Remove EKVF Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .ekvf FILES)
EKVF ransomware targets to encrypt all personal files on your computer
Contents
EKVF ransomware is a confirmed 287th version of STOP/DJVU file-encrypting computer virus that targets Windows operating systems. After being run, it showcases fake Windows update screen for the victim and at the same time scans the system and RSA-encrypts all victim’s personal files. After encrypting the file, the virus is set to assign additional .ekvf extension to it to mark already infected files. For example, a file named 1.jpg becomes 1.jpg.ekvf after the encryption. The ransomware also creates _readme.txt file in every affected folder to deliver a threatening message from the cybercriminals. This ransom note suggests that the victim has to contact the criminals via provided emails – helpteam@mail.ch or helpmanager@airmail.cc. The criminals suggest that if the victim contacts them within 3 days, the data decryption tools will cost $490 in Bitcoin. Otherwise, the ransom price rises to $980.
The ransom note (the _readme.txt file) holds a message that describes what happened to personal files and offer a solution to current situation. The attackers admit that the malicious program has encrypted all files, including photos, videos, music and video files as well as other formats. The note suggests that files were modified using “the strongest” encryption and that the only way to restore them is to purchase EKVF decryption tool from them. In other words, the attackers take your files hostage and demand paying a ransom.
EKVF ransomware virus developers also encourage the victim to test the decryption tool first by sending one encrypted file to them. They warn not to send large file as they fear the information stored in it might be the most important for the victim and prevent one from paying the whole ransom at all. However, cybersecurity experts strictly advise against ransom payments due to variety of reasons, some of them listed below.
- Paying the ransom doesn’t guarantee data decryption. The criminals might try to extort you more after receiving the first payment.
- The decryption tool provided by the criminals might be faulty and not decrypt all of your files.
- Paying the ransom means supporting the criminals who already collect millions in ransoms each year.
- Ransom payments are illegal in some countries.
The ransomware silently drops password-stealing Trojan on the system
EKVF ransomware tends to silently install a password-stealing Trojan known as AZORULT on the compromised system. Surely, the attackers don’t mention it in the ransom note. This malicious program is known for its versatile functionalities that include stealing mail client passwords (Outlook, Thunderbird) as well as FTP client passwords (Filezilla, WINSCP), IM clients, cryptocurrency client files, browser cookies, Steam and Telegram data, Skype session IDs, taking desktop screenshots and more.
The virus ensures that collected data gets sent to criminals Command&Control server along with infected host’s IP address. Access to such sensitive information allows the attacker reach more information about the user, target it using various scams and phishing schemes, send malware via malspam and perform other illegal activities – it all depends on the attacker’s creativity. For this reason, it is essential for you to remove EKVF ransomware virus along with AZORULT as soon as possible and make your computer secure again. We recommend using professional malware removal program for this task. In addition, we suggest downloading and running system scan with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files.
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.
Threat Summary
| Name | EKVF Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Previous versions | VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (find full list here) |
| Version | 287th |
| Extension | .ekvf |
| Damage | This ransomware uses RSA encryption algorithm to lock files found on target computer, marks them with additional extension. The virus reportedly downloads AZORULT Trojan to steal information from the infected PC. The virus also runs Command Prompt commands to delete Volume Shadow Copies. The ransomware adds a list of domains to Windows HOSTS file. This prevents the victim from reaching virus-related information online. |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | The malicious payload hides in a variety of torrent downloads, such as software cracks, keygens or KMSPico. |
| Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Glupteba (Microsoft), Glupteba.Backdoor.Bruteforce.DDS (Malwarebytes), TR/AD.InstaBot.ysgps (Avira), HEUR:Exploit.Win32.Shellcode.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Variant.Midie.79167 (B)(Emsisoft), see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | To remove ransomware, consider using anti-malware software, then we suggest scanning with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files. |
Ransomware distribution tricks: how to avoid getting infected
EKVF ransomware distribution relies on a technique that’s been used for a while by STOP/DJVU group. Viruses from this malware family tend to hide in illegal torrent downloads, mostly various software or game cracks. Many victims reported downloading it via malicious Adobe Photoshop, game or video editing software torrents. Others informed about malicious KMSPico versions spreading this crypto-virus. That said, it is clear that threat actors are creating fake torrents and uploading them to various file sharing websites. Once the victim opens the malicious file posing as a crack or keygen, a script in it connects to an external resource, downloads and runs the ransomware on the system.
Such ransomware (and malware in general) distribution technique is successful not only because of victim’s desire to install a premium software version for free, but also because of one’s courage to ignore security software’s warnings not to open the file. The reason is that users have a tendency to ignore antivirus’ warnings when it comes to software cracks, because they believe these alerts are simply false alarms. Unfortunately, cracks are often full of malicious additions, such as spyware or silent malware (cryptocurrency miners, Trojans, RATs and similar).
Other popular and well-known malware distribution method is malicious email spam. Nowadays, criminals get really creative when it comes to creating a convincing email message for the victim. During COVID-19 pandemic, criminals have started sending fake parcel deliver email, pretending to be someone from DPD, DHL, UPS or other reputable companies. Therefore, you should be extremely careful and avoid opening such email, especially if you didn’t order anything online.
Other malicious spam campaigns suggest opening an attached document related to missing/pending payment, or ask to review attached invoice. Unfortunately, even if the document looks like a simple document (Word, PDF or another format), it can still contain a malicious script that downloads the malicious payload. In fact, cybercriminals improve every day and find new ways to inject malware even in safe-looking file formats.
Final but no less popular malware distribution technique is maliciously modifying software update installer and advertising it via malicious ads online. Such ads can pop-up while visiting untrustworthy websites, typically those providing adult-only content, gambling, casino or copyright-protected content. These websites tend to serve ads from not-so-trustworthy ad networks that provide high cost-per-click payments for the publisher. You can see an example of such deceptive ad below. These typically push Flash Player or Java installation suggestions.
Remove EKVF ransomware and recover your files
The guide provided below explains how to remove EKVF ransomware virus safely and decrypt or repair (part) of your files. Furthermore, our experts suggest scanning with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files. It should also reset maliciously modified Windows HOSTS back to default.
After completing EKVF virus removal, please take actions to protect your privacy and security instantly. We strongly recommend you to change passwords for your email accounts, social media accounts as well as for accounts in every website that you had saved in your browser (you can check websites with saved passwords via your browser’s settings). Finally, do not forget to report Internet crime incident (you can find directions below).
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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:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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EKVF 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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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, which also includes data recovery software. 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.
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Decrypt EKVF files
Fix and open large EKVF 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 EKVF 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. EKVF ransomware virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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 EKVF 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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