The Scarab-osk virus is the newest descendant from the Scarab ransomware family. It follows the already established behavior tactics of the previous versions and renames the target data with the .osk extension. Its development shows that the computer hackers continue to base new threats using the base ransomware code and further modifications to it are expected.
Threat Summary
| Name | Scarab-Osk |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .osk extensions and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Scarab-Osk. |
| 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. |
Scarab-Osk Virus – Distribution Ways
The newest release of the Scarab ransomware family has been released as the Scarab-osk virus version. At the moment the initial distribution campaign seems to be directed primarily against English speaking users. This shows that the attack waves are targeted and carefully planned before engagement. We expect to see numerous other campaigns carrying the same payload with various techniques.
One of the proposed mechanisms is the use of email SPAM messages that use various social engineering techniques in order to manipulate as many users as possible. The operators can use various text and graphics from well-known sites and services and use them as bait for computer users. The sent messages are disguised as legitimate messages and distribute the payloads either attached or directly hyperlinked in the body contents. The emails are also one of the primary mechanisms for payload delivery. There are two main types that are the most common:
- Software Installers — The computer hackers can bundle dangerous code into application installers of popular software such as creativity suites, productivity, system utilities and even computer games.
- Malware Documents — The other strategy is to embed the malware code into files of various types: rich text documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Usually a notification prompt is presented to the users asking them to enable the built-in macros (scripts). If this is done the infection follows.
Virus strains like this one can also be distributed with the help of browser hijackers that are dangerous plugins made for the most popular browsers. They are usually uploaded to the relevant plugin repositories using false developer credentials, user reviews and elaborate descriptions that attempt to fool the users into installing them. Theyusually redirect the victims to a hacker-controlled site and steal sensitive data from the victim hosts. Any malware actions, including the virus delivery, follow once the first stage of the behavior pattern is executed.
The Scarab-Osk virus can also be delivered using web scripts of different types that can also affect legitimate sites through ad and affiliate networks. This include the likes of redirects, pop-ups, banners and in-line hyperlinks.
Scarab-Osk Virus – In-Depth Analysis
The Scarab-Osk virus is the newest strain of the Scarab ransomware family. The code analysis reveals that it contains much of the behavior patterns that correspond to the previous versions.
It contains the same modular malware engine which can be tweaked according to the exact campaign. As such it can begin with an information gathering component that can hijack sensitive content from the affected devices. There are two primary types that are commonly distinguished:
- Private Data — It can be used to directly expose the victim’s identity. This is made possible by instructing the malware engine to harvest strings that may reveal the data. Examples include a person’s name, address, location, interests, passwords and account credentials.
- Campaign Metrics — Part of the hijacked information can be used to optimize the attacks. Such data includes information such as a profile of the installed hardware components and certain values from the operating system.
The collected data can then be fed to a stealth protection module which can protect the virus instance from detection and removal. It scans for the presence of anti-virus products, virtual machine hosts and sandbox environments. Advanced strains can be configured into deleting themselves if they are unable to process this step.
After this the virus has already been placed on the target system and the other follow-up components can be initiated. Usually Windows Registry entries are affected. Depending on the targets — user-installed applications or the operating system itself certain functions or services can fail to start properly. In addition overall performance can be affected. When the virus is deployed as a persistent threat the associated engine will deploy many additional modifications. This includes boot options by removing the ability to enter into the recovery boot menu. This also renders most manual recovery options non-working. In such cases we advise victims to follow our in-depth instructions and use a quality anti-spyware solution.
Furthermore the Scarab-Osk virus strain is capable of instituting a network connection with the hacker-controlled servers. If configured so this module can be used to spy on the victims in real time and take over control of their machines at any given time. This mechanism is also used for effective deployment of additional threats.
Additional modules can be loaded if the hackers configure the released strains in the appropriate manner. The deployed virus file can be modified in accordance to the predefined targets and the campaign in general.
Scarab-Osk Virus – Encryption Process
The Scarab-Osk virus uses the same complex encryption algorithm and cipher as used in previous versions of the family. It targets files based on a predefined list of target file type extensions:
- Archives
- Databases
- Documents
- Backups
- Images
- Videos
- Music
The affected files have their names hashed using a preset algorithm and the .osk extension is applied to them. The associated ransom message is created in a HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT file which reads the following:
YOUR FILES ARE CRYPTED!
Your personal identifier
6A02000000000000***46D93F
Your documents, photos, databases, saving in games and other important data were encrypted.
Data recovery requires a decryptor.
To receive the decryptor, you should send an e-mail to translatos@protonmail.com
In the letter, indicate your personal identifier (see At the beginning of this document).
If I can not connect through the mail, I can not
* Register on the site https://bitmsg.me (online delivery service Bitmessage)
* Send an email to BM-2cUvL7bCPmMZc7QonNfrdLQesmpxX9Sr53 with your email and ID of the identifier
Next, you pay the cost of the decryptor. In the reply letter you will receive the address Bitcoin-purse, for which it is necessary to perform the transfer of money in the amount of 0,013 bitcoin ( 0,013 BTC ~ 100 $ ).
If you do not have bitocoins
* Create a Bitcoin purse: https://blockchain.info/en/wallet/new
* Acquire the Bitcoin crypto currency:
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins (Visa / MasterCard, etc.)
https://www.bitcoin.it/wiki (instruction for beginners)
* Send 0,013 BTC to the address in the email address
When the money transfer is confirmed, you will receive a file decryption for your computer.
After starting the decryption program, all your files will be restored.
Attention!
* Do not attempt to uninstall the program or run antivirus software
* Attempts to self-decrypt files will result in the loss of your data
* Decoders of other users are incompatible with your data, as each user unique encryption key
Remove Scarab-Osk Virus and Restore .osk Files
If your computer system got infected with the Scarab-Osk ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
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 Scarab-Osk with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Scarab-Osk.
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 Scarab-Osk 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.
Scarab-Osk-FAQ
What is Scarab-Osk Ransomware?
Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk Infect?
Via several ways.Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk 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 .Scarab-Osk files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Scarab-Osk 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 .Scarab-Osk files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Scarab-Osk" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Scarab-Osk 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 Scarab-Osk 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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