This article will help you remove Tfudeq Ransomware totally. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
Tfudeq is the name of a virus that encrypts your files, while appending the .tfudeq extension to each file. Files are locked with both AES and RSA 1024-bit military grade encryption algorithms. The Tfudeq cryptovirus will encrypt your data and when finished, it will demand money as a ransom to allegedly get your files restored. Keep on reading the article to see how you could try to potentially recover some of your files.
Threat Summary
| Name | Tfudeq ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer machine and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with the help of the AES and RSA encryption algorithms. All locked files will have the .tfudeq extension appended to them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Tfudeq ransomware. |
| 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. |
Tfudeq Ransomware – Decryptor Released
Recently a series of new STOP ransomware variants have been released in active attack campaigns. As revealed by security experts, the main difference between newly discovered strains is the extension they use to mark corrupted files. Here you could see a list of all other extensions that testify for infection with a strain of STOP ransomware:
Happily, security experts have managed to crack the code of almost all variants of this ransomware family and released a decryption tool. So at this point only victims of .puma, .pumax and .pumas, .djvu, .djvuq, .tfudeq, .djvut, .tfudeq, .pdff, .tfude, .tfudeq, .tro, .udjvu, .tfudet STOP ransomware versions are able to decrypt their files with the help of the decryption tool created by the security researchers AfshinZlfgh and Michael Gillespie.
In case that you are victim of one of these versions you can download it via the Decryption Tool link. The tool requires a pair of an original file and its encrypted version.
Tfudeq Ransomware – Distribution Ways
The Tfudeq ransomware can be acquired through any one of the popular virus delivery tactics. Depending on the size of the campaign and the intended victims the criminal collective can choose to select one primary method or several ones at the same time. Usually virus samples are delivered by email SPAM messages which are made to resemble legitimate messages from well-known companies and services. The Tfudeq virus files can be linked in the body contents or attached directly to them.
The other popular method relies on the creation of malicious web pages that impersonate real-world software pages, company landing pages or download portals. They may include fake or stolen security certificates and similar sounding domain names to the legitimate addresses.
To make the attacks more successful the hacking collective can generate payload carriers which lead to the Tfudeq ransomware infection. There are two popular types which are popular with ransomware creators:
- Setup Files — The criminals can take the legitimate installers of popular end user software and modify them with the necessary instructions. They will lead to the Tfudeq ransomware deployment as soon as they are started. Most commonly this tactics is made with the most popular choices of end users: creativity suites, system optimization programs, productivity and office apps and etc.
- Infected Documents — They are made by inserting macros into documents of all popular types: spreadsheets, presentations, text documents and databases. Whenever they are opened by the users by the users they will be asked to enable the built-in macros in order to correctly view the contents. In other cases merely clicking on any of the interactive elements will trigger the Tfudeq infection.
All of these Tfudeq virus carriers can also be uploaded to file-sharing networks like BitTorrent which is one of the most popular platforms for spreading both legitimate content and pirate data. Larger attack campaigns can be made by configuring browser hijackers to infect the target computers. They are malicious browser plugins that are made compatible with the most popular web browsers. Usually they can be found on the relevant repositories with fake developer credentials and user reviews in order to coerce the target into believing that they are installing a useful addition that will add new features or provide performance enhancement.
Tfudeq Ransomware – In-Depth Overview
This particular sample belongs to the STOP ransomware family and as such can be configured to execute whatever behavior pattern the criminals intend to make. The modular architecture can be set to run both the default actions as exhibited by the previous STOP ransomware or a different infection mechanism. We assume that the first batch of the samples will continue to behave like the STOP ransomware that we are all accustomed to.
The infection usually begin with an information gathering module which is configured to harvest sensitive data from the system. The obtained data can be categorized in two main categories:
- Personal Information — This is data that can directly expose the identity of the victim users. This is done by configuring the engine to search for strings that reveal the victim’s name, address, phone number, location and any stored account credentials. As soon as the data sets are retrieved by the hacker operators they can be used for crimes such as identity theft and financial abuse.
- Machine Metrics — This group of data is useful for creating an unique infection ID that is assigned to each individual computer. It is composed by running an algorithm that takes many parameters in order to generate it: a list of the installed hardware components, user settings and current operating system variables.
The extracted information can be used to scan for the presence of any applications or services that can interfere with the correct infection. This security bypass can act against a wide range of engines: anti-viruses, firewalls, virtual machine hosts and intrusion detection systems.
When the engine has overtaken control of the target computer it will have the ability to hook up to various processes — both third-party applications and operating system services. This allows the virus engine to inspect the users activities in real-time. Various types of system changes will be executed after this step has completed. Most of them will access and edit the Windows Registry. This can be done against the values used by the operating system, the effects will be that the users may face serious stability problems to the point where the infected computers are unusable. Modifications to registry entries belonging to any third-party apps can make the stop running or frequently display unexpected errors.
If a persistent infection is made then the boot options and important system configuration files will be edited to start the Tfudeq ransomware each time the computer is powered on. This will also disable certain recovery boot menu options which will render many manual user recovery guides non-working.
Malware infections like the Tfudeq ransomware are popular devices for delivering co-infections — many of these samples can be configured to deploy other threats such as Trojans, miners and hijackers. Depending on the attack campaign, infected computers and other metrics the Tfudeq ransomware can act in different ways.
Tfudeq Ransomware – Encryption Process
What is known for the encryption process of the Tfudeq ransomware is that every file that gets encrypted will receive the .tfudeq extension. The encryption algorithms used to lock the files are AES and RSA 1024-bit.
The targeted extensions of files which are sought to get encrypted are currently unknown and if a list is discovered, it will be posted here as the article gets updated. The files used most by users and which are probably encrypted are from the following categories:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
The Tfudeq cryptovirus could be set to erase all the Tfudeq Volume Copies from the Windows operating system with the help of the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete Tfudeq /all /Quiet
In case the above-stated command is executed that will make the encryption process more efficient. That is due to the fact that the command eliminates one of the prominent ways to restore your data. If your computer device was infected with this ransomware and your files are locked, read on through to find out how you could potentially restore your files back to normal.
Remove Tfudeq Ransomware Virus and Restore .tfudeq Files
If your computer got infected with the Tfudeq ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for Tfudeq ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Tfudeq ransomware.
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 Tfudeq ransomware 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.
Tfudeq ransomware-FAQ
What is Tfudeq ransomware Ransomware?
Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware 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 .Tfudeq ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Tfudeq ransomware 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 .Tfudeq ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Tfudeq ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Tfudeq ransomware 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 Tfudeq ransomware 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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