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Scarab-please Virus (Scarab Ransomware) – Remove and Restore .please Files

A new iteration of the Scarab malware family has been identified — the Scarab-virus. It is a classic example of a ransomware that has the ability to encrypt target data and extort the victims for a payment.

Threat Summary

Name Scarab-please
Type Ransomware
Short Description The Scarab-Please virus is malware strain of the Scarab family that encrypts target user data and extorts the victims for a ransom fee payment.
Symptoms Computer users will be unable to access their data which is encrypted with the .please extension.
Distribution Method Spam Emails, File Sharing Networks, Exploit Kits
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Scarab-Please Virus – Infection Spread

The Scarab-Please virus as a customized strain of the Scarab malware family can spread itself using the same tactics.

A primary method is the use of email messages that usually employ social engineering tactics in order to coerce the intended victims into interacting with the dangerous code. The Scarab-Please threat can be inserted as a hyperlink by posing as sites and links of user interest. Usually this is done by taking the text and graphics of legitimate sites and using them in the messages. In other instances the malware can be directly delivered to the victims as file attachments.

Another mechanism used by the criminals is the use of infected documents that can be of different types: rich text documents, spreadsheets and presentations. They frequently pose as files of interest such as letters, contracts, invoices and enc. Once they are opened by the victims a notification prompts appears that asks them to enable the built-in macros (scripts). If this is done then the virus will be downloaded from a hacker-controlled site and installed on the infected computer.

Related payload delivery mechanisms also include the infection of software installers. They are made by taking the legitimate setup files from the vendors and modifying them to include the Scarab-please virus. The most popular targets remain system utility applications, creativity tools and computer games.

The Scarab-please virus code can be integrated to browser hijackers of different types. They represent malicious plugins made for the most popular web browsers: Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Opera, Internet Explorer, Safari and Microsoft Edge. Their main goal is to redirect the victims to a hacker-controlled site by changing the application’s default settings (new tabs, search engine and home page). .

The threat can also be installed through the use of malware scripts such as banners, pop-ups or in-text links. They can also be frequently found on legitimate sites as well and online communities (forums and chats).

Internet users should be extremely careful as malware strains are frequently posted to hacker-controlled sites that impersonate legitimate vendors and well-known portals. This is also the case with file sharing networks like BitTorrent.

Scarab-Please Virus – Technical Data

The Scarab-Please virus strain is a customized version of the Scarab malware family and as such uses the same behavior patterns.

It is very possible that the updated versions includes newer functionality. Changes can be implemented in virtually all aspects of the virus execution. The hackers modify the initial infection engine by including a stealth protection mechanism. It scans the system for the presence of security software signatures (anti-virus products, virtual machine hosts & debugging environments) and bypass or entirely remove their real-time scan engines. Advanced virus strains can be programmed into deleting themselves to avoid detection.

When the Scarab-please virus has been deployed in full it can launch various modules including an information gathering one. It is usually programmed in advance and can gather two types of data:

  • Anonymous Metrics — They are composed of data about the installed hardware components and the available software.
  • Personal Data — The virus can be programmed into harvesting personal information from the compromised machines. The malware can be instructed into searching for specific strings related to the victim’s name, address, phone number, geolocation, interests and passwords.

A next step would be to cause dangerous system changes that can lead to a persistent state of execution. This makes it very difficult for the victims to delete the threat on their own without the use of a quality anti-spyware solution. The Scarab-pleases virus engine may delete the found shadow volume copies of affected data which will make data recovery very difficult, unless the users attempt to use a professional solution. Changes to the boot options and Windows Registry can remove the possibility of using various recovery options. Such changes can also impact other applications by causing performance issues or glitches while execution.

Scarab-Please Virus – Encryption Process

Once all relevant modules have completed execution the ransomware component in started. Like the previous Scarab malware samples it uses a built-in list of target file type extensions. Usually the most popular data is affected:

  • Archives
  • Backups
  • Documents
  • Music
  • Videos
  • Images

Once all files have been processed accordingly they are renamed with the .please extension. A ransomware note is produced in a HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT file that reads the following message:

Hello!
All your files have been encrypted!
Dont worry, you can return all your files!
If you want restore files write on e-mail
1. decry1@cock.li
2. decry2@cock.li (if first email unavailable)
Your ID:
6A02000000000000***A2E503
Send me your ID and 1-2 small encrypted files(The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived)) for free decryption.
After that, I’ll tell you the price for decryption all files.
Dont try to use other decryptor tools because it will destroy your files.

Remove Scarab-Please Virus and Restore Your Files

If your computer got compromised and is infected with the Scarab-Please ransomware virus, you should have some experience with removing viruses before tampering with it. You should get rid of the ransomware fast before it can spread further on the network and encrypt more files. The recommended action for you is to remove the ransomware completely by following the step-by-step instructions written 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
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Step 4
  • Step 5

Step 1: Scan for Scarab-please with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.


It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.


2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 2


3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 3


4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 4

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide

Step 2: Uninstall Scarab-please 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:


1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.
delete ransomware from windows step 1


2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.
delete ransomware from windows step 2


3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"
delete ransomware from windows step 3Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.


Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Scarab-please 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-please there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.
delete ransomware virus registries step 1


2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.
delete ransomware virus registries step 2


3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.
delete ransomware virus registries step 3 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.

IMPORTANT!
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-please

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!
We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows Key + R.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 1


2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 2


3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".
remove ransomware in safe mode step 3
Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.


4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 4


5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 5


Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Scarab-please.

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:

stop ransomware decryptor step 1

2. Agree with the license terms:

stop ransomware decryptor step 2

3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:

stop ransomware decryptor step 3

4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.

stop ransomware decryptor step 4

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-please 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.

1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

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-please-FAQ

What is Scarab-please Ransomware?

Scarab-please 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-please 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-please Infect?

Via several ways.Scarab-please 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-please 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-please files?

You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Scarab-please 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-please files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

Can I Restore ".Scarab-please" Files?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Scarab-please 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-please 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-please ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Scarab-please 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-please 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-please Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Scarab-please 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-please 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.

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