What Is Unknown Virus?
Unknown ransomware virus is a type of malicious software that is designed to encrypt a victim’s files and demand payment in exchange for restoring access. The virus can be spread through malicious email attachments, infiltrated networks, and malicious websites. The virus will usually demand a ransom payment in the form of cryptocurrency or other online payment methods. Victims should never pay the ransom, as there is no guarantee that the files will be restored. Instead, good security practices can help protect against infection or, if already infected, best practices for recovering from a ransomware attack should be followed.
Unknown Virus – Why Is My Windows Infected?
Unknown ransomware viruses are malicious programs that are designed to extort money from victims by encrypting their data and denying them access to it until a ransom is paid. They can be spread in a variety of ways, including through malicious emails, obfuscated files, malicious websites, and unsecured networks. People can get infected with these viruses if they do not properly protect their computers and networks, or if they unknowingly download malicious software.
Unknown Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
The following methods are the main attack methods used by these viruses:
- If it is sent to you as an e-mail attachment or a URL.
- By being downloaded from a shady site.
![Unknown Virus Ransomware [.unknown Files] Removal + Recovery](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/unknown-virus-files-remove-300x169.jpg)
Unknown Virus – What Does It Do?
Unknown viruses can wreak havoc on your computer, allowing hackers to access and steal data, corrupt files, or even use your computer to launch attacks on other computers. These viruses can spread quickly, so it’s important to take action as soon as you notice one on your machine.
After infection, this malware may also drop its virus files, also known as payload files in the following directories:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
This virus may also set different value entries in the Windows Registries, like in the Run and RunOnce sub-keys, for example.
The ransom note of this malware is in two file types, called info.txt and info.hta and the has the following contents:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail masterfix@tuta.io
Write this ID in the title of your message –
If you do not receive a response within 24 hours, please contact us by Telegram.org account: @Stop_24
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 5 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 4Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
Text file’s contents:
!!!All of your files are encrypted!!!
To decrypt them send e-mail to this address: masterfix@tuta.io.
If we don’t answer in 24h, send messge to telegram: @Stop_24
What Are .Unknown Files
Unknown virus is the type of malware, that may encrypt your files using an AES encryption algorithm. The main files it targets could be of the following kinds:- Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Audio (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Picture file kinds (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Archive file formats (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Documents of different types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Others.
How to Open .Unknown Files
To open unknown encrypted files, you’ll need to find a suitable decryption program that can decrypt the file and make it readable. Most decryption programs are compatible with different types of encryption, so it’s important to find one that can open your particular type of file, however cybercriminals make it very difficult to do so, because their only goal is for you to pay the ransom.
What To Do If My Files Are .Unknown?
If your files are encrypted by ransomware, the best thing you can do is contact a certified IT security specialist, familiar with the virus’s cipher to help you recover your files and prevent the ransomware from attacking your system again. Additionally, you should keep your operating system and other software up to date to ensure your system is protected.
Unknown Virus – Details
| Name | Unknown virus |
| File Extension | .unknown |
| 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 Unknown Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .Unknown extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | info.txt, info.hta |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
How To Protect Windows from Unknown In The Future?
To protect Windows from unknown ransomware in the future, it is important to ensure that all software is updated regularly, use secure passwords, use reliable anti-malware software, backup data regularly, and be aware of suspicious emails or downloads. Also, in case of ransomware viruses, you should know how you can safely store your files to protect them from ransomware.
How to Remove Unknown Virus?
Removing Unknown ransomware virus can be a tricky process. It is important to first identify the virus and then obtain a reputable anti-virus program to help you remove it. You should also make sure to back up important data and documents in case the virus corrupts them. Additionally, make sure to update your operating system, as well as any security programs you may have. Finally, use a reliable malware removal tool to help you get rid of the virus along with the guide beneath.
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Unknown with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Unknown 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 Unknown 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 Unknown 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 Unknown
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Unknown.
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 Unknown 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.
Unknown-FAQ
What is Unknown Ransomware?
Unknown 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 Unknown 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 Unknown Infect?
Via several ways.Unknown 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 Unknown 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 .Unknown files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Unknown 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 .Unknown files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Unknown" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Unknown 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 Unknown 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 Unknown ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Unknown 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 Unknown 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 Unknown Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Unknown 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 Unknown 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.