PROM Ransomware
A computer virus called PROM has been detected in the wild. The malicious proagram is programed to plague computer systems so that it can lock personal files and extort a ransom fee from victims. By encrypting personal files, the PROM ransomware prevents people from viewing their conent. A sure sign that a file is encoded by PROM is the strange extension .PROM[prometheushelp@mail.ch] appended to its original name.
The decryption of .PROM files is possible with the help of special tool possesed by hackers. More infroamtion about this tool and how to obtain it is presented by the PROM ransom note. Such a note could be found stored by two files with identical names but different types – RESTORE_FILES_INFO.hta and RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt. Beware that a ransom payment provides no guarantee that hackers will send a working decryption tool.
PROM Virus Summary
| Name | PROM also known as Malware/Win32.RL_Generic.C4339857, Gen:Heur.MSIL.Bladabindi.1 (B), |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts target files stored on infected computers, marks them with the .PROM suffix. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encoded. You cannot open them. Hackers demand a ransom payment. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Infected Installers |
| Detection Tool |
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PROM Virus – Distribution and Impact
PROM virus – a nasty ransomware that corrupts computer operating systems. A payload file need to be executed on a computer system for the PROM virus infection to begin. During the attack flow, the ransomware applies malicious changes that ruin the overall PC security and leave the system extremely vulnerable to additional malware attacks.
Once running on a system, the PROM ransomware may allow hackers to establish a remote connection which, in turn, could help them install additional malware. In addition, the threat could corrupt the Registry Editor to set its automatic execution on every system start.
As regards the propagation of devastating threats like PROM, it tends to happen via mechanisms like email attachments, fake download buttons displayed on shady sites, URL links to corrupted sites, torrent files, freeware installers, and malicious advertisements.
An infection with PROM ransomware may prevent you from opening the following types of files:
- Audio files;
- Video files;
- Document files;
- Image files;
- Backup files;
- Banking credentials, etc.
Since the virus encrypts them with a complex cipher algorithm, you won’t be able to open them with none of the programs installed on the PC. Files encrypted by this cryptovirus could easily be spotted as they all receive the extension .PROM[prometheushelp@mail.ch].
Similar to almost all data locking ransomware, including the recently detected Hard, Optimus and Enfp, PROM has its ransom notes that it displays at the end of the attack.
Its ransom messages RESTORE_FILES_INFO.hta and RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt inform victims about the impact the ransomware caused over the system and requests the completion of several steps. The instructions urge victims to contact hackers so that the latter could send more details about a ransom payment process. The ransom is demanded for a special decryption tool that is supposedly capable of restoring .PROM files.
And here is what the text ransom message states:
You are not able to decrypt it by yourself! The only method of recovering files is to purchase an unique private key.
Only we can give you this key and only we can recover your files.We recommend you upload 3 encrypted files in hxxps://privatlab.com/file and paste link to you message. We will demonstrate that we can recover your files.
* Please note that files must not contain any valuable information.Do you really want to restore your files?
1) Using a TOR browser!
a) Download and install TOR browser from this site: hxxps://torproject.org/
b) Open website: hxxp://sonarmsniko2lvfu.onion/?a=reg
c) Register account
d) Click Compose and write to us, our username: Prometheus, in message write Your Key Identifier (it is at the end of file)2) Using a email
Write to 3 emails address at once, in message write Your Key Identifier (it is at the end of file) :
prometheushelp@mail.ch
prometheushelp@airmail.cc
Prometheus.help@protonmail.chWe recommend using 1 method via TOR browser to contact us.
Email letters may not reach us. Therefore, if you do not receive a response within 12 hours, please use method 1.* Do not rename encrypted files.
* Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
* Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
*For our safety, all information about your server and your decryption key will be automaticaly DELETED AFTER 7 DAYS! You will irrevocably lose all your data!Key Identifier:
–
We remind all PROM virus victims who want to pay the hefty ransom that they rely on cybercriminals’ honesty. And there are quite a lot of ransomware victims who have never received a decryption tool after they transferred the demanded ransom to hackers. Furthermore, there is always a possibility that the decryption tool will be broken and inefficient.
Our advice is to consider the help of alternative data recovery methods once you remove this ransomware from your infected PC.
Remove PROM Virus and Try to Restore Data
The so-called PROM virus is a threat with highly complex code that plagues the whole system in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after the complete removal of all malicious files and objects created by PROM ransomware. That’s why we recommend that all steps presented in the removal guide below should be completed for the sake of your system and data security. Beware that a manual ransomware removal approach is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for PROM Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall PROM Virus and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by PROM Virus on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by PROM Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove PROM Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by PROM Virus.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and PROM Virus aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
PROM Virus-FAQ
What is PROM Virus Ransomware?
PROM Virus is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does PROM Virus Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does PROM Virus Infect?
Via several ways.PROM Virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of PROM Virus is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .PROM Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .PROM Virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .PROM Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".PROM Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .PROM Virus files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of PROM Virus Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate PROM Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .PROM Virus files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can PROM Virus Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the PROM Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this PROM Virus how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the PROM Virus ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
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