What is .rtf files virus? How did it infect your system? How to remove .rtf virus? Is there a chance to restore .rtf files?
The extension .rtf is associated with a data locker ransomware dubbed MegaCortex. This threat infiltrates computer systems with the goal to corrupt valuable files and extort ransom fee from affected users. Once executed on a target machine .rtf files virus drops additional malicious files and starts loading them in a predefined order. By doing this the ransomware interferes with essential system settings and becomes able to perform data encryption process without being detected by active security measures. Finally, .rtf virus drops a file that contains a ransom message.
For the sake of your security, we recommend that you avoid negotiating with cybercriminals. Кeep up with our removal guide to find how to get rid of malicious entries and attempt to restore encrypted .rtf files.
Threat Summary
| Name | .rtf Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Severe malware that is designed to encrypt valualbe files stored on compromised computers so that it can then extort ransom fee from victims. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted and renamed with .rtf file extension. Ransom message extorts a payment for files recovery. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .rtf Virus. |
| 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. |
.rtf Files Virus (MegaCortex Ransomware) — MegaCortex V3 Released
A security report indicates that a new release of the Mega Cortex ransomware has been released in the wild. According to the available information this is a new version which is distinct from the previous ones. It is very possible that a new hacking group is behind it. Changes in the functionality can also be presented.
Common virus modules may be run and initiated based on the local machine conditions or specific hacker instructions. Advanced versions of such viruses will typically change important settings that can be either in the system’s base configuration files or the Windows Registry. Such changes can lead to very serious problems when using the computer in the ordinary way.
Contaminated machines might have their data stolen by running a built-in Trojan component which will establish a persistent connection to a hacker-controlled server and allow the criminals to overtake control of the computers. This will also include data theft and further issues for the victim users.
This new MegaCortex virus will mark the files that are to be processed with an unique identifier. It is probably made using data gathered by the information extracting module component. Two of the most common types of data that are hijacked include the following:
- Personal Information — The virus can acquire data that can reveal the information about users revealing their identity and potentially using it to cause other crimes.
- Machine Information — This will include a list of the installed hardware components.
.rtf Files Virus (MegaCortex Ransomware) – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
The name .rtf files virus is given to a ransomware that encodes personal files, locks them with the extension .rtf and demands a ransom fee for their recovery. Security researchers recognize it as a strain of MegaCortex ransomware. This variant is the third in a roll and like its predecessors, it causes serious damage to computers it infects.
As soon as the payload of MegaCortex v3 is dropped into the target systems the main module of the ransomware will be automatically started. This particular ransomware is designed to infect other hosts that are available on the local network. This is made possible by first running an security bypass function — the ransomware will identify if there are any installed and running software that may block the proper functioning of the .rtf files virus:
- Anti-Virus Engines
- Firewalls
- Intrusion Detection Software
- Virtual Machine Hosts and Debug/Programmer Environments
What’s more dangerous is that this updated MegaCortex ransomware version 3 can be programmed to execute a variety of other threats, especially in this case when it is directed against enterprise users.
The most likely method used for the spread of .rtf files virus is malspam. Malspam is called to spam email messages that attempt to deliver malicious software on computer systems. Such email messages are characterized by several distinctive marks. They often pose as representatives of well-known companies. Usually, contain file attachments and clickable URLs addresses. And their messages require immediate action.
The moment the attached file is opened on a target machine computer or the link is loaded in an Internet-connected browser the malicious .rtf virus payload triggers the attack with this nasty ransomware.
Once .rtf files virus applies preliminary malicious modifications it becomes able to activate a built-in cipher module by which it sets the beginning of the data encryption process. During this stage of the attack, .rtf crypto virus scans all system drives for target files and transforms their code with the help of sophisticated encryption algorithm. Unfortunately, the encryption process corrupts valuable files and limits the access to their data. Here is a list of all files that may be encrypted:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
As soon as the ransomware transforms the original code of a target file, it appends the .rtf extension to its name and leaves it completely inaccessible.
When .rtf ransomware finishes the completion of malicious modifications and data corruption, it displays a ransom message on the screen. Here is what this message states:
Your companies network has been breached and infected with MegaCortex Malware.
We ensure that the only way to retrieve your data swiftly and securely is with our software.
Restoration of your data requires a private key which only we possess.
Don’t waste your time and money purchasing third party software, without the private key they are useless.
To confirm that our decryption software works email to us 2 files from random computers.
You will receive further instructions after you send us the test files.
After receiving payment we will provide you decryptor including it full source code and necessary assistance if needed.
We know that you need to restore .rtf files but be advised to refrain from transferring your money to cybercriminals. For the sake of your security, we recommend you to clean your computer from present malicious files and consider the help of alternative data recovery methods.
Remove .rtf Files Virus (MegaCortex Ransomware) and Restore Data
The so-called .rtf files virus is a threat with highly complex code that heavily damages both essential system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your infected system securely again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For the purpose, you could follow our step-by-step removal guide.
In the event that you want to attempt to restore .rtf files with the help of alternative data recovery methods, check step five – Try to Restore files encrypted by .rtf Virus. 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 .rtf Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .rtf 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 .rtf 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 .rtf 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 .rtf Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .rtf 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 .rtf 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.
.rtf Virus-FAQ
What is .rtf Virus Ransomware?
.rtf 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 .rtf 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 .rtf Virus Infect?
Via several ways..rtf 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 .rtf 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 ..rtf Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..rtf 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 ..rtf Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..rtf Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..rtf 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 .rtf 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 .rtf Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..rtf 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 .rtf 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 .rtf Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .rtf 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 .rtf 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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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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