New ransomware virus, named UnblockUPC has been detected by malware researchers to encrypt files with AES-128 encryption and ask 0.18 BitCoins as ransom money. The virus infects computers via different methods, such as e-mail spam after which uses the abovementioned cipher to encrypt the files on it. UnblockUPC also adds the enc prefix on the file names after it encrypts them. In addition tot his it also adds a screenlock that has a ransom note that acuses the user of downloading illegal files from the web and asking to pay a ransom payoff to restore access to the files. Malware researchers strongly suggest against paying the ransom money to cyber-criminals and to focus on restoring the files using alternative methods, like the ones in the removal manual below, while researchers discover a decryption solution.
Threat Summary
| Name | UnblockUPC |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files with encryption cipher and asks a ransom payment of 0.18 BTC for decryption. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted with AES-128 bit encryption and become inaccessible with an added “enc” suffix to their names. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a screenlock and “Files Encrypted.txt and uid.txt” files appear with similar instructions as well. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
| Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss UnblockUPC Ransomware. |
| 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. |
UnblockUPC Ransomware – How Does It Infect
To cause a successful infection, the UnblockUPC virus may use a combination of different tools and methods with techniques that may cause an unnoticed slithering onto a victim computer. Such tools may be:
- Exploit Kits.
- Spam bots.
- Malware obfuscators.
- Malicious JavaScript.
- File Joiners.
- Disposable mail service.
Such tools may allow the malware to be spread in various forms, main of which is via having the UnblockUPC”s malicious executable sent to a user via e-mail as an attachment that seems to be legitimate. Usually most spam messages may include several different notifications such as:
- “ Open this invoice.”
- “ Please see the attachment below.”
- “ Your purchase is complete. See delivery details below.”
Such deceitful messages often get users to open the e-mail attachment, and that is the main goal of the cyber-criminals behind UnblockUPC ransomware.
Another method of having this virus infect a given PC is by letting users download it by themselves via torrents, just like the the RAUM tool. Some even report that hackers have hacked accounts of torrent uploaders with a good reputation to conceal malware disguised as a legitimate torrent, like a game or useful software.
There are many methods by which UnblockUPC can spread, but the most likely technique may be via e-mail since 70% of ransomware viruses use this strategy simply because it is effective.
UnblockUPC Ransomware – In-Depth Analysis
As soon as this virus has infected your computer, UnblockUPC may connect to the cyber-criminals command server after which download from there all the malicious files of the virus on the infected computer. The virus targets the following folders and drops the following files:
→ In the %AppData% directory:
Local\Temp\{File with random letters and digits}
Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\einfo.exe
Roaming\uid.txt
Local\Temp\einfo.exe
In the %UserProfile% directory:
Desktop\decryptor.exe
Desktop\uid.txt
Desktop\Files encrypted.txt
Documents\Files encrypted.txt
Documents\decryptor.exe
Documents\uid.txt
In %ProgramData%:
uid.txt
encfiles.log
encinfor.jpg
uid.txt
{random characters}.dat
Besides those files, UnblockUPC ransomware may create many other files as well, such as multiple copies of the Files encrypted.txt and uid.txt ransom notes.
Before encrypting the files of the victim PC, the UnblockUPC virus may automatically start the einfo.exe file, which may be the encryptor, since this file is reported to self-delete after encryption. The UnblockUPC virus looks for a wide variety of pre-programmed in it’s code file extensions. If detected, they are encrypted with the strong AES -128-bit encryption algorithm. UnblockUPC targets primarily widely used types of files to encipher, like:
- Videos.
- Audio files.
- Image files.
- Microsoft Office files.
- Adobe files.
- Other files associated with widely used programs.
According to the malware researchers Demonslay335 and Grinler, the virus is also reported to add the ENC prefix to the enciphered files, for example:
→encNew Text Document.txt
Files that have been encrypted by UnblockUPC ransomware can no longer be opened with any type of software, except if the user pays the 0.18 BTC ransom money, according to the “ Files encrypted.txt” ransom note:
→“ You used to download illegal files from the internet. Now all of your private files has been locked and encrypted!
To unblock them visit one of these websites:
https://unblockupc.xyz
https://unblockupc.in
https://unblockupc.club
https://moscovravir.ru
https://213.167.243.215
https://185.45.192.17
Your UID: {Unique identifier}”
The UnblockUPC virus also adds a wallpaper-like image with the following notification:
→ Here you can unblock your files
You probably used to download illegal files from the internet…
Well, that’s why we encrypted all your private files on your computer.
But fortunately, you can unblock the for just… ~100 EURO (0.18 BTC)
I know, you probably don’t want to pay but believe me, its pretty good opportunity for you. We had access to all your private files, your email, Facebook, bank account, sometimes credit cards… And we only decided to encrypt your files and get 100 euros, we are not so bad!
There is no other way to unlock your files than paying us. If you want to do this, follow these steps:
1. First of all, we need to know your UID; it is your unique identification number; your unlock password is connected with these uid. It is located in uid.txt file on your Desktop or in My Documents/Documents folder.
2. Now you need to put your UID below, and press submit
This page will only work until {date} so better hurry up.
After {date} you won’t be able to unlock your files.” Source: Infected Users
UnblockUPC Ransomware – Conclusion
As a bottom line, the UnblockUPC Ransomware is a threat that is no joke, and it should be taken very seriously. Malware researchers are constantly working on developing free decryptors by reverse engineering malware samples like the once from UnblockUPC. This is the main reason why it is advisable not to pay the decryption fee to cyber-crooks and deal with the files and the virus yourself.
To remove UnblockUPC ransomware, it is recommended to follow the removal instructions below. They are divided in Manual and Automatic and if you are not tech savvy we recommend using the Automatic instructions because they will help you remove UnblockUPC completely at a click of a button.
To try and restore your files, we strongly suggest waiting until a decryptor for UnblockUPC has been released for your computer. Until then, you are welcome to try the not as effective alternative decryption and file restoration tools in step “2. Restore files encrypted by UnblockUPC” below.
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 UnblockUPC with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by UnblockUPC.
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 UnblockUPC 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.
UnblockUPC-FAQ
What is UnblockUPC Ransomware?
UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC Infect?
Via several ways.UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC 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 .UnblockUPC files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .UnblockUPC 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 .UnblockUPC files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".UnblockUPC" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this UnblockUPC 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 UnblockUPC 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.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
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