WhiteHorse Ransomware Virus
The name WhiteHorse is associated with a data locker ransomware that encodes personal files to demand a hefty ransom fee for their decryption. When this ransomware land on your PC you may not notice it. The moment you spot it may be the end of the attack. Then it drops a ransom message to inform victims about its presence and instruct them on how hackers expect them to act further.
Read this article to learn how to get rid of malicious files installed by WhiteHorse ransomware and how to potentially restore files without paying the ransom.
WhiteHorse Summary
Name | WhiteHorse also known as HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic (Kaspersky), Ransom:Win32/GarrantDecrypt.PA!MTB (Microsoft), Ransom_GarrantDecrypt.R002C0DJN21 (TrendMicro) |
File Extensions | .WhiteHorse |
Ransom Demanding Note | #Decrypt#.txt |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .WhiteHorse extension to them. Cybercriminals force you to contact them and pay a hefty ransom. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Torrent Files/Networks |
Detection Tool |
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WhiteHorse Ransomware Virus – More Information
WhiteHorse is a new dangerous computer virus discovered by security experts. Such viruses tend to be spread by the use of different tactics. This includes infected virus carriers such as application installers of widely used programs, infected email attachments, and corrupted files uploaded to shady sites.
One thing is almost sure, malware infections will happen unnoticeably and automatically in the background of all other running apps. As soon as it runs its malicious files on a computer system, the WhiteHorse virus will initiate built-in commands that can gather personal user’s information like system OS version, and certain other operating system parameters.
WhiteHorse virus strains could be particularly dangerous as they can be programmed to carry out other system changes that diminish the overall security and leave the system extremely vulnerable to additional malware attacks. Therefore, the virus could be very difficult to remove manually. The use of a quality anti-malware tool is the most secure way to secure your PC.
Only when the ransomware completes the initial infection stages, it can run its data encryption module. That module completes encryption of list of target file types – archives, backups, documents, and multimedia files. The strong cipher will leave them inaccessible and renamed with the .WhiteHorse extension.
Victims will then be extorted to pay for a decryption tool. The text file #Decrypt#.txt will be dropped for the extortion. Its content reads:
Hello my dear friend
Unfortunately for you, a major IT security weakness left you open to attack, your files have been encrypted
If you want to restore them, install ICQ software on your PC hxxps://icq.com/windows/ or on your mobile phone search in Appstore / Google market ICQ
Write to our ICQ @Whitehorsedecryption
hxxps://icq.im/Whitehorsedecryption
Skype Whitehorsedecryption
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
We are always ready to cooperate and find the best way to solve your problem.
The faster you write, the more favorable the conditions will be for you.
Our company values its reputation. We give all guarantees of your files decryption
IF WE DONT SEE MESSAGES FROM YOU IN 72 HOURS – WE WILL SELL YOUR DATABASES AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO YOUR COMPETITORS,AFTER YOU WILL SEE IT AT OPEN SOURCE AND DARKNET
tell your unique ID
Following hackers’ demands is highly inadvisable. Instead, you could check out the ransomware removal guide below and start fixing the problem securely.
Remove WhiteHorse Virus – Try Restoring Files
In order to Remove WhiteHorse ransomware, we strongly recommend that you read the instructions in this article. Experts suggest that the best way towards fully erasing Viper Virus is to follow the removal steps that are underneath in combination with downloading an advanced malware removal tool. Such software will scan your computer for any malware and make sure that it’s fully gone from it.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for WhiteHorse with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall WhiteHorse 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 WhiteHorse
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by WhiteHorse.
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 WhiteHorse 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.
WhiteHorse-FAQ
What is WhiteHorse Ransomware?
WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse Infect?
Via several ways.WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse 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 .WhiteHorse files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .WhiteHorse 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 .WhiteHorse files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".WhiteHorse" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this WhiteHorse 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 WhiteHorse 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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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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