This article presents more details on a ransomware infection called .UNIT09 files virus and provides a step-by-step removal guide. In the guide, you will also find several alternative date recovery methods that may be helpful while attempting to restore locked data.
Infection with the so-called .UNIT09 files virus leads to the corruption of valuable files. For the purpose, this ransomware implements plenty of significant modifications that affect regular system performance. Its presence on the system is revealed by the appearance of a ransom message which is originally stored in the file $!READ ME.txt.
Threat Summary
| Name | .UNIT09 Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A ransomware that corrupts valuable files and wipe them from the system. Insists on ransom payment. |
| Symptoms | Important files appear renamed with the extension .UNIT09. They cannot be accessed which leads to ransom extortion. |
| 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 .UNIT09 Files 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. |
.UNIT09 Files Virus – Distribution
For the spread of .UNIT09 files virus, hackers are likely to use some of the most popular techniques. Such are malspam, software installers, links to infected web pages, forums, social media channels, fake software update notifications and other.
Among all these techniques malspam is likely to be the main one. Like the majority of ransomware infections that are spread in massive email spam campaigns, .UNITE09 ransomware is also believed to be spread this way. The technique enables hackers to include ransomware’s payload in deceptive emails that pose as legitimate organizations and businesses. Components like URL addresses, in-text links, buttons, images, and file attachments are often presented in such emails as they could be all misused for the delivery of the ransomware payload.
In order to make you more prone to interact with such a component and as a result enable the ransomware to access your system, the text messages in these emails try to provoke a sense of urgency.
.UNIT09 Files Virus – Overview
Once .UNIT09 files virus manages to run its payload on a target computer system it initiates a sequence of malicious commands that support its smooth operation. Along with the payload file, the ransomware may establish a bunch of other malicious files during the infection flow. For their locations it may be designed to use some of the following system folders:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
By executing malicious files in a predefined order, the ransomware implements plenty of significant modifications that affect the regular performance of major system components. One of the affected components is likely to be the Registry Editor and more precisely the registry keys Run and RunOnce stored there.
This could be explained by the fact that these two keys have the functionality to auto-execute various system and apps related processes. So when .UNITE09 adds malicious values under them, it becomes able to manipulate their functionalities which in turn is a step that enables its automatic load on each system start. So in order to prevent the occurrence of this nasty effect you should access the following registry directories, find all malicious values and delete them:
→ 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
When.UNITE09 cryptovirs is likely to reveal its presence is at the end of the infection process. For the purpose, the threat drops a file named $!READ ME.txt and cause its automatic load. This file contains a ransom message that is likely to insist on contacting hackers in reference with a ransom payment.
Currently, the amount of files decryption ransom is not specified but what is almost sure is that hackers will want it converted in any cryptocurrency. For the sake of your security, we recommend you to avoid paying the ransom as this step does not guarantee the recovery of your corrupted files. Furthermore, as identified by security researchers, this threat acts like a wiper which means that it is impossible to recover your files. Eventually, hackers could only attempt to trick you once again and steal your money.
.UNIT09 Files Virus – Encryption Process
It is a threat composed to plague essential system settings in order to evade detection and reach the main infection stage – data encryption. So once this threat passes through all initial infection stages it activates a built-in encryption module. With the help of this module, .UNITE09 will scan probably all available drives in an attempt to locate target files and encode them one by one.
Eventually, all files that store important information could be corrupted:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Here is the full list of file extensions targeted by .UNITE09 files virus:
→
.access, .bfc, .cab, .certs, .cfg, .cgm, .chm, .cnt, .cnv, .config, .cpl, .dat, .data, .dll, .dpc, .eftx, .elm, .eps, .exe, .flt, .fnt, .gif, .hlp, .htm, .html, .inf, .its, .ja, .jar, .jfc, .jpg, .lex, .libraries, .manifest, .mid, .mml, .mmw, .mof, .msg, .msi, .mst, .pf, .png, .policy, .properties, .rll, .security, .src, .template, .thmx, .tlb, .ttf, .txt, .wav, .wmf, .wpg, .xml, .xrm-ms, .xsl
Since this ransomware appears to be a wiper, your files may be gone forever. So the best you can do is to remove all malicious files from your infected system and prevent it from further abuses.
Remove .UNIT09 Files Virus and Restore Data
The so-called .UNIT09 files virus is a threat with highly complex code designed to corrupt both system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your system in a secure manner again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For the purpose, we prepared a removal guide that reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step.
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 .UNIT09 Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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.
.UNIT09 Files Virus-FAQ
What is .UNIT09 Files Virus Ransomware?
.UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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 ..UNIT09 Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..UNIT09 Files 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 ..UNIT09 Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..UNIT09 Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .UNIT09 Files 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 .UNIT09 Files 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.
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