Ransomware

Remove DARJ Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .darj FILES)

DARJ ransomware locks each file on computer and demands a ransom

DARJ ransomware has been discovered by our team during analysis of malware samples submitted to VirusTotal. It is a malicious computer virus that is designed to encrypt all files on a computer and append .darj extension to filenames. The characteristics of this malware reveal that it is a new variant coming from the STOP/DJVU ransomware family, and it also uses _readme.txt file as a ransom note. The virus drops this note in each file directory to deliver a message for the computer user.

To illustrate how this malware renames files, see following examples: files originally named 1.jpg, 2.rar and 3.png will be converted to 1.jpg.darj, 2.rar.darj, 3.png.darj and, once encrypted, no program will be capable of opening them.

The ransomware explains the intentions of its operators in _readme.txt files. The criminals state that the only way to restore files is paying a ransom to them. The note contains two email addresses that were seen in previous STOP/DJVU attacks: support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.

The criminals say that the price of DARJ file decryption tool and unique key required to unlock files is $980, however, they may provide 50% discount for those who contact the criminals within 3 days. As stated in the ransom note, if the computer user writes an email to the attackers within 72 hours after being hit by the ransomware, the decryption tool price drops to $490.

As usual, cybercriminals demand the victim to send the money via cryptocurrency, as it is a secure, speedy and anonymous method to transfer funds. It also prevents law enforcement agencies from identifying the criminals.

We do not recommend paying the ransom due to several reasons. First of all, it doesn’t give you any guarantees that data will be restored and there will be no refunds, either. Second, it encourages cybercriminals to continue their operations. Third, cybercriminals tend to memorize victims who paid up and they might try to target you in future attacks or try to extort more money from you after the initial payment is made. For more recommendations, we recommend reading these guidelines by FBI.

More details: encryption, additional malware, and other damage caused by the ransomware

DARJ ransomware is part of STOP/DJVU ransomware family, and a lot of details regarding its operations have been revealed over time. First of all, like typical file-encrypting malware, it deletes Volume Shadow Copies from the system to block victim’s attempts to restore some files for free.

Moreover, some versions of this ransomware modify Windows HOSTS file to prevent the victim from visiting online resources that provide help and guidance for ransomware victims. Attempts to visit such websites might trigger DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error in web browser.

The ransomware uses offline and online key strategy to encrypt files on victim’s computer. Normally, once the virus launches on a computer, it attempts to establish connection with its Command&Control server. If the connection is available, the virus requests a unique encryption key for the newly infected host, and encrypts all files with it. There will be no duplicate key in such scenario, so the victim’s files will be encrypted with unique online key that can be decrypted with a matching decryption key only.

In cases where the virus fails to connect to its server, it reverts to so-called offline mode, and uses a hardcoded offline encryption key instead. Therefore, all computers that had unstable Internet connection during the attack, or the C&C server was down at the time of the request will be affected with identical offline encryption key. There is one decryption key for the offline key victims, which increases the chances to unlock data for free as explained in this guide for STOP/DJVU victims.

In addition, this ransomware usually arrives with a bunch of information-stealing malware, however, this fact isn’t mentioned in the ransom note. DARJ virus samples usually are accompanied by Vidar, RedLine, and AZORult Trojans. These dangerous stealers can extract sensitive information that includes saved passwords, cryptocurrency wallets, banking details, browsing history, and other data. The criminals can also control Trojans remotely and execute tasks such as view files on victim’s computer folders, delete them, or download additional malware to the system.

It is important to remove DARJ ransomware virus and additional threats dropped alongside it as soon as possible. If you have noticed this ransomware on your computer, use the guide provided below to delete its components from the system. We highly recommend using INTEGO Antivirus for the removal, and download RESTORO to repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

NameDARJ Ransomware Virus
TypeRansomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
FamilySTOP/DJVU
Encryption typeRSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versionsJYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (find full list here)
Version668th
Extension.darj
Cybercriminal emailssupport@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware droppedAzorult, RedLine or Vidar
DamageThe ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .darj 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
DistributionVictims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico.
Known software cracks to contain this malwareCorel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends.
Detection namesTrojan:Win32/Azorult.FW!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
RemovalRemove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link).

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STOP/DJVU ransomware distribution techniques

STOP/DJVU ransomware type infections usually occur when users visit untrustworthy websites and download questionable content from them. To be specific, variants like DARJ virus await in various cracked software versions or other illegally distributed copyright-protected content. So if you’re someone who tries to save money by obtaining illegal software versions, you’re putting your computer at risk of getting infected with severe ransomware.

There is a network of rogue websites that computer users stumble upon after entering a search query in most popular online search engines. These sites appear in search engine results and promise too-good-to-be-true downloads, such as Adobe Photoshop/AutoCAD/Tenorshare 4ukey cracks and similar. The deceptive websites provide these downloads either in a form of a torrent file or a direct download.

Unfortunately, opening the alleged setup.exe file hidden in a password-protected archive launches the payload and harmfully modifies each personal file stored on the system. This is the reason why computer users should only trust legitimate and official websites when trying to download and install desired software version.

Another distribution method that is closely tied with STOP/DJVU attacks is malicious email spam. Cybercriminals craft up convincing emails that claim there is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately, and attach allegedly related documents to it. The threat actors usually hide the malicious code in Microsoft Word, OneNote or PDF files. Therefore, computer users are advised to stay cautious when checking their emails, and avoid opening email attachments sent by unsolicited senders.

Remove DARJ ransomware virus and protect your computer

Users infected with the described malware variant should not delay its removal procedure. Our team has prepared in-detail instructions on how to remove DARJ ransomware virus securely. Follow the steps outlined below to get rid of malware and protect your computer from future attacks.

In addition, once the malware is gone, we recommend changing all of your passwords used on the compromised computer. This helps to prevent cybercriminals from hacking your accounts. Furthermore, you may consider reporting the cybercrime incident to local law enforcement entities.

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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:

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RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically.

RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

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DARJ 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 DARJ 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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 DARJ 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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
  1. Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

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Decrypt DARJ files

Fix and open large DARJ 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.

  1. Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
  2. Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the DARJ extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
  3. In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
  4. Try opening the file.

STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide

STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. DARJ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like JYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (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 DARJ files, follow the given tutorial.

  1. Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
  2. Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
  3. Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
  4. In UAC window, click Yes.
  5. Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
  6. 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.
  7. Click Decrypt to start restoring DARJ 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 DARJ 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 DARJ 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 DARJ Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:

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

✓ How can I open .DARJ files?

You can only open DARJ files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

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.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official DARJ 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).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

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.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake DARJ 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.

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