The Ssimpotashka@gmail.com Virus virus is a new version of the Scarab ransomware family. It has been detected in an ongoing attack that carries the new versions. Like the previous versions it is capable of inflicting much damage to the victim hosts.
Threat Summary
| Name | Ssimpotashka@gmail.com |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .recme 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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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Ssimpotashka@gmail.com. |
| 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. |
Ssimpotashka@gmail.com Virus Virus – Distribution Ways
The Ssimpotashka@gmail.com virus as a new strain of the Scarab ransomware family uses the same delivery tactics as its previous versions. This indicates that various hackers and groups are heavily utilizing the main source code to create their own versions of the ransomware.
A main delivery tactic is the use of email SPAM messages utilizing various social engineering tactics. The hackers attempt to impersonate well-known companies and services by sending the ransomware files either attached directly or hyperlinked in the body contents. They are also one of the top choices for distributing infected payloads. There are two main types that are the most common:
- Application Installers — The virus code can be embedded in software installers of popular applications. The hackers typically choose programs that are popular with the common users: creativity apps, productivity software and system utilities.
- Documents — A similar strategy can be used to manipulate documents of various types: rich text documents, spreadsheets, presentations or databases. Once they are opened by the victims a notification prompt will appear asking them to enable the built-in scripts (macros). When this is done the infection follows.
The criminals can also construct fake download portals where they can upload the dangerous samples. They typically imitate well-known sites and services by hijacking their design, images and other associated web elements. The hackers can also utilize similar sounding domain names to further confuse the users.
The hackers can spread the Ssimpotashka@gmail.com virus using browser hijackers, they represent malicious web browser plugins that are usually spread on the relevant plugin repositories. The operators use fake credentials and user reviews, along with an elaborate description. They are developed for the most popular web browsers: Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Opera, Safari, Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer.
Ssimpotashka@gmail.com Virus Virus – In-Depth Analysis
Ssimpotashka@gmail.com virus is detected to be the newest strain of the Scarab ransomware family. The code similarities showcase that an individual hacker or group have taken the main source code and modified it according to the intended targets. Instead of using a regular virus release name they have opted to name the threat using the contact e-mail address.
The initial security analysis reveals that the main engine is capable of launching several components against the infected hosts in a predefined sequence. The first action that is done against the target machines is the data harvesting one. It can harvest sensitive information belonging to the users that is classified into two main types:
- Private Data — This type of data can reveal the user’s identity by looking our for strings such as their name, address, telephone number, location, interests and etc.
- Campaign Metrics — Another set of information can be gathered about the victim systems that is used by the hacker operators to optimize their attack campaigns. The collected data might include the chosen regional settings, certain operating system values and a report of all installed hardware components.
All of the collected information can be forwarded to the next module, part of the virus sequence. It is called stealth protection and is intended to look out for processes that can interrupt the virus processes. The list includes anti-virus programs, sandbox environments and virtual machine hosts.
Like other advanced viruses it can also create a hacker-controlled server connection to a malicious server. It can be used to spy on the victims in real time, as well as take over control of their machines. This connection can also be used to deploy additional threats.
The Ssimpotashka@gmail.com virus can continue with system manipulation of the infected hosts. Examles actions include the modification and creation of new entries to the Windows Registry. If the malicious engine changes any entries that belong to the operating system, then this may lead to overall performance issues. When the actions are done against specific user-installed applications then certain funcctions can be disabled. This component is related to the persistent state of execution action. This makes the virus run every time the computer boots by creating entries for it. To make user recovery difficult it disables access to the boot recovery menu and may hinder other Windows options as well.
It is believed that the current versions of the Scarab ransomware family, including the Ssimpotashka@gmail.com virus are being created in a RaaS (ransomware as a service) scenario. This means that a certain individual or group holds the source code and offers customization options in underground sales.
To make data recovery more difficult the engine can remove the identified Shadow Volume Copies of sensitive copies. This renders file recovery possible only with a professional-grade, refer to our instructions for more information.
The fact that the virus continues to proliferate gives security researchers reasons to believe that the attacks will continue with further versions. Each subsequent version might include a code change that will incrementally make Scarab more complex. The modular engine identified in its code can be continuously upgraded to induce various system changes.
Ssimpotashka@gmail.com Virus Virus -Encryption
Once all built-in commands have finished execution the ransomware engine will be started. Like previous Scarab ransomware strains the Ssimpotashka@gmail.com virus it uses a strong cipher in combination with a built-in list of target file data. It may include any of the following:
- Images
- Music
- Videos
- Documents
- Archives
- Backups
- Databases
All target data is encrypted with a strong cipher and renamed with the .ssimpotashka@gmail.com extension. The ransomware note is created in a HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT which reads the following:
YOU FILES WAS ENCRYPTED
YOURS PERSONAL IDENTIFICATOR
[random characters] [WHAT HAPPENED] Your important files produced on this computer have been encrypted due a security problem
If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail: ssimpotashka@gmail.com
You have to pay for decryption. The price depends on how fast you write to us.
After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
[FREE DECRYPTION AS GUARANTEE] Before paying you can send to us up to 3 files for free decryption.
Please note that files must NOT contain valuable information
and their total size must be less than 1Mb
[ATTENTION] Do not rename encrypted files
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss
If you not write on e-mail in 2 day – your key has been deleted and you cant decrypt your files
Remove Scarab Ransomware Virus and Restore .ssimpotashka@gmail.com Files
If your computer got infected with the Scarab Ransomware 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Ssimpotashka@gmail.com.
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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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.
Ssimpotashka@gmail.com-FAQ
What is Ssimpotashka@gmail.com Ransomware?
Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com Infect?
Via several ways.Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 .Ssimpotashka@gmail.com files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 .Ssimpotashka@gmail.com files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Ssimpotashka@gmail.com" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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 Ssimpotashka@gmail.com 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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