The AutoTRON virus is a newly discovered threat that uses the built-in ransomware engine to rename target sensitive files with the .tron extension. Our in-depth removal guide shows how victims can recover the data and remove the threat from their computers.
Threat Summary
| Name | AutoTRON |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .tron extension and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
| 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 AutoTRON. |
| 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. |
AutoTRON Virus – Distribution Ways
The AutoTRON virus is being distributed against users worldwide. At the moment thers is no information about the criminal or group behind the attacks. It is speculated that beginner users are behind the attack as it is a customized strain of another recent virus.
The number of captured strains is very low which is a clear indicator that the attacks are very small in volume or that the campaign has no started. This leads us to believe that the operators will likely use the most popular tactics. A main virus delivery metod is the use of spam email messages. They use social engineering tricks in order to coerce the targets into interacting with the dangerous element. The malware files can be either attached directly to the messages or hyperlinked in the body contents. The most common way is to take contents such as images and text from well-known Internet services. They are used to customized the messages and make them look like sent from legitimate sources. The emails are also the primary delivery method for distributing infected payloads. There are two primary types:
- Software Installers — They are made by the hackers by taking the legitimate files of famous software and embedding thed AutoTRON virus code in them. The hackers typically choose popular software such as utilities, creativity tools or computer games.
- Infected Documents — The criminals can use documents of different types as presentations, rich text documents and spreadsheets. As soon as they are started by the victims a notification prompt will appear asking them to enable the built-in scripts (macros). If this is done the the virus will be downloaded from a remote location and executed on the victim machine.
Other delivery methods that can deliver the AutoTRON virus include web scripts such as banners, pop-ups and redirects. In certain cases through affiliate netowrks they can allow the AutoTRON virus to propagate to legitimate sites as well.
Browser hijackers are another method delivery mechanism. They represent malware web browser add-ons that are made compatible with the most popular software: Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Opera, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Internet Explorer. Once they are installed onto the victim computer default settings are changed in order to redirect the victims to a hacker-controlled site. Changed values include the home page, search engine and new tabs page.
AutoTRON Virus – In-Depth Analysis
Once installed the AutoTRON virus starts to execute its built-in behavior patterns. The threat is written using the AutoIT scripting language it is possible that the hacker or group behind it to have used a template or guide in creating the associated malware samples.
It is possible to customize the AutoTRON samples according to each virus campaign. As such future updates and improved versions of it can begin with a data harvesting module. The data is usually classified into two main types:
- Anonymous Data — It is used by the hacker controllers to analyze how effective the campaign is. It mainly consists of data about the hardware components and certain operating system values.
- Private Data — It is used to directly expose the identity of the victims. The engine is programmed into harvesting strings such as a person’s name, address, phone number, interests, location, passwords and account credentials.
This data can be used by the stealth protection engine if such is available. It scans the infected computers for software and services that can interfere with the correct execution of the virus engine. Examples include virtual machine hosts, anti-virus software and debugging environments. In certain cases the AutoTRON virus can remove itself to avoid detection if it is unable to bypass their engines.
The next step would be to institute system changes to the affected machines. Modifications can be made to the Windows Registry which can result in the inability to start certain applications or services. If the AutoTRON virus affects any of the operating system related entries then this can result in severe performance issues.
When the malware engine is programmed to create a persistent state of execution which makes it very difficult for the victims to remove them using manual methods. A prime example is the modification of certain boot options such as the recovery startup menu. The virus engine can effectively make it impossible to enter into it. The malware engine can also modify the system in order to automatically start it every time it is started.
Some viruses institute a network connection with malware servers. This can be used in a Trojan like behavior by spying on the victims in real time and having the ability to take over control of the affected machines at any given time. This connection can also be used to deploy additional threats.
AutoTRON Virus – Encryption Process
The ransomware engine uses a strong cipher in order to affect personal user files. The captured strains were found to affect the following file types:
- Archives
- Backups
- Databases
- Music
- Images
- Videos
The ransomware note is crafted in a README.txt file:
What Happened to My Computer?
Your important files are encrypted.
Many of your documents, photos, videos, databases and other files are no longer accessible because they have been encrypted. Maybe you are busy looking for a way to recovery your files, but do not waste your time. Nobody can recover your files without our decryption service.
Can i Recover my Files ?
Sure, We guarantee that you can recover ll your files safely and easily. But you have not so enough time.
You have only have 10 days to submit the payment. Also, if you don’t pay in 10 days, you won’t be able to recover your files forever.
How Do I pay?
Payment is accepted in bitcoin only. For more inforrmation. Please check the current price of bitcoin and buy some bitcoins.
And send the correct amount to the address specifiled in the window.
After your payment you need to write to us on mail ( bitcoin.change.manager@gmail.com )
We will decrypt your files.
We strongly recommend you to not remove this software, and disable your anti-virus for a while, untill you pay and the payment gets processed. If your anti-virus gets updated and removes this software autmatically, it will not be able to recover your files even if you pay!
To unlock the computer, you must transfer the bitcoins to this address: 1GFDAKpVsGskvn4RmnjjUxmcrX54xC41nY
to contact us, write here: bitcoin.change.manager@gmail.com
For buy bitcoins, i can advise
Website: xxxxs://localbitcoins.com
Website: xxxxs://www.bestchange.com
The essence of the work through the exchangers is very simple: Choose what currency to change.
Then what currency you want to ( in our case – want to receive bitcoins )
Indicate the requisites of your wallet pay and a few minutes receive bitcoins to your wallet.
if you do not understand, you can watch the video how to exchange your money for bitcoin xxxxs://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jck4GeBB3-c
All victim files are renamed with the .TRON extension.
Remove AutoTRON Virus and Restore .Tron Files
If your computer system got infected with the AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by AutoTRON.
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 AutoTRON 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.
AutoTRON-FAQ
What is AutoTRON Ransomware?
AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON Infect?
Via several ways.AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON 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 .AutoTRON files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .AutoTRON 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 .AutoTRON files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".AutoTRON" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this AutoTRON 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 AutoTRON 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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