What Is Stax Virus?
The Stax virus is actually a ransomware infection that belongs to the STOP/DJVU malware family. The main purpose of this malware is to encrypt images, videos, documents, archives, and other important files on your computer so it can add the .stax extension and prevent you from opening them. The creators of this malware want you to read the _readme.txt ransom note file, which contains the extortionist instructions that are asking you to be a hefty sum in Bitcoin if you want to use your files again.
Read the removal article beneath to learn more about how the Stax virus works and how to remove it and try to get your files to work again.
Stax Virus Summary
Name | Stax virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB |
File Extension | .stax |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
Symptoms | The Stax Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .stax extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
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Stax Virus – Main Activity
Stax virus is a very dangerous infection. It shares the same code with many other viruses of the same family of threats, like the recently detected Guer, Irjg and Vtua ones.
There are two main ways these malware threats used to end up on victim computers. They are the following:
- Via e-mail attachments.
- Via the virus file being downloaded from some third-party site.
In case you have been targeted by this nasty infection by email, then the attachments in that email will most likely resemble a very important document, for example:
- Tickets for flights.
- Work-related documents.
- Invoice of some sort.
- Purchase e-receipt.
But if you have manually downloaded it and virus file and activated it on your computer which led to the infection with the Stax ransomware, then the suspects are usually the following:
- Keygen (key generator activator).
- Patches for apps or games.
- Portable software.
- Fake setups.
- Cracks or activators.
Furthermore, when they smelled were in fact your computer it may begin to connect to the remote server with the hidden location. From there, it will download the files it needs to encrypt your important data and leave them in the following Windows directories:
- %LocalLow%
- %Temp%
- %SystemDrive%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
Not only this, but the ransomware also make sure to drop its note file, containing the following extortion message:
Among the malicious activities, this malware performs on your computer may be to modify the following Windows registry subkeys:
- RunOnce
- Run
It will add value strings with data in them that points out the actual location of the malicious files.
.stax Files
Once already in your computer, the Stax virus begins scanning for the files to encrypt based on their extensions. The main files that are encoded are the following:
- Archive file types (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Documents (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Images (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Music & Audio files (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Video objects (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Others.
Once it has finished encrypting all of the files, this malware leaves them looking like the example below shows:
Picture.jpg.stax
The malware is very careful not to encrypt important Windows files and drivers so you can still use your computer to pay the ransom in Bitcoin. Paying this ransom is strongly inadvisable because you cannot trust the same people that encrypted your files.
Remove Stax Virus and Try to Restore Files
In case you want to remove Stax malware effectively from your machine security experts strongly recommend that you follow guides only from a legitimate website because many fake websites that offer guides could only be after your money. We have created a guide below that can help you get rid of this infection either manually or automatically and we suggest that you follow it. For the best removal, be advised that malware researchers and cyber security professionals often advise scanning your computer automatically using advanced anti-malware software. This is a professional program that can detect and remove any malicious files safely from Windows and ensure future protection.
If you want to recover your files, but there is no decryption software for this virus released for free yet, then the alternative file recovery steps beneath may be able to help out with getting some of your data back. Be advised that they are not at 100% solution to fixing all of the files, but they may help with restoring at least some data.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Stax with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Stax 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Stax 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 Stax there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Stax
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Stax.
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 Stax 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.
Stax-FAQ
What is Stax Ransomware?
Stax 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 Stax 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 Stax Infect?
Via several ways.Stax 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 Stax 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 .Stax files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Stax 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 .Stax files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Stax" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Stax 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 Stax 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 Stax ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Stax 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 Stax 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 Stax Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Stax 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 Stax 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.
My computer has been infected with a ransomware virus and it has added a stax extension to all my files. Sorry, my files are too important. Can anything be done to restore the files?
Thank you for your help.