ADLG Ransomware virus: What does it do to your files?
Contents
ADLG ransomware virus is a file-encrypting computer malware that should be avoided at all costs. This virus is part of a STOP/DJVU ransomware series developed by an infamous group of cybercriminals. Their aim is to spread it to as many computers as possible using diverse deceptive methods. Once the virus infects any computer, it will encrypt all files contained in it i.e. make them unreadable by their owners. It will then append .adlg extension to every file in order to make them stand out. For instance, files that were previously named 1.png or 2.jpeg before the ransomware attack will now become 1.png.adlg or 2.jpeg.adlg.
Meanwhile, as these changes are occurring in the computer, the cybercriminals also release ransom notes called _readme.txt. These notes contain announcements that notify the victim about what has happened and why it has become essential for the victim to pay a certain amount of money as ransom.
The criminals claim that such ransom money is a prerequisite to enable the victim to receive decryption tools to reverse the encryption. They also create an impression that failure to pay the requested ransom fee means the encrypted files can never be recovered again. In hopes that victims would be alarmed enough to take action without delay, the criminals insert two emails into the ransom notes: support@sysmail.ch and supportsys@airmail.cc. This is the only contact information left from the criminals to the victim.
The helpless computer owner is now left with two alternatives; to forget about the data lost and use other available means to replace it, or seek the help of the cybercriminals behind the attack for possible reversal or decryption. For those that decide to reach out to the cybercriminals, an automated response will notify them that $980 is the ransom fee. However, they also promise to offer 50% ransom fee slash provided the victim can pay within 72 hours. The offer brings the cost down to $490, but they also revert to the maximum price when the victim fails to make the transfer on time.
The situation becomes more challenging when you factor in that payment can only be made via cryptocurrency transfer because cybercriminals do not accept any other payment method.
Nevertheless, victims are warned to desist from complying with the demands of cybercriminals. Here are some of the reasons top security organization such as FBI or UK NCSC gave to support their stance against paying the ransom:
- The law is against any form of ransom payment.
- It makes no difference and only benefits the cybercriminals since they hardly provide decryption tools that work, even after receiving payment.
- It encourages criminality by making it profitable.
- It enables the cybercriminals to enhance their capacity, thereby putting many others at risk.
- Those that pay the ransom are more vulnerable to future attacks.
Trojans dropped alongside the ransomware put your personal information at risk
It has to be pointed out that the primary objective of cybercriminals spreading ADLG ransomware virus may be to encrypt files and demand for ransom fee in exchange for decryption tools, but they also use the opportunity to additionally infect the system with RATs (abbreviation that stands for Remote Access Trojans).
As the name implies, cybercriminals use them to remotely gain access to critical personal data contained in the compromised computer such as banking details, cryptocurrency wallets, social security details, software login details, browsing history and other sensitive information they could leverage in perpetrating other criminal acts. An example of RAT is AZORULT Trojan.
If you’ve been affected by this file-encrypting threat, we recommend to remove ADLG ransomware virus and other threats installed alongside it. Our team relies on INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal and Windows protection, while RESTORO (download link) can provide a free scan to identify damage to Windows OS files that can be repaired automatically with the full version of the software.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | ADLG 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 | 570th |
| Extension | .adlg |
| 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 .adlg 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.
Diverse methods used by cybercriminals to spread ransomware
Cybercriminals make use of diverse deceptive methods in spreading ADLG ransomware virus and including emails with attachments, cloned software contents uploaded on malicious online torrents, and use of P2P in sharing malware-carrying pirated software contents, etc. They tend to clone popular software contents that are usually in high demand and embed malware on them before uploading them for mass free downloads.
The crooks take advantage of those that need essential software content but are not willing to get them legitimately by paying the fees requested by the copyright owners. Unfortunately for them, they end up exposing their computers to damaging malware infections that could result in file encryptions, data pilfering, and worse still, ransomware attacks/extortions.
In addition to that, it is quite unfair to make use of copyrighted software products developed by others without paying them. The brand owners that developed such software must have spent a lot of resources in its research and development. When they are used illegally, it negatively affects the investors and, by extension, the industry.
After observing the methods used by cybercriminals for a while, we were able to compile a list of popular software contents that are often cloned and used by cybercriminals in distributing malware, as shown below:
- Adobe Photoshop;
- Microsoft Office;
- WinRAR;
- Corel Draw;
- Internet Download Manager;
- Adobe Illustrator;
- Adobe Premiere Pro;
- League of Legends;
- AutoCad;
- Ummy Video Downloader;
- Tenorshare 4ukey.
Another method used by cybercriminals in spreading malware is via emails and attachments. In this case, what they do is to create emails with catchy captions alongside malware carrying attachments/links and massively distribute them to random addresses. It should be noted that cybercriminals often impersonate globally recognized brands like Amazon, DHL, eBay or FedEx among others. They also use enticing terms like Order Summary, Tracking Details or Invoice for the attachment. The reason why they go to such an extent is to make them more believable to their target victims.
It should also be noted that PDF, XLS and DOCX are some of the popular files now being exploited by cybercriminals. Some of these files have become handy tools used by cybercriminals because of their macro function abilities. Therefore, it is imperative to be cautious when such files are used as attachments.
For those that may have become victims of ADLG ransomware virus, it is in your best interest to stay away from dubious websites that advertise decryption tools because they’re mostly fake or ineffective. However, DiskTuna and Emsisoft are two helpful tools that are showing promising signs. You can read more on how to use these tools, and when these tools can be effective in this guide.
Remove ADLG ransomware virus and restore your data
It is imperative for victims to remove ADLG ransomware virus once it shows its presence in their computers. It will prevent further damage and also enable possible recovery. Ensure the computer is set up via Safe Mode with Networking option before running an antivirus on it. This option is recommended because it will limit other system operations, thus enabling the antivirus to function optimally. INTEGO Antivirus is highly recommended for this purpose. Afterward, you will also need to do the following:
- All passwords used on the computer should be changed immediately.
- Use your backup to recover lost data.
- Inform local police or relevant government agencies.
In conclusion, remember that by using your computer responsibly and making use of only original software contents sourced from the copyright owners or their authorized agents, you will be able to protect your computer against malware infections and subsequent ransomware attack. Also, make it a habit to always check the source of emails correctly to decipher if it is genuine or malicious in nature. Above all, ensure you have strong antivirus installed and running on your computer at all times.
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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ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG files
Fix and open large ADLG 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 ADLG 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. ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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 ADLG 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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