ENFP ransomware locks files on your computer for a ransom
Contents
ENFP ransomware is a confirmed version of STOP/DJVU file-encrypting computer virus. Once executed on victim’s computer, it displays a fake Windows update screen (winupdate.exe process) and encrypts all personal files on the system at the same time. This malware employs RSA algorithm to lock victim’s files, marking them with .enfp extension at the same time. For example, a file called 1.jpg prior the attack will appear as 1.jpg.enfp after the encryption. In addition, to inform the victim about cybercriminals’ ransom demand, the virus drops _readme.txt text file in every infected folder. This note suggests that the attackers demand $490 in Bitcoin for data decryption if the victim contacts them within 72 hours, or $980 later. To get in touch with the ransomware developers, the victim can write to provided emails – helpteam@mail.ch or helpmanager@airmail.cc.
The _readme.txt note created by the virus informs the victim about the cyber attack and what has been done to one’s files. The note begins by a line assuring that the .enfp files can be decrypted if the victim pays a ransom to the cybercriminals. According to them, the files including pictures, databases, documents and archives have been encrypted with “strongest encryption” and that the only way to obtain the unique decryption key is to pay the demanded sum in cryptocurrency. The criminals leave two email addresses for the victim to write to. Later, they explain how to obtain cryptocurrency and provide the wallet address so that the victim could transfer the money.
The ransom note left by ENFP ransomware virus also suggests sending one encrypted file (a small one) to criminals to test the suggested file decryption tool. The criminals promise to reply with an attached decrypted file version. This test is provided in order to encourage the victim to pay the ransom. However, there are number of reasons not to pay up, such as:
- The criminals might not provide you with decryption tools after you pay up. Even worse, they might demand more money later.
- Paying ransom, as well as asking for a ransom, is illegal in certain countries.
- By listening to cybercriminals’ demands, you would support cybercrime industry. The attackers already rake up millions of dollars via ransomware attacks each year.
Beware of password-stealer installed by this ransomware
ENFP ransomware, just like its previous versions TIRP, REIG and others are known to deliver AZORULT Trojan to infected computers (which isn’t mentioned in the ransom note). This malware is capable of gathering all kinds of sensitive information from the infected computer and transferring it to cybercriminals’ Command&Control server. The collected information can include browsing history, login credentials, cryptocurrency wallets (Monero, uCoin), Skype chat history, Steam and Telegram login details, email credentials and more.
In addition, it might execute backdoor commands to collect hosts’ IP and perform other illegal activities such as list files, open/delete them etc. Access to such kinds of information and resources can allow the criminals perform information theft, exploits, download malware to the compromised computer. Needless to say, you must remove ENFP ransomware virus along with Azorult immediately. For that, we recommend scanning with a trustworthy malware removal software. To repair virus damage on the system, we suggest downloading RESTORO.
Scan your system for FREE to detect security, hardware and stability issues. You can use the scan results and try to remove detected issues 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 | ENFP Ransomware Virus |
Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
Family | STOP/DJVU |
Previous versions | KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (find full list here) |
Version | 286th |
Extension | .enfp |
Damage | This ransomware applies RSA encryption to files found on victim’s computer, adds additional extension after the original one. The malware then proceeds by downloading AZORULT information-stealer on the computer. To prevent easy data recovery, the virus eliminates Volume Shadow Copies. To prevent the victim from searching for help online, the ransomware adds a list of restricted domains to Windows HOSTS file. |
Ransom note | _readme.txt |
Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
Distribution | Spreads via torrent downloads, including 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 | Remove the ransomware using anti-malware software, then we recommend scanning with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files. |
Avoid ransomware virus infections: common distribution tactics
ENFP ransomware virus is part of STOP/DJVU ransomware group that is known to spread its variants in a particular way. While other ransomware types spread using multiple techniques, this one almost solely relies on illegal torrent-type downloads. The majority of its victims report downloading an illegal software variant including a malicious crack or keygen. Others report installing a malicious KMSPico version that brought this ransomware to their computer. Typically, computer users consider downloading illegal software versions in order to avoid software license fee that gives access to premium features. However, in most cases attempts to illegally bypass this fee results in severe computer infection.
What makes this technique so successful is that computer users are willing to ignore their security software warnings about the download being potentially malicious; most of the time, they believe the file was deemed malicious because it contains a software cracking tool. However, we’d like to advise you that software cracks typically contain a variety of malware, not only ransomware but Trojans, cryptocurrency miners and similar threats that you should stay away from.
Speaking of other ways to spread malware one of the main methods used is malicious email spam. This technique involves creating convincing email subject, message and attaching a legitimate-looking file to it. The attackers frequently inject malicious scripts to documents such as Word or Excel file, or PDFs or use JS or ACE format files and attach them to the email. After opening such file, the victim’s computer can get infected immediately or after enabling editing.
We’d like to remind you that cybercriminals often try to pose as legitimate companies (including eBay, Amazon, DPD, DHL, UPS, etc) when addressing the victim. In most cases, they pretend to be sending parcel delivery links, invoices, missing/pending payment data, and similar. However, the sole aim of such emails is to trick the victim into opening the malicious file. Social engineering plays an important role in such attacks, as these emails are made to convince the victim into opening the disguised malware rather than using sophisticated and time-consuming techniques to actually hack into users or companies’ computers.
Another malware distribution technique widely used nowadays relies on fake online ads that seem like legitimate suggestions to install well-known software updates. Crooks mostly tend to suggest fake Adobe Flash or Java updates. The installer that can be downloaded via such fake ads can contaminate victim’s computer with various spyware and malware at the same time.
Remove ENFP ransomware and rescue your files
Use the instructions provided below to remove ENFP ransomware virus easily and restore encrypted files (or at least repair part of them). Additionally, our team recommends scanning with RESTORO to identify damage to Windows OS files and repair them. This helps to ensure error-free computer functionality.
If you’re done with ENFP virus removal already, we suggest changing all of your passwords (especially for accounts saved in your browsers) and report Internet crime incident for institution responsible for handling such incidents in your country. Please check the reference list below.
OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND
Our team recommends removing malware using a professional antivirus software.
REMOVE THREATS WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs.
Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.
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.
ENFP 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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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.
Special Offer
Compatibility: Microsoft Windows
See Full Review
RESTORO is a unique PC Repair Tool which comes with an in-built Avira scan engine to detect and remove spyware/malware threats and uses a patented technology to repair virus damage. The software can repair damaged, missing or malfunctioning Windows OS files, corrupted DLLs, and more. The free version offers a scan that detects issues. To fix them, license key for the full software version must be purchased.
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 ENFP files
Fix and open large ENFP 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 ENFP 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. ENFP ransomware virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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 ENFP 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.
Leave a Reply