What Is Vassago Virus
Vassago virus is the name of a ransomware infection, whose main purpose is to attack your personal files. The virus aims to get in your computer and then use different types of means to render your files to a no longer openable state, adding the .vassago extension in the process. The end result is that the victim starts seeing a ransom note file, called readme-warning.txt, which contains the instructions of this virus. This note’s main purpose is to get you to pay a huge ransom fee to the cyber-criminals and the payment is likely done in BitCoin.
Read this article to learn more concerning Vassago ransomware, plus see ways to get rid of this nasty threat from your computer.
Vassago Virus Summary
Name | Vassago, also known as Trojan.Razy.D9250C, Gen:Variant.Razy.599308, Gen:NN.ZexaF.34804.cuW@aSsCipfi, W32/Phobos.E!tr.ransom, Trojan.Win32.Save.a, BScope.TrojanSpy.Zbot – VirusTotal |
File Extension | [UniqueID].[vassago_0203@tutanota.com].vassago |
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 Vassago ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .vassago extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | readme-warning.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Vassago virus. |
Vassago Virus – What We Know About It
Vassago virus is a typical ransomware infection. Just like other viruses of its kind, it may also end up being on your computer by either being sent to you via e-mail or being downloaded from some shady site, posing as a legitimate program. Other viruses, like Vassago we have recently encountered include the Mifr, TerrorWare and OVO ransomware.
If sent to you via e-mail, the Vassago infection file could seem like it is some sort of a “must see” document, like something work related, a file from your bank, a ticket or something similar.
Once you download and run the virus file, infection with this ransomware virus is inevitable. It may run silently and drop the its virus files in the following Windows directories:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %AppData%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
As soon as Vassago ransomware is added to your computer, it may start to perform the following virus activities:
- Obtain administrator permissions.
- Get info on your region and language.
- Delete the shadow copies of Windows.
- Check if it has already infected your PC before.
- Add value strings in Run and RunOnce registries.
- Delete the backups and shadow copies of Windows.
- Disable any recovery services.
Once this ransomware is set up, it may start to scan your computer for files to encrypt. It may look for the following types of files, based on their file extensions:
- Videos.
- Documents.
- Pictures.
- Music files.
- Archive file types.
- Backup files.
- Database files.
- Virtual drive file types.
As soon as the virus has encrypted all detected files, it may leave its ransom note file. It is called readme-warning.txt and has the following message oriented towards victims:
.Vassago Files
Vassago ransomware is the type of virus that is created to change the structure of your files, using a sophisticated encryption mode. This not only ads the .vassago extension, but makes the file seem broken:
After encryption, the virus generates a unique decryption key. The same is used to get the files back to a normal working state and is “sold” to you by the same crooks who infected you and ask you to pay ransom. Paying is NOT advisable, since you lay your trust in those very same criminals.
Remove Vassago Virus and Try to Restore Files
You can delete Vassago virus from your computer if you follow the removal instructions that are posted underneath this article. They are made so that they can help you get rid of this ransomware methodologically. For best removal, we urge you to download and run a scan with a professional anti-malware software. Experts recommend using such tools because they scan your computer thoroughly and delete any forms of malware plus protect it in the future.
To try and get .vassago files back, we suggest that you check out the file recovery steps in the guide below. They contain all the necessary information concerning how to attempt recovering your files using alternative means.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Vassago virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Vassago virus 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Vassago virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Vassago virus.
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 Vassago virus 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.
Vassago virus-FAQ
What is Vassago virus Ransomware?
Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus Infect?
Via several ways.Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus 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 .Vassago virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Vassago virus 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 .Vassago virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Vassago virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Vassago virus 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 Vassago virus 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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