Article, designed to help you remove the Serpent ransomware virus and help restore files encrypted with .serp extension added to them.
Researchers have detected a version of Serpent ransomware still active out in the wild, using the .serp file extension which it adds to the encrypted files. The ransomware infection encrypts the files on the computers compromised by it after which demands a hefty ransom fee to be paid to the users. The demands are written in a ransom note file which is called “README_TO_RESTORE_FILES{random}.txt”. In case you have become a victim of this variant of Serpent ransomware, recommendations are to focus on reading this article carefully to learn how to remove this ransomware infection and try to get your data back.
Serp Virus Details
| Name | Serpent ransomware |
| File Extension | .serp |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Ransom Demanding Note | README_TO_RESTORE_FILES{random}.txt |
| Removal Time | 5 Minutes |
| Detection Tool |
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How Is Serpent Ransomware Distributed
The distribution stage of Serpent ransomware causing infections are usually achieved by sending out spammed e-mail messages that aim for only one – to convince the victim of these infections into opening the malicious attachments of those e-mails or click on web links which lead to infected URLs or files. Such e-mails often contain false statements such as:
- Invoice.
- Suspicious bank account activity.
- A purchase that is made in the name of the account holder.
- Other false claims.
Once the user opens the attachment, infection is inevitable and the virus may download it’s malious payload files on the infected system.
Other infection methods by the Serpent ransomware infection may also include the usage of fake program installers, fake game licensing patches or software key generators. These may be combined with malicious code which when executed causes the infection.
Serpent Ransomware –Infection Activity
Similar to the older version, after infection by the Serpent ransomware virus has become inevitable, the malware begins to perform multiple different activities, the first of which is to situate the following malicious files on the user’s computer, which may be the following:
software.exe
{random A-Z 0-9}.exe
%Temp%\puttyx86.exe
%Roaming%\{random folder name}\{random file name}.exe
%Startup%\{random vbs executable}.vbs
After having dropped the malicious files, this ransomware infection may attack multiple different Windows processes and either inject malicious code In them or completely shut them down:
bootsect.bak
iconcache.db
ntuser.dat
thumbs.db
After stopping any processes that may interfere with encryption, the Serpent ransomware virus may begin to interfere with the Windows Registry entries, making it possible for it’s previously dropped malicious files to run on system start-up. The usually targeted Windows registry keys 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
Serpent Ransomware – Encryption Process
Serpent ransomware is pre-configured to encrypt multiple file types by in the same time carefully avoiding files in Windows’ system folders so that it leaves the operating system intact.
The .serp file virus is believed to attack files with the following file extensions to encrypt them:
.2011, .2012, .2013, .2014, .2015, .2016, .2017, . 3dm, .7zip, .accd, .accdb, .accde, .accdr, .accdt, .aepx, .agdl, .aiff, .aspx, .back, .backup, .backupdb, .bank, .blend, .btif, .cdr3, .cdr4, .cdr5, .cdr6, .cdrw, .cfdi, .clas, .class, .cntk, .config, .craw, .db-journal, .db_journal, .ddoc, .ddrw, .defx, .design, .djvu, .docb, .docm, .docx, .dotm, .dotx, .dtau, .efsl, .erbsql, .fcpa, .fcpr, .flac, .flvv, .gray, .grey, .groups, .html, .iban, .ibank, .idml, .incpas, .indb, .indd, .indl, .indt, .int?, .intu, .java, .jpeg, .jsda, .kdbx, .kpdx, .laccdb, .lay6, .m2ts, .m3u8, .mbsb, .meta, .mhtm, .mone, .moneywell, .mpeg, .ms11, .myox, .nvram, .pages, .pcif, .php5, .phtml, .plus_muhd, .potm, .potx, .ppam, .ppsm, .ppsx, .pptm, .pptx, .prel, .prpr, .psafe3, .pspimage, .ptdb, .qb20, .qbmb, .qbmd, .qcow, .qcow2, .qdfx, .qmtf, .quic, .qwmo, .resx, .s3db, .safe, .sas7bdat, .save, .seam, .sldm, .sldx, .sqli, .sqlite, .sqlitedb, .tax0, .tax1, .tax2, .text, .tiff, .tt10, .tt11, .tt12, .tt13, .tt14, .tt15, .tt20, .vbox, .vbpf, .vhdx, .vmdk, .vmsd, .vmxf, .wallet, .xhtm, .xlam, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xltm, .xltx, .ycbcra, .zipx
The encryption process of Serpent can consist of the usage of the AES-256 encryption algorithm and the RSA cipher to generate unique public and private keys which are used for the decryption of the files. These keys may be sent to the cyber-criminals command and control servers so that they can demand a ransom.
After the encryption has finished, the files may be left in the following way:
After the whole process has finished, the last activity of the virus is to make sure the user knows of it’s presence, by dropping it’s ransom note:
- README_TO_RESTORE_FILES{random}.txt
- README_TO_RESTORE_FILES{random}.html
Remove Serpent Ransowmare and Restore .serp Encrypted Files
For the removal of Serpent ransomware, a good practice is to follow the instructions below. They will help you isolate the virus after which choose whether to look for each setting and file manually or if you do not have experience to perform the removal automatically (recommended).
After removing Serpent ransomware from your computer, it is time to think about the encrypted files. To restore files encoded by Serpent on your computer, we advise checking out the alternative file recovery methods in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Serpent” below.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Serpent with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Serpent 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 Serpent 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 Serpent 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 Serpent
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Serpent.
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 Serpent 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.
Serpent-FAQ
What is Serpent Ransomware?
Serpent 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 Serpent 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 Serpent Infect?
Via several ways.Serpent 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 Serpent 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 .Serpent files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Serpent 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 .Serpent files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Serpent" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Serpent 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 Serpent 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 Serpent ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Serpent 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 Serpent 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 Serpent Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Serpent 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 Serpent 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.
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