Rastar Ransomware
Do you see the strange extension .rastar appended to the names of your valuable files? In such an unfortunate event you should know that the ransomware Rastar is running on your PC. It is another malicious software that has been developed with the goal to blackmail people into sponsoring hackers’ operations.
Rastar virus is known to invade computer operating systems without people being able to register any suspicious activities. Typically, ransomware threats obtain access to PCs via malicious attachments, hacked websites, torrent files, freeware installers, and fake system notifications. Once running on a PC, Rastar is able to corrupt essential system settings which will lower system security.
Afterward, the threat will reach target files to transform their code with a specific cipher algorithm. This encryption process will make files completely inaccessible. Corrupted files are those that contain the extension .rastar in their names. According to hackers, their recovery is possible only with their help. However, there is never a guarantee that they will act as they promise.
Check out more details about Rastar ransomware and find out how to remove it completely from the infected PC.
Rastar Summary
| Name | Rastar also known as FileRepMalware, Trojan.MSIL.Basic.6.Gen, HEUR:Trojan.MSIL.AntiAV.gen, ML.Attribute.HighConfidence |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that encodes valuable files with sophisticated cipher algorithm and demands a ransom fee for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .rastar extension. Hackers attempt to blackmail you into paying a ransom for a decryption tool. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Infected Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Rastar. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
Rastar Ransomware Virus
Rastar is ransomware that once started on a PC will try to bypass active security measures and complete its attack to the end. It is malicious software that has been created to pass through several different stages. This way it compromises essential system settings and encodes personal files to extort a ransom.
Rastar ransomware will apply some changes that will enable it to stay unnoticed on the system as long as possible. Like a typical ransomware, it is likely to affect the Windows Registry. Windows Registry is a hierarchical database that stores low-level settings that support the proper system performance. Malicious values may appear under specific registry keys such as Run and RunOnce in case of infection with the Rastar virus. This move will enable the ransomware to load automatically on every system start. Hence, it will encode newly created files and keep the system vulnerable to additional malware intrusions.
The spread of Rastar ransomware payload files is likely to happen via different mechanisms including spam emails with malicious attachments, hacked websites, URL addresses to these websites, cracks, software keys, and various free programs.
Once the encryption stage is a fact, Rastar ransomware will activate a specially crafted cipher module that will scan system drives for target files and encodes them with a strong encryption algorithm. Corrupted may be all of the following files:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc.
The encryption process enables the ransomware to restrict access to data stored by corrupted files. Inaccessible files will be all files that contain the extension .rastar in their names.
All nasty consequences of an infection with the Rastar virus are misused by hackers. They will try to blackmail you into contacting them and paying them a ransom fee for a decryption tool that will supposedly recover .rastar files. However, they are cybercriminals in the first place. Don’t forget it. They may say many things but no one can ever be sure that they will act as promised.
The nasty message left by Rastar ransomware can be read in a file called HOW_TO_DECYPHER_FILES.txt. This file will appear somewhere on the system at the end of the attack. Here is a copy of its content:
What Happen to my computer?
Your important files are encrypted. Many of your documents, photos, passwords, databases and other files are no longer accessible because they have been encrypted. Maybe you are busy looking for way to recover your files , but do not waste your time. Nobody can recover your files without our decryption KEY (if somebody will tell that they can do it, they will also contact me and I will make the price so much expensive than if you contact directly)
– Can i Recover My Files?
Sure. We guarantee that you can recover all your files safely and easily But You have not so enough time . So If you want to decrypt all your files, you need to pay . You only have 12H to submit the payment. After that price will be higher also, If the transaction is not completed within 24 hours your files will be permanently deleted.
Send e-mail to this address: datarecovery@asiarecovery.irYou have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins.
How to obtain Bitcoins
How To buy bitcoins hxxps://buy.bitcoin.com/
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
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.Key Identifier:
Although hackers claim that you will receive an efficient decryption tool for .rastar files, we recommend that you avoid paying them the ransom. There is no guarantee that their tool will be able to decrypt encoded files. It may leave them as broken as they are or even make them completely irreparable. What we advise is to back up your .rastar files to an external drive and wait until hackers release a free decryption tool for this ransomware threat. Once you ensure that you have copies of corrupted files you can attempt to restore some of the files on the system by using alternative techniques and tools. Find out about them in the guide that follows.
Remove Rastar Ransomware Virus
Rastar ransomware is a threat with highly complex code designed to corrupt both system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your infected system in a secure manner again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For this purpose, you could use our removal guide that reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step. In addition, the steps below will present you with several alternative data recovery approaches that may be helpful in attempting to restore files encrypted by Scarab Rastar ransomware. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
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 Rastar with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Rastar 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 Rastar 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 Rastar 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 Rastar
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Rastar.
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 Rastar 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.
Rastar-FAQ
What is Rastar Ransomware?
Rastar 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 Rastar 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 Rastar Infect?
Via several ways.Rastar 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 Rastar 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 .Rastar files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Rastar 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 .Rastar files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Rastar" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Rastar 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 Rastar 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 Rastar ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Rastar 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 Rastar 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 Rastar Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Rastar 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 Rastar 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.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
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