TRUST FILES Ransomware [.HIXJ virus]

by Ventsislav Krastev | Last Update: March 19, 2025 | 0 Comments

What Is TRUST FILES Virus?

TRUST FILES Virus is a type of ransomware that locks your files and demands money for their release. Cybersecurity experts discovered it spreads through harmful email attachments. It often disguises itself in various file formats to avoid detection.

This ransomware blocks access to your files and asks for a ransom through a note named helpme.bat, while adding the .HIXJ extension to affected files. It mainly spreads via phishing emails, fake software downloads, and unsafe sites. Once inside, it encrypts your files and renames them with the .HIXJ Dragon extension. Paying the ransom is risky because there’s no guarantee you’ll get your data back. The safest method is to remove the virus and try secure file recovery options. Keep reading to learn how to eliminate TRUST FILES Ransomware and restore your files without paying hackers.

TRUST FILES Ransomware [.HIXJ virus] - Removal + Recovery

On this page:

What Is TRUST FILES Virus?TRUST FILES Virus – Details How Did I Get Infected?TRUST FILES Virus – What Does It Do?What Are .HIXJ Dragon Encrypted Files?How to Remove TRUST FILES Virus

TRUST FILES Virus – Details

File Extension	.HIXJ
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 Moroccan Dragon Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending a random name extension to them.
Ransom Demanding Note	#README.hta, #README-TO-DECRYPT-FILES.txt
Distribution Method	Spam Emails, Email Attachments
Detection Tool	See If Your Mac Has Been Affected by TRUST FILES Download Malware Removal Tool

How Did I Get Infected?

TRUST FILES Virus spreads through different attack strategies, including:

Opening infected email attachments or clicking on unsafe links from unverified sources.
Downloading illegal software or media from unreliable websites.

TRUST FILES Virus – What Does It Do?

This ransomware encrypts data on your computer. It scans for specific file types and might even steal sensitive data before encryption. The attackers then demand Bitcoin for a decryption key.

Once active, the malware connects to a remote server and may install additional malicious software. It also creates dangerous files in these Windows directories:

%Local%
%Temp%
%Windows%
%SystemDrive%
%LocalLow%
%AppData%
%System%
%system32%

Additionally, it modifies the Windows Registry to ensure it launches at startup.

The ransom message may read:

TRUST FILES
Dear Client

If you are reading this message, it means that:

– your network infrastructure has been compromised,
– critical data was leaked,
– files are encrypted

The best and only thing you can do is to contact us to settle the matter before any losses occurs.
If You Want To Restore Them Email Us : Trustfiles@skiff.com
If You Do Not Receive A Response Within 24 Hours, Send A Message To Our Second Email : Trustfiles@onionmail.org
Or Contact via Telegram ID: hxxps://t.me/Trustfiles

1. THE FOLLOWING IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN
1.1 EDITING FILES ON HDD.
Renaming, copying or moving any files could DAMAGE the cipher and decryption will be impossible.

1.2 USING THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE.
Trying to recover with any software can also break the cipher and file recovery will become a problem.

1.3 SHUTDOWN OR RESTART THE PC.
Boot and recovery errors can also damage the cipher. Sorry about that, but doing so is entirely at your own risk.

2. EXPLANATION OF THE SITUATION
2.1 HOW DID THIS HAPPEN
The security of your IT perimeter has been compromised (it’s not perfect at all). We encrypted your workstations and servers to make the fact of the intrusion visible and to prevent you from hiding critical data leaks. We spent a lot of time researching and finding out the most important directories of your business, your weak points. We have already downloaded a huge amount of critical data and analyzed it. Now its fate is up to you, it will either be deleted or sold, or shared with the media.

2.2 VALUABLE DATA WE USUALLY STEAL:
– Databases, legal documents, personal information.
– Audit reports.
– Audit SQL database.
– Any financial documents (Statements, invoices, accounting, transfers etc.).
– Work files and corporate correspondence.
– Any backups.
– Confidential documents.

2.3 TO DO LIST (best practies)
– Contact us as soon as possible. – Contact us only in our Mails or Telegram, otherwise you can run into scammers. – Purchase our decryption tool and decrypt your files. There is no other way to do this. – Realize that dealing with us is the shortest way to success and secrecy. – Give up the idea of using decryption help programs, otherwise you will destroy the system permanently. – Avoid any third-party negotiators and recovery groups. They can become the source of leaks.

3. POSSIBLE DECISIONS
3.1 NOT MAKING THE DEAL
– After 4 days starting tomorrow your leaked data will be Disclosed or sold.
– We will also send the data to all interested supervisory organizations and the media.
– Decryption key will be deleted permanently and recovery will be impossible.
– Losses from the situation can be measured based on your annual budget.

3.2 MAKING THE WIN-WIN DEAL
– Databases, legal documents, personal information.
– You will get the only working Decryption Tool and the how-to-use Manual.
– You will get our guarantees (with log provided) of non-recovarable deletion of all your leaked data.
– You will get our guarantees of secrecy and removal of all traces related to the deal in the Internet.
– You will get our security report on how to fix your security breaches.

4. HOW TO CONTACT US
In our contact form or mail:
Contact via Telegram ID: hxxps://t.me/Trustfiles
Write us to the mails: Trustfiles@skiff.com or Trustfiles@onionmail.org
Write this ID in the title of your message Your ID is on the files

5. EVIDENCE OF THE LEAKAGE
5.1 You can request sample files chat to review leaked data samples.
5.2 Contact us only in our Mails or Telegram, otherwise you can run into scammers.
5.3 All leaked Data samples will be Disclosed in 4 Days if you remain silent.
5.4 Your Decryption keys will be permanently destroyed at the moment the leaked Data is Disclosed.

6. RESPONSIBILITY
6.1 Breaking critical points of this offer will cause:
Deletion of your decryption keys.
Immediate sale or complete Disclosure of your leaked data.
Notification of government supervision agencies, your competitors and clients.

In some cases, hackers may decrypt a few small files (under 5MB, except for database files).

What Are .HIXJ Dragon Encrypted Files?

Files with the .HIXJ Dragon extension have been locked using advanced encryption techniques. This ransomware primarily affects:

Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.)
Audio files (.mp3, .wav, etc.)
Pictures (.jpg, .png, etc.)
Archives (.zip, .rar, etc.)
Documents (.docx, .pptx, etc.)
Other frequently used files.

Only the attackers possess the decryption key. Example:

Example.jpg.HIXJ Dragon

How to Remove TRUST FILES Virus

To get rid of TRUST FILES Virus, use a reliable anti-malware tool. Removing it manually is possible but requires advanced technical knowledge. The best approach is to run a full scan with a trusted anti-malware program to ensure complete removal and prevent future infections.

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.

Step 1: Scan for TRUST FILES with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.

Download

Malware Removal Tool

It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.

2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 2

3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 3

4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 4

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide

Step 2: Uninstall TRUST FILES 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:

1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear. delete ransomware from windows step 1

2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER. delete ransomware from windows step 2

3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall" delete ransomware from windows step 3

Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.

Step 3: Clean any registries, created by TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK. delete ransomware virus registries step 1

2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above. delete ransomware virus registries step 2

3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it. delete ransomware virus registries step 3

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.

IMPORTANT!
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 TRUST FILES

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!

We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows Key + R. remove ransomware in safe mode step 1

2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK. remove ransomware in safe mode step 2

3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK". remove ransomware in safe mode step 3

Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.

4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode. remove ransomware in safe mode step 4

5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen. remove ransomware in safe mode step 5

Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by TRUST FILES.

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:

stop ransomware decryptor step 1

2. Agree with the license terms:

stop ransomware decryptor step 2

3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:

stop ransomware decryptor step 3

4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.

stop ransomware decryptor step 4

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 TRUST FILES 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.

1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

EaseUS Data Recovery Software

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.

TRUST FILES-FAQ

What is TRUST FILES Ransomware?

TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES Infect?

Via several ways.TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES 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 .TRUST FILES files?

You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .TRUST FILES 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 .TRUST FILES files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

Can I Restore ".TRUST FILES" Files?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this TRUST FILES 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 TRUST FILES 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.

TRUST FILES Ransomware [.HIXJ virus] – Removal + Recovery