What Is Vvew virus?
Vvew virus is a malware, that is known as ransomware and is called STOP/DJVU. Its main purpose is to get inside your computer system and silently scan for and encrypt your files, this preventing you from accessing them. In return, the virus developers want you to pay them a ton of money in the form of the cryptocurrency Bitcoin as they leave a ransom note, which is dropped after the infection and is called _readme.txt.
Check out this article to get more details about what this virus does, how it got inside your computer system in the first place and what it is that you can do to remove it and get your files to work again.
Vvew Virus Summary
Name | Vvew virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB – more detections of this virus on VirusTotal |
File Extension | .vvew |
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 Vvew Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .Vvew extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
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Vvew Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
Vvew virus is the kind of malware that just like the recently seen DJVU virus variants, such as Vtym, Yoqs and Ftym may also appear on your computer by using two main infection methods.
The first one is if you have received the virus via email. If this is the case, then the malware may end up on your device pretending to be a legitimate document of some sort, like the following:
- Invoices.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
- Work-related files.
- Receipts.
Vvew virus may infect you using such documents by using malicious macro scripts that are embedded in the document itself and are activated once you click on “Enable Content”:
Vvew virus can also end up on your computer system by being downloaded from some type of suspicious site, like a software download one. If this is the case, then the malware may end up on your device, pretending to be an executable, like the following reported ones:
- Self extracting archives or regular archives.
- Fake installation files.
- Software patches.
- Cracked portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
- Key generator (or Keygen).
Vvew Virus – What Does It Do?
Vvew virus may firstly establish a connection to the commanding control service of the cybercriminals that are behind this threat. This may allow the crooks to silently download the malicious payload files of this infection and locate them in some of the following Windows directories under random names:
- %LocalLow%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %System%
- %system32%
The virus also leaves behind a ransom note file, also known as the _readme.txt one and its main purpose is to be easily noticed by the victim because it contains the instructions on how you can be the crooks:
Vvew virus could also attack the “Run” and “RunOnce” Windows Registry Sub-keys, plus some other too:- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Attacking those particular sub-keys in Windows allows this malware to run automatically on Windows startup.
What Are .vvew Files
The .vvew files are the encrypted copies of the original victim files attacked by this ransomware. Vvew virus may use the AES encryption algorithm to change the data of the files and removing the extension will not fix them. Two types of decryption keys may be generated as a result of that, and they are both online and offline. If the key is online, then it is much harder to decrypt your files.
The main files that are encrypted by this virus can be of the following kinds:
- Audio (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Picture file kinds (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archive file formats (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Documents of different types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Others.
Vvew virus leaves the files looking like the following after it scrambles them:
Picture.jpg.vvew
How to Remove Vvew Virus?
Vvew virus can be removed if you delete its malicious files and objects from your computer, for which the removal guide below should be able to help you with. If you want the most effective solution, then we advise you to follow experts recommendations and scan your computer automatically using a professional anti-malware software. This is the kind of program, which has been specifically made with the main idea in mind to detect and delete any malicious objects and files from your computer system, plus protected in the future against such viruses.
How to Decrypt .vvew Files?
The .vvew files can be decrypted if they have an off-line decryption key. To do this, you should follow the STOP Ransomware File Decryption Guide or the video guide beneath. In case your key is online, then do not despair. We have also managed to create an alternative full recovery option, which is in the guide below. It may not be 100% chance of getting all your files back, but would it help you may be able to restore at least some of them.
Video guide for using the STOP Ransomware Decryptor:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Vvew with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Vvew 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 Vvew 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 Vvew 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 Vvew
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Vvew.
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 Vvew 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.
Vvew-FAQ
What is Vvew Ransomware?
Vvew 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 Vvew 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 Vvew Infect?
Via several ways.Vvew 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 Vvew 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 .Vvew files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Vvew 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 .Vvew files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Vvew" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Vvew 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 Vvew 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 Vvew ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Vvew 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 Vvew 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 Vvew Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Vvew 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 Vvew 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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