Venomous Virus
Data locker ransomware called Venomous virus is a computer infection that has been spotted in active attack campaigns. Hackers have developed this threat to use it to blackmail people for ransom payments.
The virus locks personal files on infected machines and leaves them inaccessible. For the encryption of personal files, Venomous ransomware uses a cipher algorithm that generates a special key for the reverse process – decryption.
To make it clear that a file has been corrupted by it, Venomous virus appends two additional suffixes to its name. First appears an alphanumeric ID number and then comes the .venomous extension.
Hackers demand a large amount of money to send the decryption tool to victims. All their requirements can be found in a file called SORRY-FOR-FILES.txt.
Keep reading to find out how to isolate Venomous ransomware on the system, remove its malicious files, and secure the infected PC.
Venomous Virus Summary
Name | Venomous |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
File Extensions | .[ID number].venomous |
Short Description | Severe malware that is designed to encrypt valualbe files stored on compromised computers so that it can then extort ransom fee from victims. |
Symptoms | Files are encrypted and their named are changed to randomly generated characters followed by the malicious extension .venomous Ransom message extorts a payment for files recovery. |
Ransom Demanding Note | SORRY-FOR-FILES.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by Malware Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
Venomous Ransomware – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
Venomous ransomware has been created and released in the wild with the goal to generate hackers revenue from ransom fees.
This malicious piece of code may try to run its files on PCs by presenting itself as a freeware installer, fake software update notification, important document attached to an email, advertisement, etc. The most widespread method used by hackers for the distribution of ransomware is malspam – emails that attempt to deliver malicious code on computer operating systems.
Emails part of such campaigns usually contain URL addresses and attached files. Links presented in malicious emails open corrupted web pages that host the ransomware code. Once opened in the browser those pages may directly deliver the ransomware to the system. The attached files are often stated to be important documents. Their load on the system can trigger an infection with Venomous ransomware too.
The moment Venomous ransomware loads on a target operating system, it initiates lots of malicious operations that enable it to:
- Evade detection;
- Misuse system functionalities;
- Encode valuable personal files.
Due to the complexity of the cipher algorithm used by Venomous virus to encode files, the latter remain inaccessible until their code is reverted back to its original state. Unfortunately, it is likely that you will be prevented from accessing the information stored by the following personal files:
- Audio files;
- Image files;
- Document files;
- Backup files;
- Video files;
- Banking credentials, etc.
One way to recognize a file that was encrypted by this nasty ransomware is its name. Most of the data locking ransomware including Guer virus, CHRB virus and Muuq virus transform the names of the files they encrypt. Venomous virus follows this pattern and renames files by appending two suffixes.
For example, following encryption, a file which is originally named 1.jpg will be renamed to 1.jpg.EOGUP7ZDEKR.venomous.
After encryption, Venomous ransomware creates a ransom note inside a text file. The note aims to convince you to contact hackers via their Telegram account or their email address. The file is named SORRY-FOR-FILES.txt and all it states can be seen below:
#What happened to your files?
All of your important files encrypted with AES-256 , is a powerful cryptography algorithm
For more information you can use Wikipedia.
Don’t rename or edit encrypted files because it will be impossible to decrypt your files***** How to recover files???? *****
Your main guarantee is the ability to decrypt test files.
This means that we can decrypt all your files after paying the ransom.You can upload a sample encrypted file on our site.
And your file will be decrypted. You can download it to test
You can only decrypt the sample file once.
This is to trust us that all your files will be decrypted
Be careful not to change the name before uploading the encrypted file.*** You need ti install Tor Browser ***
To access a . onion address, you’ll need to access it through the Tor Browser.
You can download tor browser from hxxps://www.torproject.org/downloadOur site address: hxxp://3udp4kspxiirvxop.onion/
*** send us a message in the Telegram messager ***
After sending bitcoins to us. We will send you your private key decryption program
For Trust You can Send us Test Files And We Decrypt That And Send To You.
To install Telegram, you can search in Google. Download Telegram.
Telegram website: hxxps://telegram.org
Telegram ID : hxxps://t.me/venomous_support
Your unique Id : –*** If telegram was not available for any reason ***
You can email us your encrypted sample file for decryption
Our email address: venomous.files@tutanota.com
Your unique Id : –**** What is Bitcoin? ***
Bitcoin is an innovative payment network and a new kind of money.
You can create a Bitcoin account at https://blockchain.info/ and deposit some money into your account and then send to us*** How to buy Bitcoin? ***
There are Many way to buy Bitcoin and deposit it into your account,
You can buy it with WesternUnion, Bank Wire, International Bank transfer, Cash deposit and etc
hxxps://localbitcoins.com —> Buy Bitcoin with WesternUnion or MoneyGram
hxxps://coincafe.com —> Buy Bitcoin fast and Secure with WesternUnion and Cash deposit
hxxps://www.bitstamp.net —> Buy Bitcoin with bank wire, International bank transfer, SEPA payment
hxxps://www.kraken.com —> Buy Bitcoin with bank wire, International bank transfer, SEPA payment
hxxps://www.kraken.com —> Buy Bitcoin with bank wire, International bank transfer, SEPA payment
hxxps://www.ccedk.com —> Buy Bitcoin with bank wire, International bank transfer, SEPA payment
hxxps://bitcurex.com/ —> Buy Bitcoin with bank wire, International bank transfer, SEPA paymentIf you want to pay with your Business bank account you should create a business account in exchangers they don’t accept payment from third party
We know that you need to restore .venomous files but we advise against following cybercriminals’ instructions. Your files may remain locked even after successful payment. Furthermore, giving money to cybercriminals will most likely motivate them to create new ransomware viruses or commit different criminal activities.
For the sake of your online security, we recommend that you clean your computer from present malicious files and wait for an eventual release of a free decryption tool. Meanwhile, you may want to consider the help of alternative data recovery methods.
Remove Venomous Ransomware Virus and Attempt to Restore Data
The so-called Venomous ransomware is a threat with highly complex code that heavily damages both essential system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your infected system securely again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For this purpose, you could follow our step-by-step removal guide.
In the event that you want to attempt to restore .venomous files with the help of alternative data recovery methods, do check the step – Try to Restore files encrypted by Venomous Ransomware. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before you begin with the recovery process.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Venomous Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Venomous 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 Venomous 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 Venomous 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 Venomous Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Venomous 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 Venomous 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.
Venomous Virus-FAQ
What is Venomous Virus Ransomware?
Venomous 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 Venomous 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 Venomous Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Venomous 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 Venomous 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 .Venomous Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Venomous 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 .Venomous Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Venomous Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Venomous 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 Venomous 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 Venomous Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Venomous 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 Venomous 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 Venomous Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Venomous 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 Venomous 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.
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