This article has been created in order to help you by explaining how to remove XiaoBa Virus virus from your computer system and how to restore .XiaBa encrypted files.
The XiaoBa virus is a newly discovered sample of the malware family. The security analysis shows that the new customized version uses a new ransomware extension — .Encrypted[BaYuCheng@yeah.net].XiaBa.
Threat Summary
| Name | XiaoBa |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The main goal of the XiaoBa Virus is to encrypt sensitive user files and extort the victims for a ransom fee payment. |
| Symptoms | The XiaoBa Virus component processes target files and renames them with the .XiaBa extension. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| 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 XiaoBa. |
| 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. |
XiaoBa Virus – Infection Process
The new samples originating from the XiaoBa ransomware family are delivered using the same mechanics as the original threat. The hackers behind the active attack campaigns may be leveraging different strategies at once in order to increase the infections ratio.
Some of the primary methods used by the hackers depend on the sending of email messages that contain social engineering tricks. They attempt to coerce the target users into interacting with the malware element either by embedding them as file attachments or inserting malware hyperlinks. The malware samples are usually disguised as files of user interest and the hackers can utilize various tactics that emulate legitimate user activities. An example is the archiving of files in password-protected data. The passwords are often listed in the body contents of the messages themselves.
Two other methods used by the criminals in connection with these strategies include the use of infected documents as payload delivery mechanisms. The hackers behind the XiaoBa virus can create documents of various types which includes the malware code: presentations, spreadsheets and rich text documents. Once they are opened by the victims a notification prompt is spawned which asks the users to enable the built-in scripts (macros). If this is done then the virus is downloaded from a hacker-controlled site and downloaded onto the target machine.
Another tactic relies on the creation and spread of malware software installers. They are made by taking the legitimate installers and modifying them to include the dangerous XiaoBa ransomware. The usual suspects are popular free and trial versions of software that are likely to be wanted by the computer users. The criminals can also make use of browser hijackers that represent malware browser plugins that are usually spread on the browser extension repositories. The dangerous code is usually made compatible with the most popular web browsers: Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Safari, Microsoft Edge and Safari. Once installed they change important parameters to redirect the victims to a hacker-controlled page and also infect the target users with the virus code.
As usual viruses like the XiaoBa ransomware can also be distributed on hacker-controlled download sites and file sharing networks like BitTorrent.
XiaoBa Virus – Analysis and Activity
The new strains associated with the XiaoBa virus family continue to follow the basic infection patterns. One of the most important aspects of the malware family is the fact that it includes a stealth protection module that can actively hide itself from security software and analysis. Advanced virus strains can scan the compromised machines for running instances of programs that can interfere with its execution and bypass or altogether stop them. The list includes anti-virus products, sandbox and debugging environments and virtual machine hosts.
Using the information gathering built-in module the criminals can also harvest all kinds of data from the compromised machines. The information is usually classified into two main groups:
- Anonymous Data — The gathered data is made up of information regarding the hardware components and certain operating system settings.
- Sensitive Private Data — This type of information is made up of harvested data about the victims itself that can directly expose their identity: name, address, telephone number, preferences and account credentials.
Any follow-up steps can include various system changes that can negatively impact the compromised computer. They can impact the boot options which in turn can prevent access to the recovery menu used by the victims to amend their machines. Changes to the Windows Registry can impact important operating system services and user applications. Such actions can be connected to the persistent type of installation performed by the malware engine. This makes it very difficult for the users to remove it using manual methods.
The XiaoBa virus has also been found to infiltrate the target devices with the CoinHive miner. This is a dangerous malware that is loaded into memory and uses the available hardware resources for complex operations called “mining” that result in income generation for the hacker operators. This particular version uses a Monero-based instance which is loaded into all files with the HTML and HTM file type extensions. Once they are opened by the users the dangerous code will be automatically launched. Follow-up strains can also include other related cryptocurrency miners with both 32 and 64-bit versions. The correct payload is chosen automatically by the malware engine based on the harvested machine information.
Its important to note that any network connections made with the hacker-controlled servers can be used to harvest the gathered information. The criminals can also opt to use it to send additional malware to the victim hosts. Such connections can also be used to institute control of the victim computers in a manner similar to Trojan viruses.
XiaoBa Virus — Encryption Process
Once all components have finished execution the ransomware component is started. The XiaoBa virus uses a list of target built-in extensions. Previous samples targeted the following data:
.3gp, .7z, .apk, .avi, .bmp, .cdr, .cer, .chm, .conf, .css, .csv, .dat, .db, .dbf, .djvu, .dbx,
.docm, ,doc, .epub, .docx .fb2, .flv, .gif, .gz, .iso .ibooks,.jpeg, .jpg, .key, .mdb .md2, .mdf,
.mht, .mobi .mhtm, .mkv, .mov, .mp3, .mp4, .mpg .mpeg, .pict, .pdf, .pps, .pkg, .png, .ppt .pptx,
.ppsx, .psd, .rar, .rtf, .scr, .swf, .sav, .tiff, .tif, .tbl, .torrent, .txt, .vsd, .wmv, .xls, .xlsx,
.xps, .xml, .ckp, .zip, .java, .py, .asm, .c, .cpp, .cs, .js, .php, .dacpac, .rbw, .rb, .mrg, .dcx,
.db3, .sql, .sqlite3, .sqlite, .sqlitedb, .psd, .psp, .pdb, .dxf, .dwg, .drw, .casb, .ccp, .cal, .cmx,
.cr2.
All affected data is renamed with a new and rather long extension — .Encrypted[BaYuCheng@yeah.net].XiaBa.
The ransom note is produced in an application frame that is similar to the lockscreens used by many similar malware families. The window is titled “BaYuCheng@yeah.net” and reads the following message:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your fles have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail BaYiCheng@yeah.net
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. 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 us up to 5 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 10 Mb (non-archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases, backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins:
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, ans select the seller by payment method and price.
https://localbitcoins.net/buy bitcoinsAlso you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
The analysts note that a script also plays an automated voice over of the ransom note to further pressure the victims.
How to Remove XiaoBa Virus and Restore .XiaBa Encrypted Files
In order to make sure that this malware is permanently gone from your computer, you should follow the manual or automatic removal instructions down below. If you have the experience in removing ransomware manually, we advise you to focus on the first 2 steps from the manual removal and to look for the registry files which we have explained in the analysis part above. Otherwise, if you want a more automatic and faster solution and lack the expertise in malware removal, we urge you to download an advanced anti-malware program, which aims to automatically perform the removal operation of XiaoBa ransomware and secures your computer against future infections in real-time.
If you want to restore files that have been encrypted by this ransomware infection, we advise you to try out the alternative tools for file recovery down below in step “2. Restore files encrypted by .XiaBa Files Virus”. They may not guarantee fully that you will recover all of the files, but if you haven’t reinstalled your OS already, there is a good chance that you might just restore them.
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 XiaoBa with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by XiaoBa.
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 XiaoBa 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.
XiaoBa-FAQ
What is XiaoBa Ransomware?
XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa Infect?
Via several ways.XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa 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 .XiaoBa files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .XiaoBa 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 .XiaoBa files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".XiaoBa" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this XiaoBa 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 XiaoBa 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.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.