This article has been created in order to help you by showing you how to remove the .SEXY3 files virus from your computer and how to try and restore files that have been encrypted by this version of GlobeImposter on your PC.
A new ransomware virus, going by the name .SEXY3 files virus, has been reported to infect computers and then set the .SEXY3 file extension to encrypt the files on the compromised computers by it. The ransomware virus then sets the .SEXY3 file extension to the encrypted files and leaves behind a ransom note, aiming to extort victims into paying ransom in order to get the encrypted files to work again. If your computer has been infected by the .SEXY variant, which is part of the GlobeImposter ransomware virus family, we recommend that you read the following article and learn how to remove this ransomware and restore files encrypted by it on your PC.
Threat Summary
| Name | .SEXY3 Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and it shows a ransom note afterward. |
| Symptoms | This ransomware virus will encrypt your files and place the .SEXY extension on each one of them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .SEXY3 Files Virus. |
| 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. |
.SEXY3 Files Virus – Infection Methods
In order to infect the computers of victims the .SEXY3 files virus may use different ways. One of those includes the usage of the payload of this ransomware virus in order to infect your computer. The payload may circle around the web via different samples and in different forms. The ransomware virus may be using social media as well as file-sharing websites which help enable it to propagate passively onto the computers of users who download the payload. But in addition to this, the ransomware may also be spread via being sent to users by e-mails. These e-mails may mask the payload of the .SEXY3 files virus as a legitimate type of invoice, receipt or other seemingly legitimate type of file. So, before opening any files, make sure to download and check them first, and if you do not want to download the files, recommendations are to try scanning the e-mails you receive via online services that are free, like ZipeZip.
SEXY3 Files Virus – Technical Information
Once the .SEXY3 files virus has infected your computer, similar to other GlobeImposter(https://sensorstechforum.com/sexy-file-virus-remove-restore-files/) variants, like it’s older one, using the .SEXY file extension, the malware may modify the following Windows Registry sub-keys in Windows by adding value strings with data in them that makes the malicious files run automatically on system boot:
→ “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run”
“HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce”
Once this is done, the .SEXY3 GlobeImposter variant may begin to perform various different types of activities on the victim’s computer. The malware may drop it’s payload files, which may be located in the following Windows Directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
In addition to this, the ransomware may also drop it’s ransom note file, which is in a .html type of file with the following contents:
Text from Image:
YOUR PERSONAL ID
ENGLISH
YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED!
TO DECRYPT, FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW.
To recover data you need decryptor.
To get the decryptor you should:
Send 1 crypted test image or text file or document to sexy_chief@aol.com
(Or alternate mail sexy_chief18@india.com)
In the letter include your personal ID (look at the beginning of this document).
We will give you the decrypted file and assign the price for decryption all files
After we send you instruction how to pay for decrypt and after payment you will receive a decryptor and
instructions We can decrypt one file in quality the evidence that we have the decoder.
MOST IMPORTANT!!!
Do not contact other services that promise to decrypt your files, this is fraud on their part! They will buy
a decoder from us, and you will pay more for his services. No one, except sexy_chief@aol.com, will decrypt your files.
Only sexy_chief@aol.com can decrypt your files
Do not trust anyone besides sexy_chief@aol.com
Antivirus programs can delete this document and you can not contact us later.
Attempts to self-decrypting files will result in the loss of your data
Decoders other users are not compatible with your data, because each user‘s unique encryption key
Judging by the ransom note, the cyber-crooks not only want victims to pay the ransom but to also send a screenshot from the transaction being completed to their e-mails.
In addition to this, the ransomware virus also aims to perform different types of activities on the victim’s computer, such as delete the shadow volume copies on it by executing the following command as an administrator in Windows Command Prompt:
→ vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
.SEXY Files Virus – Encryption Process
There is no information as to what are the specific types of files, encrypted by the .SEXY files virus on victims’ computers. The ransomware, however looks for specific types of files, such as the following:
- Audio files.
- Database files.
- Image types of files.
- Documents.
- Pictures.
To encrypt the files, the .SEXY3 files virus may use various different types of methods and activities, which may result in the virus creating a unique decryption key and replacing the data on the original files of the infected computer.
Remove .SEXY3 Ransomware from Your Computer and Restore Your Files
If you want to remove the .SEXY3 files virus from your computer, we recommend that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They are created in order to help you to remove the .SEXY3 files virus either manually or automatically. If manual removal is not according to your experience, security experts strongly advise to remove the .SEXY3 files virus automatically from your computer using an advanced anti-malware software. It aims to fully delete any files that might be associated with this ransomware infection on your PC.
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 .SEXY3 Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .SEXY3 Files Virus.
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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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.
.SEXY3 Files Virus-FAQ
What is .SEXY3 Files Virus Ransomware?
.SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 ..SEXY3 Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..SEXY3 Files Virus 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 ..SEXY3 Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..SEXY3 Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .SEXY3 Files Virus 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 .SEXY3 Files Virus 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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