AAWT ransomware virus: The need to protect your computer
Contents
AAWT ransomware is a new virus that aims to encrypt all data on target computers. This new threat can infect any unprotected computer and render files on it absolutely unreadable. It was developed by cybercriminals behind the STOP/DJVU ransomware family, a group that has become notorious for developing a series of malware for ransom extortion purposes. After data encryption, .aawt extension would be added to every file name so encrypted ones can be easily detected. To explain it graphically, files that were previously saved as 1.jpeg or 2.jpg now transform to 1.jpeg.aawt or 2.jpg.aawt. In addition, the virus saves ransom notes in a form of a _readme.txt file.
Once the ransomware infects a computer, it will attack files first and then create ransom notes informing the victim that their files have become encrypted with the use of strong keys that can’t be decrypted except with their permission. Therefore, if the victim is desirous of retrieving their encrypted files, they must pay a a certain amount of money as ransom fees before beingn decryption tools.
To infect as many computers as possible, cybercriminals clone software copies that are highly sought after and upload them for free in malicious online torrent listings. Such illegal software contents might appear attractive to unsuspecting users who may believe they were getting a good deal by downloading needed software copies at little or no cost. However, going to a malicious online torrent platform is a huge risk that is not worth taking. Aside from malicious online torrents, cybercriminals equally spread AAWT malware via emails and attachments that were embedded with malware.
After creating such emails and the accompanying malware-carrying attachments, they would forward them to as many random addresses as possible. When using the fake email format, cybercriminals often impersonate popular brands such as Amazon, eBay, FedEx or DHL, among others, and pretend to send important transactional emails to the potential victim. Enticing terms such as Tracking Details, Invoice or Order Summary could be used to get the receiver into opening them to see what is inside. If those that receive it fall for it, and open them, they unwittingly end up unleashing malware on their computer system.
The ransom note demands money
_readme.txt is a ransom note informing the victim about the successful ransomware attack and why it has become necessary for the computer user to pay the ransom fee to enable one to receive AAWT file decryption tool. In an attempt to frighten the victim, the cybercriminals also warn that failure to pay the ransom fee automatically results in the permanent loss of all encrypted files.
Based on experience, cybercriminals know that most victims become rattled at this point, especially those that have no backup, so they typically forward their email address and an alternate one to the victim in anticipation of their response. The emails are: support@bestyourmail.ch and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.
For victims that reach out to them, an automated response will notify them about the amount to be paid as ransom and the terms of payment. Even though the ransom fee is said to be $980, they will promise that any victim that is able to pay within 72 hours of being informed to do so would be entitled to a 50% price slash, thereby bringing the ransom fee down to $490. However, there are other hurdles too.
Cybercriminals typically insist that payment must be made via cryptocurrency transfer. This is their favorite medium for receiving ransom payments because it protects their identity. Still, it might make things more difficult for the victim, especially those that are not knowledgeable about crypto use.
Regardless, payment of a ransom in any form is highly prohibited. The FBI and other cyber-security groups have advised victims not to pay a ransom. Here are some of the reasons they gave in condemnation of ransom payment:
- The law is against ransom payment.
- Cybercriminals don’t keep their promise to provide decryption tools even after receiving ransom payments.
- It encourages criminality.
- It helps cybercriminals to expand their operations.
- When you pay ransom, you make yourself vulnerable to future extortions.
This ransomware arrives in tandem with Trojans
AAWT ransomware virus also triggers the release of other dangerous malware known as RATs (i.e. Remote Access Trojans). RATs are used by cybercriminals in stealing sensitive personal information such as software login credentials, browsing history, and banking details among others. Two Trojans that are known to travel together with STOP/DJVU ransomware are VIDAR and AZORULT.
It is very important for ransomware victims to remove AAWT file-encrypting virus as soon as they can. It would help to reduce exposure and extended damages. For this matter, our team has prepared an extensive guide that is provided below the article. Additionally, we recommend that you use a combo or a genuine antivirus solution as well as RESTORO (secure download link), a tool that is useful when it comes to reparation of virus-damaged Windows OS files.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | AAWT Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here) |
| Version | 562nd |
| Extension | .aawt |
| 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 .aawt 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 virus locks files and appends new extensions as demonstrated in the screenshot provided below.
How to ensure your computer is safe at all times
Dangerous activities like going to malicious online torrent platforms, using P2P sharing options, and indiscriminate opening of emails/attachments should be totally avoided. Instead of seeking free but illegal software contents to download, you should rather do the right thing by downloading them through the official platforms.
We compiled a list of popular software contents cybercriminals usually pirate and use as a medium for distributing malware. Here we go:
- Adobe Illustrator;
- Microsoft Office;
- Corel Draw;
- Cubase;
- Fifa 20;
- VMware Workstation;
- AutoCad;
- League of Legends;
- Tenorshare 4ukey;
- Internet Download Manager;
- Adobe Premiere Pro.
In addition to the risky nature of downloading pirated software contents, those involved in this illegal act are also denying the original copyright owners, the right to earn from their products and that’s quite unfair. They invested a lot of resources in research and development of these software tools and deserve to earn their due profit. On the flip side, victims might suffer losses in terms of extortions, permanent data loss, distress and loss of valuable time.
Likewise, users should be extremely careful when checking their email inboxes. If you’re not convinced about the genuineness of an email, then you might as well avoid opening it. Computer owners should equally beware of files in XLS, PDF or DOCX formats because cybercriminals often exploit their ability to insert scripts, which enables them to embed malware in them. Such files could be carrying malware that becomes triggered once opened, so be sure of its source before opening them.
Removing AAWT Ransomware Virus & Other Safety Measures
It is very important to remove AAWT ransomware virus ASAP once it is detected in any computer. You should set up the infected computer via Safe Mode with Networking and also have strong antivirus software installed. Victims should also avoid any website that claim to have decryption tools because they’re mostly fraudulent and aimed at further scamming the victim. Only a couple of brands appear to have decryption tools that might work and they’re Emsisoft and DiskTuna.
Additionally, we recommend using RESTORO (secure download link) to repair virus-altered Windows OS components and files.
Now that your computer is free of AAWT ransomware virus, the following steps should be taken as well:
- All passwords used before the attack should be changed.
- Available backup should be used in restoring lost files.
- Inform relevant government agencies about the situation.
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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AAWT 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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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.
Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.
Decrypt AAWT files
Fix and open large AAWT 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 AAWT 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. AAWT Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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 AAWT 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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