Geek's Advice

New Dharma ransomware version appends .data file extension to encrypted files

Security researchers have recently discovered a new variant of Dharma ransomware family that uses .data file extension to lock all documents on the computer. The affected files are appended with a string of extensions in the following pattern: the original name of the file, specific victim’s ID, e-mail address, and .data extension. The encrypted document would look like this — “document.doc.id-1E857D00.[data@recovery.sx].data”. Victims then are prompted to read the FILES ENCRYPTED.txt ransom note and reach out via data@recovery.sx e-mail address.

Usually, the ransomware starts an encryption process right after the infection. Just as other variants, like GYGA ransomware, this particular cyber threat uses the combination of asymmetric and symmetric cryptographic algorithms to lock files. In other terms, it is a highly robust encryption process that requires a unique .data (Dharma) virus decryption key to unlock affected files. Otherwise, they remain unusable for regular activities.

Cybercriminals state that victims should not worry as the encrypted data can be restored. For that, they ask to contact them by e-mailing to the given address immediately. Attackers promise to get back within 12 hours. If users do not get a response, they are insisted to reach out again. Additionally, victims must include their unique ID for the attackers to be able to identify them. This information is provided in the ransom note that appears as a text file.

The developers of this ransomware do not specify the demanded amount of the ransom right away. Although, examining previous infections by this ransomware family, the ransom can rage from a few hundred up to a thousand US dollars. Just as with other file-encrypting viruses, attackers ask to transfer money exchanged to a cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin. Cryptocurrency payments are significantly harder to trace. Thus, this way cybercriminals can protect their identities.

Criminals have further demands

Despite from demanding to pay the ransom, the crooks also specify not to change encrypted file names and do not try using alternative decryption tools. Otherwise, they threaten to increase the price of the decryptor or it may lead to permanent data loss. Therefore, they try to not leave any other choice for their victims rather than agree to pay the ransom for the attackers. This is a common technique that helps to intimidate confused computer users and help the criminals to gain monetary benefits.

However, trusting cybercriminals is not only reckless but also facilitates the development of further infections. Our security team suggests you to remove .data (Dharma) ransomware virus immediately. After the elimination, you can try to restore locked files by using backup copies from the Cloud or wait for the release of verified decryption tools by malware researchers.

For .data (Dharma) removal we suggest using professional malware removal tool of your choice. To repair virus damage on the system, consider scanning with RESTORO.

Ransomware Summary

Name	.data (Dharma) ransomware
Type	File-encrypting virus, Crypto-malware, File locker
Family	Dharma
Other versions	GYGA, SMPL
Extension	.data
Ransom note	FILES ENCRYPTED.txt
Contacts	data@recovery.sx
Amount of the ransom	Unspecified, can range from $100 up to $1000 in Bitcoins
Symptoms	Files that are locked can no longer be accessed by the computer user; Victims receives a ransom note in the form of a text file
Distribution	Malicious e-mails, Illegal downloads on peer-to-peer (P2P) networks
Decryption	The safest way to restore files is by using the latest backup copies
Removal	Remove the virus using anti-malware software. For virus damage repair, scan with RESTORO right away; Check instructions at the end of this article

Discussing ransomware distribution methods

Ransomware does not appear on the computer without the human factor. In other terms, users’ reckless activity while browsing the Internet lead to ransomware infiltration. Cybercriminals aim to disguise malware and trick people into installing it on their systems by themselves. For that, they either use peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing networks or malicious spam e-mail campaigns.

Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are generally used to illegally distribute legitimate software. Since the crooks spotted high interest in such sites, they decided to exploit if for their own benefit. They upload ransomware executables and rename them as well-known software cracks. Likewise, unsuspecting computer users believe that they are downloading programs. Unfortunately, they install ransomware-type infections. Therefore, it is essential to stop using illegal file-sharing websites if you want to protect your computer.

Furthermore, criminals discovered that many people do not pay attention while opening e-mails. Attackers designed electronic letters that seem to come from popular companies or even banks. They urge the users to update their details by clicking on the appended link. Although, the link is programmed to start an automatic installation of ransomware. Thus, people who open spam e-mail risk to infect their systems.

.data (Dharma) ransomware virus removal guide

Ransomware-type infection is the most dangerous one that can be encountered by a regular computer user. Also, it is the only one that cannot be uninstalled manually. You must remove .data (Dharma) ransomware virus by getting an in-person help from a professional or using a robust malware removal software. It is the only way to safely clean your system and ensure that you might be able to restore the encrypted information.

For .data (Dharma) removal we highly recommend using automatic removal tool. You must run a full system scan to get rid of all malware-related components. Later, RESTORO is a useful tool to fix virus damage and protect your computer from various cyber threats in the future.

You can find instructions on how to start the elimination procedure below. These instructions will explain how to boot your computer into safe mode and indicate the removal steps that must be followed. Afterward, you can proceed to restoring your files from backup copies.

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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System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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