The ShutUpAndDance Virus is a basic ransomware strain of the Hidden Tear family. The security analysis shows that this is the initial release of the threat, future updates are expected in coordinated attacks. Our article provides an overview of the virus operations and it also may be helpful in attempting to remove the virus.
Threat Summary
| Name | ShutUpAndDance Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .ShutUpAndDance extensions and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss ShutUpAndDance 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. |
ShutUpAndDance Virus – Distribution Ways
As soon as the ShutUpAndDance virus infection begins the main module will start to run its prescribed behavior pattern. The security investigation reveals that it is based on the Hidden Tear ransowmare family. As such its behavior can be fine tuned according to each target campaign.
The ShutUpAndDance virus has been captured in a limited attack campaign targeting mainly English-speaking computer users. We anticipate that in future attacks the hackers behind it will utilize a whole array of infection tactics.
A common way to spread this threat is to send out phishing email messages. They are designed to intentionally confuse the users into thinking that they have received a message from a well-known company or a service that they use. They can either attach the virus files or link them in the body of the emails.
A similar technique is the use of malicious download sites that attempt to mimic legitimate download portals. Along with the email messages they are among the most popular ways of spreading infected payloads of which there are two main types:
- Malicious Setup Files — The criminals can include the ShutUpAndDance virus in installers of popular software. This is done by taking the original files from the official vendor sites and bundling the malicious code into them. The hackers typically choose popular user choices — system utilities, productivity applications or creativity suites.
- Documents — A similar technique can be used with document files: text files, spreadsheets, presentations and databases. Once they are opened by the users a notification prompt appears which will ask them to enable the built-in scripts. If this is done the virus infection will begin.
A browser hijacker infection can be another method for deploying the threat. It relies on the creation of malicious plugins made for the most popular browsers which are then usually uploaded to the relevant repositories. The hackers can use fake developer credentials and user reviews along with a detailed description to coerce the users int installing the browser hijackers. They are called that way as they modify the default settings (home page, new tabs page and search engine) to redirect the users to a hacker-controlled page. Once this is complete the associated behavior pattern will be run which includes the virus deployment.
ShutUpAndDance Virus – In-Depth Analysis
The ShutUpAndDance virus is a new strain belonging to the Hidden Tear ransomware family. As this is one of the most popular choices for creating custom threats we presume that the hacker or criminal collective behind it are not very experienced. Hidden Tear is well-known for having a modular framework allowing all kinds of modifications.
At the moment the captured samples contain only the ransomware engine which is the simplest form of a Hidden Tear threat. Following previous strains of the same family we presume that a classic infection behavior will be implemented.
Such attacks can begin with a data harvesting module. It is programmed to look for specific strings that can be extracted from the infected system. This component can reveal the victim’s identity by looking out for strings such as their name, address, phone number, location, interests and etc. The same technique can also be used to hijack infection campaign metrics which are useful to the hackers: hardware components, user settings and certain values set by the operating system. The collected information can be used to scan the local system for any applications or services that can interfere with the proper virus execution. The component looks for signatures belonging to anti-virus programs, sandbox environments or virtual machine hosts.
Hidden Tear threats are capable of causing a wide range of system modifications. A common scenario is to program modifications to the Windows Registry — existing entries can be changed and new ones can be created. When this affects the operating system values the users can experience overall performance issues. Targeting individual services or user-installed applications can lead to the inability to use certain functions.
The ShutUpAndDance virus can be installed as a persistent threat by modifying the boot options. As a result the malicious engine will be started every the computer is powered on and access to the recovery menu will be disabled.
Advanced virus infections can also lead to the installation of a Trojan module. The classic case involves the setup of an encrypted connection to a hacker-controlled server. It is used by the criminals to spy on the victim users, take over control of their machines at any given time or deploying additional threats.
ShutUpAndDance Virus — Encryption
Like other Hidden Tear based viruses it’s main goal is to encrypt target user data based on a built-in list of file type extensions. Most common ransomware tend to target popular data such as the following:
- Archives
- Backups
- Documents
- Images
- Music
- Videos
All encrypted user data is renamed with the .ShutUpAndDance extension. The accompanying ransomware note is called READ_IT.txt and reads the following message:
WE SAW WHAT YOU DID.
YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED!
SEND US AN EMAIL FOR INSTRUCTIONS
fsocietyhelp@yandex.com
Remove ShutUpAndDance Ransomware Virus and Restore .ShutUpAndDance Files
If your computer got infected with the ShutUpAndDance ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for ShutUpAndDance Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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.
ShutUpAndDance Virus-FAQ
What is ShutUpAndDance Virus Ransomware?
ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance Virus Infect?
Via several ways.ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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 .ShutUpAndDance Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .ShutUpAndDance 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 .ShutUpAndDance Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".ShutUpAndDance Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this ShutUpAndDance 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 ShutUpAndDance 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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