An unusual strain of ransomware has been reported to hit various institutions via Java exploits, experts say. One of those institutions is MedStar Health, and the hospital suffered immense losses after the ransomware struck. This was due to the abilities of Samas crypto-malware to encrypt the data with a strong encryption algorithm after which demand payment for decryption via a unique key.
Samas Ransomware – How Does It Infect
Unlike other ransom malware, Samas uses unusual encryption techniques. It is particularly sophisticated because it employs a so-called pen testing otherwise known as penetration testing via a remote server to begin the infection process. Such testing allows the cyber-criminals to discover vulnerabilities in the network of the targeted devices. Once a vulnerability is found, the ransomware may either use:
Samas Ransomware In Detail
This crypto-malware uses a combination of different viruses each one performing different activities. First, it is reported by researchers to use an infostealer called Derusbi or Bladabindi. The second tool which is used by this malware is called PsExec, and its executable psexec.exe is configured to start programs on the infected computer remotely.
Besides those tools, Samas also may use two variants of the Trojan: Samas infection. This is what appears to be a BAT(Batch file) type of Trojan which may use several commands. One of those commands is the privilege escalating vssadmin command via vssadmin.exe, for example:
→ vssadmin delete shadows /for={DrivePartition} [/oldest | /all | /shadow={Identification of the shadow copies}] [/quiet]
This type of command may be used by Samas to delete the backup of your computer after which it may start encrypting your data.
Furthermore, Samas ransomware kit downloads yet another malware on the infected user’s computer – an MSIL (Microsoft Intermediate Language) ransomware which uses a very strong encryption algorithms – the AES and RSA cyphers.
The Encryption Process
The Ransomware may look for the usual and most used file extensions to encode. The encoded files are reported to be left with an added “encrypted.RSA” file extension, for example:
→ New Text Document.txt.encrypted.RSA
Both encryption algorithms used by the ransomware (RSA and AES) which are classified to be a Suite.B encoding language, are designed for concealing top secret files. The strength of the cypher is relatively impenetrable since it would take a powerful computer tens of years to decrypt a file if it doesn’t break by then. What Samas does is that it encrypts the files using the AES encryption algorithm. After this, it generates a custom encryption key and encrypts it with the RSA encryption algorithm, similar to the graph below:
After encrypting the data, Samas leaves a custom ransom note. Users on bleeping computer report the ransom message to be in a file named “HELPDECYPRT_YOUR_FILES.html” located in each folder where files are encrypted. The ransom note is reported to be the following:
→ “#What happened to your files?
All of your important files encrypted with RSA-2048, RSA-2048 is a powerful cryptography algorithm
For more information you can use Wikipedia
*attention: Don’t rename or edit encrypted files because it will be impossible to decrypt your files
#How to recover files?
RSA is an asymmetric cryptographic algorithm You need two key
1-Public key: you need it for encryption
2-Private Key: you need it for decryption
So you need Private key to recover your files.
It’s not possible to recover your files without private key.
#How to get private key?
You can receive your Private Key in 3 easy steps:
Step1: You must send us One Bitcoin about (430$) for each affected PC to receive Private Key.
Step2: After you send us one Bitcoin, Leave a comment on our blog with these detail: Your Bitcoin transaction reference + Your Computer name
*Your Computer name is:{PC NAME}
Step3: We will reply to your comment with a decryption software, You should run it on your affected PC, and all encrypted files will be recovered
*Our blog address: key93939393.wordpress.com
*Our Bitcoin address: {Cyber crooks’ bitcoin address}”
In addition to that, this ransomware may come in different variations since researchers believe that it may be a part of a RaaS (Ransomware as a Service) scheme. This means it may be sold to anybody interested on the black market. Not only this, but researchers also reported that the cyber-crooks behind this ransomware evolve it constantly, for example, they may change the payment addresses, methods of contacting them anonymously and other details.
Remove Samas Ransomware and Restore Your Files
To remove this cyber-threat, you must identify all of the objects associated with it, whether they are files or registry sub-keys and values that are modified or newly made. To do this effectively, we advise to use the removal instructions below and neutralize this threat permanently with a particular anti-malware software.
Regarding the direct decryption of your files, there has not been a solution yet, but we will keep posting updates as soon as there is a direct solution. Meanwhile, you can try the decryptors and file restoration software as well as browse shadow copies of your PC, all of which can be downloaded from step “4. Restore files encrypted by Samas Ransomware”. These are general methods, and they may restore your important files partially.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Samas with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Samas 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 Samas 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 Samas 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 Samas
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Samas.
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 Samas 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.
Samas-FAQ
What is Samas Ransomware?
Samas 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 Samas 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 Samas Infect?
Via several ways.Samas 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 Samas 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 .Samas files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Samas 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 .Samas files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Samas" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Samas 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 Samas 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 Samas ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Samas 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 Samas 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 Samas Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Samas 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 Samas 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.
- Profile of the content creator.
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