This article has been created to help you understand what is the Shrug ransomware virus (ShrugDecryptor) and show how to remove it plus how you can restore files, encrypted by it with an added .SHRUG2 extension.
A new ransomware virus, calling itself .SHRUG2 ransomware is the type of virus, whose primary purpose is to convince victims to pay $70 worth of BitCoin for about 3 days time. The ransomware virus aims to set a deadline to pay the ransom and if the victim does not comply, the actors threaten to destroy the decryption keys of the files, supposedly making them completely undecryptable. If your computer has been victimized by the .SHRUG2 files virus, we advise that you read this article and learn how you can remove this variant of Shrug Ransomware and how you can try to recover your files or decrypt them.
Threat Summary
| Name | .SHRUG2 Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on the victim’s computer and then gives 3 days to pay $70 ransom to decrypt them. |
| Symptoms | The files are encrypted with the .SHRUG2 file extension added to them and a ransom note, called ShrugDecryptor appears on the victim PC. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .SHRUG2 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. |
.SHRUG2 Files Virus – Distribution Methods
For the .SHRUG2 file ransomware to be effectively distributed, the creators of this malware aim to push the malicious files of this virus via e-mails that pretend to originate from big companies, from the likes of:
- DHL.
- FedEx.
- PayPal.
- eBay.
- Amazon.
In addition to this, the .SHRUG2 files virus is the type of threat that aims to get users to download the malicious payload of the ransomware, masked as a fake document. The types of files which may pose as legitimate are usually:
- Invoices.
- Receipts.
- Banking documents.
- Purchase details.
Furthermore, in addition to via e-mail, the .SHRUG2 files virus may also pose as a legitimate program of some sort that is downloadable. These types of files are uploaded on suspicious sites for software downloads and they often pretend to be:
- Setups of software.
- Fake executable files.
- Fake portable programs.
- Patches, cracks or other forms of software license activators.
.SHRUG2 Files Virus – More Information
The .SHRUG2 ransomware is the type of ransomware that aims to slither on your PC undetected and then hold your files hostage for ransom. To reach this end goal, the .SHRUG2 files virus performs series of unwanted activities on your PC. For starters, the ransomware virus drops it’s payload files on the computer of the victim. The files consist of the main malicious executable of Shrug Ransomware and other support files of the virus, like it’s ransom note. The ransomware may drop it’s malicious files in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
The primary sample file of Shrug ransomware has been reported to have the following information:
→ SHA256: c89833833885bafdcfa1c6ee84d7dbcf2389b85d7282a6d5747da22138bd5c59
Name:codexgigas_6c2194f9067756ca039d57113e3b93a7a34659d4
After the files belonging to Shrug ransomware are dropped on the victim PC, the malware may start to create mutexes and modify system files of Windows. In addition to this, the ransomware may also add registry entries in the following Windows Registry sub-keys:
→ 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
This activity is done with the purpose to get the ransomware virus to run automatically when you boot Windows and log in.
Among the malicious files of Shrug ransomware is it’s ransom note file, calling itself ShrugDecryptor. It appears In a typical ransomware manner with a mocking image at the expense of the user:
Shrug Ransomware – Encryption Process
The second variant of Shrug ransomware may initially scan for the types of files it wants to encrypt. The virus looks for the most often used files on the computers of victims such as:
- Documents.
- Images.
- Videos.
- Audio files.
- Archives.
- Virtual Drives.
Once the files are detected, the ransomware encrypts them using the same encryption mode as HiddenTear ransomware does, since Shrug is a HiddenTear variant. After encryption, the virus adds the .SHRUG2 file extension to the files that have been encrypted by it and they start to appear like the following:
Remove Shrug Ransomware and Restore .SHRUG2 Files
To remove this ransomware virus from your computer it is recommended that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They have been divided in manual and automatic removal instructions. If manual removal is not a solution for you because of one reason or the other, be advised that researchers recommend to remove .SHRUG2 virus automatically by downloading an advanced anti-malware software, which will take care of the removal process for you.
If you want to restore files, encrypted by this variant of Shrug Ransomware, be advised that you might be in luck, because it is actually a variant of HiddenTear. This is why we have created the Decryption Instructions, which can help decrypt most HiddenTear ransomware variants for free. In addition to this, if this method does not work for you, you can try the alternative methods for file recovery in step “2. Restore files encrypted by .SHRUG2 Files Virus” 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 .SHRUG2 Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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.
.SHRUG2 Files Virus-FAQ
What is .SHRUG2 Files Virus Ransomware?
.SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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 ..SHRUG2 Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..SHRUG2 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 ..SHRUG2 Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..SHRUG2 Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .SHRUG2 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 .SHRUG2 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.
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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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