A new ransomware, or more likely, a new version of a well-known ransomware, is currently using an encryption algorithm even stronger than RSA-2048. The ransomware piece claims to have employed RSA-4096. Unfortunately, one of our own users has contacted us saying that he has found a ransomware message in all of his folders, claiming that files were encrypted via RSA-4096. You can read the message in the article body.
As you will notice, the ransomware actors have embraced a more aggressive approach. Not only are they using stronger encryption that may take hundreds of years to decrypt, but they have become more hostile in their attitude towards victims. Appetite comes with eating, doesn’t it?
So, what is RSA-4096 encryption?
As we just said, this particular RSA encryption is much stronger than RSA-2048. According to security experts, the process of deciphering files encrypted by RSA-4096 will take many years, even if a super computer is used.
What led us to believe that a certain ransomware piece has employed this RSA algorithm? We received a complaint by one of our users, saying that they have found the following message, dropped in all of their folders:
NOT YOUR LANGUAGE? USE https://translate.google.com
What happened to your files ?
All of your files were protected by a strong encryption with RSA-4096.
More information about the encryption keys using RSA-4096 can be found here:
How did this happen ?
!!! Specially for your PC was generated personal RSA-4096 KEY, both public and private.
!!! ALL YOUR FILES were encrypted with the public key, which has been transferred to your computer via the Internet.
Decrypting of your files is only possible with the help of the private key and decrypt program, which is on our secret server.
What do I do ?
So, there are two ways you can choose: wait for a miracle and get your price doubled, or start obtaining BTC NOW, and restore your data easy way.
If You have really valuable data, you better not waste your time, because there is no other way to get your files, except make a payment.
For more specific instructions, please visit your personal home page, there are a few different addresses pointing to your page below:
[…] IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Your personal pages:
https://[SYMBOLS](.)justmakeapayment.com/[…] https://[SYMBOLS](.)brsoftpayment.com/[…] https://[SYMBOLS].com/[…] https://[SYMBOLS].onion.to/[…] Your personal page (using TOR-Browser):
Your personal identification number (if you open the site (or TOR-Browser’s) directly): […] !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is what software engineer Daniel Pocock says about the RSA-4096 algorithm:
If an attack is found that allows a 2048 bit key to be hacked in 100 hours, that does not imply that a 4096 bit key can be hacked in 200 hours. The hack that breaks a 2048 bit key in 100 hours may still need many years to crack a single 4096 bit key. It is also worth noting that simply adding 1 bit (going from 1024 bits to 1025 bits) does not double the effort to crack the key, each extra bit adds some security but a little bit less than what was gained with the previous bit.
What should users affected by RSA-4096 encryption do?
As usual, the first step is to remove the threat that has dropped the ransomware onto your system. Our research indicates that one of the Trojans that may be dropping the ransomware is Trojan:Win32/Miuref:B, categorized as an infostealer.
Trojan:Win32/Miuref:B is most likely working together with the Nuclear exploit kit, applied in numerous ransomware and malware operations.
NB.The malicious process associated with the Trojan and the current RSA-4096 encryption probably goes like that:
→The user receives a suspicious email containing an infected link ->The user is redirected to a page that hosts the Nuclear EK (or some other exploit kit)-> Trojan:Win32/Miuref:B, or another infostealer, harvests information about the system-> If the system ‘meets’ the requirements (e.g. if the system is 64-bit, it won’t be attacked), the ransomware payload is dropped onto it.
We have reasons to suspect that two big ransomware families may have employed the RSA-4096 encryption algorithm. To no one’s surprise, they are:
Both of the ransomware families are quite active at the moment. Moreover, they have various variants and have made enough money out of ransoms to accomplish RSA-4096 encryption. Nonetheless, these are only assumptions. We will let you know when we gather enough information about the particular ransomware using RSA-4096.
For the moment, refer to the removal instructions below the article. As for decryption of files encrypted by RSA-4096 – if you haven’t backed up your data, we’re afraid nothing can be done (besides paying the ransom, which we never recommend, and hoping for obtaining your personal key).
UPDATE, Dec 15
The ransomware that is currently using RSA-4096 is most likely TeslaCrypt. The ransomware appends the well-known .vvv extension to the victim’s files, and we have already seen TeslaCrypt use this particular extension. More information is already available – see how to remove TeslaCrypt RSA-4096.
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
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Step 1: Scan for RSA-4096 Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by RSA-4096 Ransomware.
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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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.
RSA-4096 Ransomware-FAQ
What is RSA-4096 Ransomware Ransomware?
RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 .RSA-4096 Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 .RSA-4096 Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".RSA-4096 Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this RSA-4096 Ransomware 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 RSA-4096 Ransomware 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.
BONJOUR
je viens d’etre infecté par RSA 4096,tout mes fichiers on été criptés PDF , Excel et photos a peu pres 3000 avec la fonction recherche de Windows j’ai eliminé 6000 lettres d’instruction.
je pense que tout les fichiers criptés sont perdus. Qu’n pensez vous
cordialement Gerard
Mi sistema es de 64bits y he sido infectado con RSA4096, pero mis archivos tienen la extencion .cript, baje el SpyHunter 4 y el escaneo no menciona a ninguno de los que se mencionan arriba.revise en panel de control y no tengo programas sospechosos instalados recientemente. Creo que me infecte en la pagina de rojadirecta viendo un partido de futbol, no infecta programas solo archivos texto, calculo, video y sonido es desesperante. El formateo del disco elimina la amenaza.
Hola Felipe, como bien dices formateando el equipo se acaba el virus, pero de casualidad lograste recuperar tus archivos? Gracias.
Hola
tengo el mismo problema con RSA4096, me urge recuperar mis archivos.
Quien me puede ayudar con este tema, ya que mis archivos están en .cript.
Muchas gracias de antemano