AABN Ransomware Virus: A New Computer Threat
Contents
AABN ransomware virus is a destructive piece of malware recently released by the notorious STOP/DJVU ransomware group. Once this virus invades a computer, it attacks files contained in it by way of encryption. After encrypting the files, it would equally append .aabn extension to each file in order to identify them. For example, a file saved as 1.png or maybe 2.jpeg before the attack automatically transforms to 1.png.aabn and 2.jpeg.aabn respectively. Once encrypted, data becomes impossible to open. To explain the intentions of the cybercriminals, the ransomware drops notes called _readme.txt in each folder.
From the look of things, this virus is equally aggressive and violent like the previous STOP/DJVU versions. However, its transmission mode largely remains the same, i.e., the criminals rely on traditional use of malicious online torrents, ambush emails and attachments. Their intention is to infect as many computers as possible using either of the methods mentioned above, encrypt files contained in such computers and afterward demand ransom under the guise of providing decryption tools.
To increase their chances of succeeding, cybercriminals usually pirate software content in high demand and upload it on malicious online torrents as a cheap or free alternative. Those that fall for the bait end up triggering ransomware attack.
Cybercriminals are equally known for using ambush emails and attachments to spread ransomware. In this method, they would create unsolicited emails and attachments, embed them with AABN ransomware virus, and distribute to as many random addresses as possible. When such malware-carrying emails/attachments are opened, they also trigger an attack. More details about how to prevent these attacks from occurring are provided in the subsequent paragraphs.
The ransom note suggests decryption software is the only way to restore data
Simultaneously, the virus also sends notes referred to as _readme.txt to the victims, informing them about the situation and why they have to pay ransom fees to receive decryption tools. They would threaten to keep data encrypted, except the victim complies with their demand. In order to open a channel of communication between both parties, two emails, namely, support@bestyourmail.ch and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc are provided in the note.
If the victim decides to write to them in the hopes of finding a solution, they would be informed that a ransom fee of $980 has to be paid. However, there is a caveat that victims willing or capable of paying within 72 hours of being notified can leverage a 50% price slash. In other words, $490 becomes acceptable provided that payment must be made within 3 days Max, but once it exceeds that period, the ransom fee reverts to $980.
In addition to the vast ransom fees and short notice, cybercriminals also insist that ransom fees must be paid using cryptocurrency. This makes the situation a lot more challenging for the victim. Cybercriminals do not accept any other payment method that they’re afraid that standard money transfer or bank payment usually leaves trails that can lead to their arrest, unlike crypto, which protects their identity.
Whatever be the case, ransomware attack victims are advised not to pay ransom to cybercriminals. It’s even better not to communicate with them in the first place. This idea is also supported by the FBI and other global security agencies. Here are some of the facts they dropped for being against ransom payment:
- Paying ransom isn’t encouraged by law enforcement agencies.
- There is no guarantee that victims would receive decryption tools even after paying a ransom.
- Paying ransom only encourages online rogues to continue in their criminality.
- More funds in cybercriminals’ hands help them expand their activities, thereby endangering others.
- Paying victims are often extorted again in the future.
Why is it important to run a system scan now
In addition the ransomware virus, there is also the risk of RAT’s infecting such compromised computers. RAT is an abbreviation that stands for Remote Access Trojans. It is slightly different from the primary ransomware virus because cybercriminals use it to pilfer sensitive personal information that may include software login credentials, banking details, browsing history, and cryptocurrency wallets could use to perpetrate further criminal acts. Two names of Trojans that usually travel alongside this file-encrypting threat are VIDAR and AZORULT.
These risk factors are the reasons why it is crucially important for victims to remove AABN ransomware virus. The best way to deal with this computer infection is to boot the system in Safe Mode with Networking (as explained in the tutorial below) and run a trustworthy antivirus. Afterward, we advise downloading RESTORO (secure download link) to repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | AABN Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD, JYPO (find full list here) |
| Version | 565th |
| Extension | .aabn |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@bestyourmail.ch, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| Additional malware dropped | Azorult or Vidar Trojan |
| Damage | The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .aabn extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online. |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico. |
| Known software cracks to contain this malware | Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, League of Legends. |
| Detection names | Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.MK!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link). |
REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE
Scan your system for FREE to detect security, hardware and stability issues. You can use the scan results and try to remove threats manually, or you can choose to get the full version of software to fix detected issues and repair virus damage to Windows OS system files automatically. Includes Avira spyware/malware detection & removal engine.
The image below shows how encrypted files appear in data folders along with a ransom note file.
Safety measures against this ransomware virus
There are certain activities computer users often get involved in that put their PC at risk of a ransomware attack. They include sourcing for software from online torrent platforms, the indiscriminate opening of emails, especially when they’re from questionable sources, and trying to software content using P2P platforms, among others.
It should be noted that cybercriminals can go the extra mile in their desperate attempts to catch their victims unawares. They can clone software contents, embed them with malware, and upload to online torrents or create emails with attachments, lace them with malware and distribute to lots of random addresses. Due to these threats, going to malicious online torrents or trying to open just any email/attachment that drops on your inbox are risky behaviors that should be avoided.
Some users head to online torrents because they don’t want to pay the fees requested by the original content producers. However, this is not a brilliant idea because the risks far outweigh the benefits i.e. if there is any benefit at all. To increase their chances of catching many victims, cybercriminals prefer to pirate only software contents that are in high demand. Please check the list below for some of the commonly pirated software contents:
- VMware Workstation;
- Adobe Photoshop;
- Corel Draw;
- Fifa 20;
- Tenorshare 4ukey;
- League of Legends;
- Adobe Premiere Pro.
Some of those getting involved in all these illegal acts don’t even acknowledge the implications of what they’re doing. Cybercriminals are online rogues using other brands products as bait to catch their victims. They’re not only endangering their potential victims but also denying corporate brands the opportunity to earn from their efforts.
It should be noted that it takes a lot of resources to research and develop some of these software contents, so when investors fail to make the necessary profit, the IT industry suffers for it. Those patronizing cloned software are also at significant risk of losing valuable time, essential files, and possibly vast amounts of money.
Also, PDF, XLS, or DOCX are some of the popular files now exploited by cybercriminals because of their macro function properties and thus should be opened with care.
On the other hand, victims of AABN ransomware attacks are advised to ignore rogue websites that claim to have tools for decryption because they’re mostly dubious. You can read about confirmed and secure methods to restore some files in a guide on our site.
How you can remove AABN ransomware virus
The earlier you remove AABN ransomware virus, the better for the victim in recovering or averting possible damages. Reputable software should be installed in any infected computer and fully scanned. Meanwhile, the PC owner should log in via Safe Mode with Networking before scanning to ensure an optimal result. Aside from antivirus software, we also recommend using RESTORO, a tool that can detect malware remains and repair virus damage inflicted on Windows OS files.
Here are other steps that should be taken as well:
- All passwords used in the infected computer should be immediately changed.
- Make use of any available backup to replace lost files.
- Inform the local police or any relevant government agency nearest to you.
OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND
Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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AABN Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove AABN Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube.
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- First of all, turn off your PC. Then press the Power button to start it again and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. This launches the Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Use arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate down to Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Open Windows Start menu, then press down the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then select Restart option.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. In this case, it is the F5 key.
Step 2. Remove files associated with the virus
Now, you can search for and remove AABN Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.
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Method 2. Use System Restore
In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically.
Step 1. Boot Windows in Safe Mode with Command Prompt
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- Shut down your PC. Start it again by pressing the Power button and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. You will see Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Using arrow keys on the keyboard, navigate down to Safe Mode with Command Prompt option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Launch Windows Start menu, then click the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then choose Restart option with the mouse cursor.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt. In this case, press F6 key.
Step 2. Start System Restore process
- Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
- Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter. Or you can just type %systemroot%system32restorerstrui.exe in command prompt and hit Enter.
- This launches System Restore window. Click Next and then choose a System Restore point created in the past. Choose one that was created before ransomware infection.
- Click Yes to begin the system restoration process.
After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won't be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.
Alternative software recommendations
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.
System Mechanic Ultimate Defense
If you're looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek's Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.
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Decrypt AABN files
Fix and open large AABN files easily:
It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.
- Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
- Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the AABN extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
- In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
- Try opening the file.
STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide
STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. AABN Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD, JYPO (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie.
Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible.
In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt AABN files, follow the given tutorial.
- Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
- Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
- Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
- In UAC window, click Yes.
- Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
- The tool will automatically include C:// disk as a location to decrypt. The file recovery tool will prepopulate the locations to scan, including connected data storage drives or network drives. Click Add folder if you wish to add additional locations.
In Options tab, you can choose to keep encrypted file copies. We recommend leaving this option selected, especially if you do not know if the decryption tool will work. - Click Decrypt to start restoring AABN files. You will see the progress in the Results tab. Here, you can see messages from the tool, such as whether the decryption procedure is successful, or you need to wait for an update.
You might also be informed that online key was used to encrypt your files. In such case, the decryption tool won't work for you, and the only way to recover your files is to use a data backup.
Meanings of decryptor's messages
The AABN decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages:
Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID]
This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor's database.
No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]
Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible
This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible.
Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]
This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.
If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn't available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your AABN extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.
Report Internet crime to legal departments
Victims of AABN Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:
- In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.
- In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.
- In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.
- In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.
- In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.
- In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.
- In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
- In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.
If you can't find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up "[your country name] report cyber crime". This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities.
Another recommendation is to contact your country's or region’s federal police or communications authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can only open AABN files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.
To figure out whether you were affected by offline encryption, please go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and see if the string inside of it ends in t1. You can also try using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP/DJVU.
Please follow the guidances provided by the official AABN decryption tools and believe what they say. If they say it is impossible to decrypt, it really is so. There is no magic tool or human capable of decrypting your files hiding somewhere. Encryption is a technique created to be nearly impossible to decrypt without a special private key (held by the criminals).
We advise scanning with anti-virus, anti-malware, malware removal tools or software like RESTORO to eliminate virus damage on the system. If you do not trust using a single tool, try running one after another. However, we do not recommend keeping several security programs on a computer at once as they can interfere with each other's work.
Beware of fake AABN decryption tools circulating around the web. Cyber criminals are uploading them to various shady websites, also might be promoting them via suspicious Youtube videos. These programs can infect your computer even more heavily (Trojans, miners, etc.). We suggest being extremely cautious around the web. If there will be an official STOP/DJVU decryption tool available, it will be widely discussed in public media.
Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.
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