Malware sure is evolving fast and many researchers and cyber-security officials are concerned about that. The latest developments in malware seemed to recently be the new ransomware viruses that terrorize victims all the time. However, even ransomware viruses can evolve and doxware is the proof of that. This new form of malware originating from ransomware viruses takes online extortion to a whole new level, threatening victims that their personal files will now be exposed publicly to their friends. Cyber-security experts feel very concerned that this new type of threat will cause a lot of damage if it becomes widespread and attacks private organizations, threatening to leak secret files to the public if a ransom has not been paid. We have decided to make an extensive article that will help you understand more what doxware is and what data management tactics and protection techniques can help you deal with this new type of threat.
What Is Doxware?
By definition doxware comes from the term doxing also known as “doxxing”. It is basically the activity of exposing publicly files that are sensitive for someone. Let’s imagine that Jenny is a malware researcher and she does not like anyone to know her name. Now let’s imagine that someone attacks Jenny’s computer with doxware and threatens to expose that she cracked so many viruses, making her a direct target by many black hat hackers whose business Jenny had ruined. This is essentially the purpose of the Doxware, except it works in combination with ransomware. Instead of going through the painstaking process of encrypting and decrypting files, the malware writers may focus more and more on the private files of users to directly threaten to leak them to friends on social media or sell them online. This very real threat is now a reality and viruses, like Epic Ransomware are using encryption in combination with doxxing type of threats to “motivate” victims to pay the ransom.
Security experts now see such threats to become more and more often in the future and are massively warning users on social media:
Image Source: Twitter
As Mikko Hypponen, a star in the malware research sphere recently quoted – “It is no longer a war against our computers, it is now a war against our lives.”, this forecast is becoming more and more correct. With doxware viruses which may become very widespread and completely replace the traditional ransomware, the profits of cyber-criminals will rapidly rise. This is due to the unique strategy of doxware that works by inducing fear in the victim, leaving no choice. And what is more to it than that, malware researchers will be helpless, due to the fact that even if they are able to decrypt the files, they will be leaked publicly.
How Is Doxware Expected to Spread
Similar to most typical ransomware viruses, doxware ransomware may spread via phishing e-mails, who, just like malware have also evolved. Unlike the previously used e-mail attachments in archives, cyber-criminals now obfuscate the attachments using JavaScripts and expensive exploit kits. Not only this, but doxware may also be spread by malicious web links that cause injection of such scripts which is becoming more and more common and difficult to spot. Here is a fake phishing web page, distributing doxware under a fake PayPal button:
How to Protect Yourself from Doxware
Basically when we talk about Doxware protection, the principles remain rather the same like with any other malware out there because Doxware has evolved in the activities it performs after the infection itself is done, not during the infection, which is mostly done via Exploit Kits, Trojan.Downloaders, injector tools, malicious JavaScript or PUPs.
This is why we have assembled some articles with updated knowledge we have and tactics to protect yourself. They will work for doxware viruses, especially when it comes to data protection. This is why we advise following them and combining them into a system that is tailor made against doxware for your network whether it is home or office.
Here are the informative articles:
- Obfuscation In Malware- the Key to a Successful Infection
- Safely Store Your Important Files and Protect Them from Malware
- The Most Popular Free Anti-Ransomware Tools
- Cerber Ransomware and How to Protect Yourself from Crypto-Malware
- Helpful Tips about Ransomware
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 Doxware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Doxware 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 Doxware 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 Doxware 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 Doxware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Doxware.
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 Doxware 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.
Doxware-FAQ
What is Doxware Ransomware?
Doxware 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 Doxware 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 Doxware Infect?
Via several ways.Doxware 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 Doxware 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 .Doxware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Doxware 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 .Doxware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Doxware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Doxware 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 Doxware 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 Doxware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Doxware 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 Doxware 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 Doxware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Doxware 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 Doxware 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.
I predict that the doxware threats will continue to evolve and spread. This is a disturbing sign of some of the dangers that are upon us.
Stay protected!
Agreed!
something surely has to be done, concerning data management