Geek's Advice

BOOT ransomware virus is a strain of DJVU malware

BOOT ransomware virus is a file-encrypting malware from STOP/DJVU ransomware family (v0167). It encrypts all files on victim’s computer and connected cloud accounts using AES/RSA cryptography, making them impossible to open. The malware marks each file with .boot file extension and then creates a ransom note in _readme.txt file, which contains instructions regarding data recovery.

The ransom note left by ransomware developers informs the user that all photos, databases, documents and other files have been encrypted, and the only way to restore them is to pay a ransom in Bitcoin.

The criminals suggest sending some files to them to get them decrypted as a proof of the STOP/DJVU decryption tool’s functionality. There are two contact email addresses provided: gorentos@bitmessage.ch and gerentoshelp@firemail.cc.

The cybercriminals state ransom price rules same as in previously distributed NESA ransomware variant:

• If the victim pays within 72 hours after getting files encrypted with .boot file extensions, the ransom price is $490.
• If the victim fails to pay within 3 days, the ransom price doubles to $980.

The virus typically encrypts all files using ONLINE key (if it manages to connect to its command&control server). However, in some cases it might encrypt some files using OFFLINE key or a combination of both. Speaking of BOOT file decryption, it can be done only on files locked using OFFLINE key. You can also use your data backup to restore encrypted files.

However, in case your personal ID ends with t1, there might be some hope to restore your files because it indicates that files were locked with an OFFLINE key. See the main article about DJVU for decryption details.

In case your files were encrypted with ONLINE key, which is the most common way of encryption since each infected computer typically is connected to network – there are no BOOT decryption tools available.

There are no options to recover .boot file extension data encrypted by the virus using Volume Shadow Copies – the virus deletes them using a command prompt. It also runs these commands to stop particular Windows services and disable recovery options.

sc stop VVS
sc stop wscsvc
sc stop WinDefend
sc stop wuauserv
sc stop BITS
sc stop ERSvc
sc stop WerSvc
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe” /C vssadmin.exe Delete Shadows /All /Quiet

Beware of additional malware on your system

The STOP ransomware (also known as DJVU) is known to distribute additional malware called Azorult password-stealing Trojan Several victims have already reported that the attackers managed to steal their passwords and use their financial data illegally.

It is clear that if you want to avoid that, you must remove Boot ransomware virus along with all other threats from your PC immediately. Please follow the instructions given at the end of this article. After that, change all your important passwords (online shops you used recently, other accounts connected to your credit cards) IMMEDIATELY.

Content of the ransom note (_readme.txt or _openme.txt) is shown below.

ATTENTION!

Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
[removed link]
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
gorentos@bitmessage.ch

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
gerentoshelp@firemail.cc

Your personal ID:
0165hTlGeRsMTHVpwDk4Ylm4RWx1y69zcacA5hSp3l60BnYwdby

Boot ransomware note (_readme.txt)

Threat Summary

Name	BOOT ransomware virus
Type	Ransomware (STOP/DJVU family)
Ransom note	_readme.txt, _openme.txt
Ransom price	$490-$980
Encryption	AES combined with RSA
Decryption	Impossible; unless an offline key is used.
Distribution	Malicious emails, infected downloads
Removal	Remove using antivirus software

Ransomware distribution tactics

Boot ransomware, as well as the whole STOP/DJVU virus variants are known to reach the targets via classic malware distribution channels, such as:

• Malicious spam;
• Malicious links;
• Compromised ad networks;
• Compromised web pages.
• Illegal downloads.

Please be very careful when browsing online to avoid unexpected data loss. Cyber criminals are highly professional nowadays and they can obfuscate a malicious file almost without leaving no traces. Resist the temptation to open an interesting e-mail you received but never waited for – it is most likely a trap that will destroy all of your files.

One wrong click on an email attachment or malicious link can turn all your files useless, so please be extremely attentive what you open when browsing the world wide web. We suggest reading these ransomware prevention guidelines.

BOOT ransomware removal tips

You must remove BOOT ransomware virus instantly due to the privacy hazards it causes. Some variants of this malware spreads along with Azorult data-stealing Trojan, so we strongly recommend using a robust malware cleaner – antivirus.

Start Boot ransomware removal using the self-help guide given below. It is extremely important to use an up-to-date antivirus so that it could have this virus’ detection details. Once you get rid of the malware on your computer, start data recovery using a backup you have. If you don’t, there may be no ways to restore your files.

If that’s the case, we still do not encourage you to pay the ransom – cyber criminals aren’t the ones to be trusted, so even after paying you might never get your files back.

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:

GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

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This article was first published on September 29, 2019 and updated on October 3, 2019.