Gergana has completed a bachelor degree in Marketing from the University of National and World Economy. She has been with the STF team for three years, researching malware and reporting on the latest infections. She believes that in times of constantly evolving dependency of network connected technologies, people should spread the word not the war.
Gergana has completed a bachelor degree in Marketing from the University of National and World Economy. She has been with the STF team for three years, researching malware and reporting on the latest infections. She believes that in times of constantly evolving dependency of network connected technologies, people should spread the word not the war.
Gergana has completed a bachelor degree in Marketing from the University of National and World Economy. She has been with the STF team for three years, researching malware and reporting on the latest infections. She believes that in times of constantly evolving dependency of network connected technologies, people should spread the word not the war.
Note! Your computer might be affected by Scarab-Red and other threats.
Threats such as Scarab-Red may be persistent on your system. They tend to re-appear if not fully deleted. A malware removal tool like SpyHunter will help you to remove malicious programs, saving you the time and the struggle of tracking down numerous malicious files. SpyHunter’s scanner is free but the paid version is needed to remove the malware threats. Read SpyHunter’s EULA and Privacy Policy
Gergana has completed a bachelor degree in Marketing from the University of National and World Economy. She has been with the STF team for three years, researching malware and reporting on the latest infections. She believes that in times of constantly evolving dependency of network connected technologies, people should spread the word not the war.
Security researchers have spotted yet another version of Scarab ransomware that is associated with the .red extension. Combined this two traits lead to its alternative name Scarab-Red. The threat acts like a typical data locker ransomware. So once running on the system it plagues system settings, encrypts important files and demands ransom payment for decryption solution. Keep reading and find out how to remove this ransomware in full from the infected system. The steps presented in the guide at the end aid to the potential recovery of encrypted files as well.
Threat Summary
Name
Scarab-Red
Type
Ransomware, Cryptovirus
Short Description
A data locker ransomware that utilizes strond cihper algorithm to encrypt files on stored on the infected computer. Then it demands a ransom for decryption solution.
Symptoms
Important files are locked and renamed with .red extension. They remain unusable until a ransom is paid.
Distribution Method
Spam Emails, Email Attachments
Detection Tool
See If Your System Has Been Affected by Scarab-Red
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-Red Ransomware – Distribution
The infection process with this Scarab ransomware version Scarab-Red begins after its payload is running on the system. The distribution of this payload is implemented by various shady techniques all of which are designed to trick you into installing the malicious code. One of the most common ways of ransomware distribution is via email spam messages. Bad actors often mislead users by spoofing the emails by setting the names of legitimate services like your favorite website or your internet provider, any logistics company, your bank or even any governmental institution. As regards of the presented messages, they usually urge you to open an attached file as soon as possible or click a presented link as the information you will find there is very important or available for limited time.
Scarab-Red Ransomware – Overview
Another iteration of Scarab ransomware that appends the specific extension .red has been detected to harass online users. The threat is known to use sophisticated cipher algorithm to encrypt important files so it can then blackmail victims into paying a ransom for decryption solution.
However, before the encryption stage, a lot of modifications that plague essential system components are performed. In order to complete all these malicious activities Scarab-Red drops additional malicious files on the infected operating system. And with the help of the initial infection code it makes possible the automatic execution of all needed malicious files and objects.
One way to implement this is by adding malicious values under specific registry keys like Run and RunOnce. Afterward, the functionalities of these keys manage the process of files start. Additionally, some of the malicious values added there grant the ransomware persistent presence on the system as its files start on each Windows load.
At the end of the attack, a ransom message appears on the screen to inform you about the attack and its impacts. The message blackmails you to contact hackers at a given email so they can tell you the amount of the demanded ransom. Be advised to refrain from following their instructions before you try all you can do by yourself to resolve the problem. Here is all that the message reads:
Hello! All your files have been encrypted! Dont worry, you can return all your files!
Your ID: 6A020000000000003FFDE4E115928B11C0200C4257CA3F64FFC57C5ECFD6AA1020DA65B7D5ED74B53C957995669695BB335B [redacted]
61D75ECE06BBF06CC2BF91AA3D4F0F8E23D432FFB01C655FDE5A35CA627847B65B01296930619A3D03859C522E15BCAC5C60 [redacted]
614115848734ECC75DADEB2CCF3717FA0C0789A41CD0B29874DFFA4A88E588CFB3C9A3B2FEC08588E7A74A2AE6B71A3E41D3 [redacted]
9AE6996D70CC938C7BCBDBF5DD52968E1817C27046471F
Free decryption as guarantee! 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. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Attention! * Do not rename encrypted files. * Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss. * Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
How to obtain Bitcoins? * The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price: https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins * Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here: http://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins
Scarab-Walker Ransomware – Encryption Process
Similar to the previous Scarab ransomware iterations this one plagues computer systems with the main purpose to locate predefined target files and encrypt them with the strong RSA-2048 cipher. This process transforms all files that store sensitive information in a way that you cannot use them anymore.
So in case of infection it is likely that all of the following files will remain encrypted until an efficient recovery solution restores their original code:
Audio files
Video files
Document files
Image files
Text files
Backup files
Banking credentials, etc
After encryption, all corrupted files could be recognized by the extension .red that is appended at the end of their names.
Following encryption, Scarab-Red crypto virus deletes all Shadow Volume Copies stored by the Windows operating system which eliminates one of the possible data recovery options.
Remove Scarab-Red Ransomware and Restore .red Files
The removal of Scarab-Red ransomware demands a bit of technical experience and ability to recognize traits of malware files. And there is no doubt that you should remove this nasty threat from the infected PC as soon as you detect it. Otherwise, it has the chance to spread its infection files among the whole network. Below you could find how to remove it step by step. Beware that ransomware has highly complex code that could plague not only your files but your whole system. So as recommended by security researchers you need to utilize an advanced anti-malware tool for its complete removal. Such tool will keep your system protected against devastating threats like Scarab-Red and other kinds of malware that endanger your online security.
After you remove the ransomware make sure to check the “Restore Files” step listed in the guide below. But before you take any further actions, don’t forget to back up all encrypted files to an external drive in order to prevent their irreversible loss.
Note! Your computer system may be affected by Scarab-Red and other threats. Scan Your PC with SpyHunter SpyHunter is a powerful malware removal tool designed to help users with in-depth system security analysis, detection and removal of threats such as Scarab-Red. 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.
To remove Scarab-Red follow these steps:
1. Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Scarab-Red files and objects
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
Boot Your PC Into Safe Mode
1. For Windows XP, Vista and 7. 2. For Windows 8, 8.1 and 10. Fix registry entries created by malware and PUPs on your PC.
For Windows XP, Vista and 7 systems:
1. Remove all CDs and DVDs, and then Restart your PC from the “Start” menu. 2. Select one of the two options provided below:
– For PCs with a single operating system: Press “F8” repeatedly after the first boot screen shows up during the restart of your computer. In case the Windows logo appears on the screen, you have to repeat the same task again.
– For PCs with multiple operating systems: Тhe arrow keys will help you select the operating system you prefer to start in Safe Mode. Press “F8” just as described for a single operating system.
3. As the “Advanced Boot Options” screen appears, select the Safe Mode option you want using the arrow keys. As you make your selection, press “Enter“.
4. Log on to your computer using your administrator account
While your computer is in Safe Mode, the words “Safe Mode” will appear in all four corners of your screen.
Step 1: Open up the Start Menu.
Step 2: Click on the Power button (for Windows 8 it is the little arrow next to the “Shut Down” button) and whilst holding down “Shift” click on Restart.
Step 3: After reboot, a blue menu with options will appear. From them you should choose Troubleshoot.
Step 4: You will see the Troubleshoot menu. From this menu choose Advanced Options.
Step 5: After the Advanced Options menu appears, click on Startup Settings.
Step 6: From the Startup Settings menu, click on Restart.
Step 7: A menu will appear upon reboot. You can choose any of the three Safe Mode options by pressing its corresponding number and the machine will restart.
Some malicious scripts may modify the registry entries on your computer to change different settings. This is why cleaning your Windows Registry Database is recommended. Since the tutorial on how to do this is a bit long and tampering with registries could damage your computer if not done properly you should refer and follow our instructive article about fixing registry entries, especially if you are unexperienced in that area.
2. Find files created by Scarab-Red on your PC
Find files created by Scarab-Red
1. For Windows 8, 8.1 and 10. 2. For Windows XP, Vista, and 7.
For Newer Windows Operating Systems
Step 1:
On your keyboard press + R and write explorer.exe in the Run text box and then click on the Ok button.
Step 2:
Click on your PC from the quick access bar. This is usually an icon with a monitor and its name is either “My Computer”, “My PC” or “This PC” or whatever you have named it.
Step 3:
Navigate to the search box in the top-right of your PC’s screen and type “fileextension:” and after which type the file extension. If you are looking for malicious executables, an example may be “fileextension:exe”. After doing that, leave a space and type the file name you believe the malware has created. Here is how it may appear if your file has been found:
N.B. We recommend to wait for the green loading bar in the navination box to fill up in case the PC is looking for the file and hasn’t found it yet.
For Older Windows Operating Systems
In older Windows OS’s the conventional approach should be the effective one:
Step 1:
Click on the Start Menu icon (usually on your bottom-left) and then choose the Search preference.
Step 2:
After the search window appears, choose More Advanced Options from the search assistant box. Another way is by clicking on All Files and Folders.
Step 3:
After that type the name of the file you are looking for and click on the Search button. This might take some time after which results will appear. If you have found the malicious file, you may copy or open its location by right-clicking on it.
Now you should be able to discover any file on Windows as long as it is on your hard drive and is not concealed via special software.
IMPORTANT! Before starting the Automatic Removal below, 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.
Use SpyHunter to scan for malware and unwanted programs
3. Scan for malware and unwanted programs with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Scan your PC and Remove Scarab-Red with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool and back up your data
1. Install SpyHunter to scan for Scarab-Red and remove them.2. Scan with SpyHunter, Detect and Remove Scarab-Red. Back up your data to secure it from malware in the future.
Step 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.
Step 2: Guide yourself by the download instructions provided for each browser.
Step 3: After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.
Step 1: After the update process has finished, click on the ‘Malware/PC Scan’ tab. A new window will appear. Click on ‘Start Scan’.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.
Back up your data to secure it against attacks in the future
IMPORTANT! Before reading the Windows backup instructions, we highly recommend to back up your data with a cloud backup solution and insure your files against any type of loss, even from the most severe threats. We recommend you to read more about it and to download SOS Online Backup.
4. Try to Restore files encrypted by Scarab-Red
Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Scarab-Red
Ransomware infections and Scarab-Red aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested several alternative methods that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that these methods may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Method 1: Scanning your drive’s sectors by using Data Recovery software. Another method for restoring your files is by trying to bring back your files via data recovery software. Here are some suggestions for preferred data recovery software solutions:
Method 2: Trying Kaspersky and EmsiSoft’s decryptors. If the first method does not work, we suggest trying to use decryptors for other ransomware viruses, in case your virus is a variant of them. The two primary developers of decryptors are Kaspersky and EmsiSoft, links to which we have provided below:
To restore your data in case you have backup set up, it is important to check for Volume Shadow Copies, if ransomware has not deleted them, in Windows using the below software:
Method 4: Finding the decryption key while the cryptovirus sends it over a network via a sniffing tool.
Another way to decrypt the files is by using a Network Sniffer to get the encryption key, while files are encrypted on your system. A Network Sniffer is a program and/or device monitoring data traveling over a network, such as its internet traffic and internet packets. If you have a sniffer set before the attack happened you might get information about the decryption key. See how-to instructions below:
Gergana has completed a bachelor degree in Marketing from the University of National and World Economy. She has been with the STF team for three years, researching malware and reporting on the latest infections. She believes that in times of constantly evolving dependency of network connected technologies, people should spread the word not the war.
Gergana has completed a bachelor degree in Marketing from the University of National and World Economy. She has been with the STF team for three years, researching malware and reporting on the latest infections. She believes that in times of constantly evolving dependency of network connected technologies, people should spread the word not the war.
1. For Windows XP, Vista and 7.
2. For Windows 8, 8.1 and 10.
Fix registry entries created by malware and PUPs on your PC.
1. Install SpyHunter to scan for Scarab-Red and remove them.
Back up your data to secure it from malware in the future.
