Remove GGEW Ransomware Virus (DERYPT .ggew FILES)

remove GGEW ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .ggew extension (free guide)

GGEW ransomware aims to lock your files

Contents

GGEW ransomware aims to lock your files
How to prevent ransomware attacks
Remove GGEW Ransomware Virus and Recover Your Files
Decrypt GGEW files
Frequently Asked Questions

GGEW is a ransomware virus is a malicious computer threat that attempts to encrypt all files on unprotected Windows-running systems. It is a recognized variant of the STOP/DJVU ransomware family, one of the most sophisticated cyber threats today. After breaking its way into the target system, this virus encrypts all files and marks each of them with an additional .ggew extension. To illustrate, files previously named 1.jpg or 2.docx will appear as 1.jpg.ggew and 2.docx.ggew after the encryption procedure. To provide the confused computer user with some information of what has happened, the ransomware drops _readme.txt ransom notes throughout the computer system. These notes explain that the only way to recover lost files is to purchase GGEW file decryption tool from the cybercriminals.

This ransomware variant mainly spreads via illegal downloads including “cracked” software versions. Victims mostly download it from rogue online sites that lure computer users with fake claims to provide premium software versions for free.

The ransom note explains cybercriminals’ intentions

GGEW virus leaves an explanation note for computer users who have fallen victim to a ransomware attack. The note contains a message that explains that all important files on the computer were encrypted with the “strongest algorithm and unique key.” While encryption as a technology is legitimate and widely used to secure data transfers, cybercriminals put it to a bad use by locking the data and making it inaccessible.

The crooks offer a solution – the victim can purchase the decryption key and a tool to decrypt files (make them accessible again) for a specified amount of money which depends on how quickly the user contacts the attackers. The note explains that the decryption price will be set to $490 if the user contacts the attackers within 72 hours (3 full days), otherwise the user has to pay the full amount, which is $980.

To convince the victim to pay the ransom sooner, the note also contains an encouragement to send the criminals one encrypted file for test decryption. The note, however, warns not to send files containing valuable data or the service will be denied.

The only way to contact the criminals is via email as there are two addresses provided in the note – support@bestyourmail.ch, supportsys@airmail.cc. Later, they specify that the only acceptable payment method is via cryptocurrency (Bitcoin), which ensures certain kind of anonymity for the attackers.

One way or another, victims should not pay the ransom. Cybersecurity experts warn that paying up doesn’t solve the problem and might cause further damages. First of all, even after paying the ransom, the cybercriminals might still refuse to provide functional decryption tools. On top of that, they might attempt to further blackmail the computer user and demand more money. Finally, giving money to cybercriminals only encourages them to continue their illegal activities. For more information, we recommend reading FBI recommendations for ransomware victims here.

Specifics of STOP/DJVU ransomware variants

STOP/DJVU ransomware variants, including the described GGEW version, have a tendency to bypass computers located in specific countries. According to research, the virus is programmed to check the computer’s geolocation upon arrival on the target system. For this matter, it fetches a response from https[:]//api.2ip.ua/geo.json and saves it into the geo.json file. This file may contain details such as computer’s IP address, country, city, zip code, longitude and latitude and more. The ransomware then checks if the computer is located in one of the following countries: Russia, Ukraine, Syria, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Armenia, Tajikistan, Kazachstan, or Uzbekistan and if finds that it is, the ransomware stops itself from encrypting files on the system. Otherwise, it proceeds with the attack.

Next worrisome detail about these ransomware variants is that they tend to arrive with additional threats, namely VIDAR or AZORULT Trojans. In cybercrime world, these are well-known information stealers that are capable of grabbing various data from the compromised computer and sending it to the criminals. Some examples of information that can get stolen are browser-saved passwords, browsing history, cryptocurrency wallets, cookies and more.

In addition, this ransomware strain used to modify Windows HOSTS file by adding a set of domains related to cybersecurity and general computer help. As a consequence, the computer user would no longer succeed to access various Internet websites and might receive error code DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN from the web browser.

All in all, we strongly recommend deleting all traces of malware from your computer as soon as you notice its presence on the system. To remove GGEW ransomware virus, rely on a genuine antivirus version only. Before running the AV solution, we advise booting your computer in Safe Mode with Networking for best results. In addition, using tools like RESTORO (secure download link) can help you to repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

Name	GGEW Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	JJWW, HHEW, HHWQ, HHEO, GGEW (find full list here)
Version	523rd
Extension	.ggew
Cybercriminal emails	support@bestyourmail.ch and supportsys@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult or Vidar Trojan
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .ggew 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
Distribution	Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico.
Known software cracks to contain this malware	Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, League of Legends.
Detection names	Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.PAL!MTB (Microsoft), Trojan.Crypt (A) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.47850419 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal
Removal	Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link).

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Files locked by this ransomware will have new extensions appended to their filenames as demonstrated in the screenshot down below.

How to prevent ransomware attacks

Computer users can prevent ransomware attacks by developing safe online browsing habits and also by protecting computers with an up-to-date antivirus solutions. On top of that, we advise every user to familiarize with main ways that ransomware and malware in general spread to avoid getting infected.

GGEW virus and other STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are distributed in disguise – cybercriminals conceal the malicious executable as a setup file that can be hidden in an archive file under any popular software name. The crooks promote these via rogue websites claiming to provide “100% secure free versions” of popular paid software, such as Adobe Photoshop, MatLab, Wondershare Filmora, Virtual DJ Pro and others. Computer users can also find these “traps” in various torrent listings as well.

We encourage computer users to search for popular software downloads in reputable and well-known online resources, such as official software vendors’ sites. On top of that, we’d like to remind each computer user that it better to support legitimate software developers rather than greedy criminals. Trying to bypass software license fee can only cause security-related problems for your computer.

Cybercriminals also like to hide malware in email attachments. The way this works is that cybercriminals modify legitimate-looking document files so that they would contain malicious scripts. They can do this with the majority of popular document formats, such as DOCX, PDF, XLS and more. Then they name these files as somewhat regular, for example, Invoice, Waybill, Parcel Tracking Info, Order Details or similar. Then these files are attached to an email message along a convincing message and sent out to thousands of potential victims.

To avoid getting infected via email, we suggest that you only interact with trustworthy senders and avoid inspecting suspicious emails or those that seem unexpected. Furthermore, emails coming from cybercriminals typically have urgent tone and an invitation to take action (open the attachments or click the inserted URL) immediately. Another common sign of malevolence is unfamiliar greeting line.

Remove GGEW Ransomware Virus and Recover Your Files

If in an unfortunate event of a wrong click online you have fallen victim to a ransomware attack, we recommend that you take the right action now. To remove GGEW ransomware virus, choose a reputable antivirus solution and make sure to run your computer in Safe Mode with Networking first.

Once GGEW ransomware removal is complete, do not forget to report the incident to local authorities and also change all of the passwords you used on the compromised computer. When it comes to data recovery , the best method is to use data backups, but if you do not have any, you can try to restore part of your data manually (track down files from the Downloads folder and also remember recover other files that were downloaded from clouds or email, sent to you by friends, etc.). However, restoring files created on your computer might be much harder. Additionally, you may want to download RESTORO to repair Windows OS files damaged during the virus attack.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

Our team recommends removing malware using a professional antivirus software and then using the following tool to repair virus damage to Windows system files:

REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

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GGEW 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 GGEW 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 GGEW 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.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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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 GGEW files

Fix and open large GGEW 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 GGEW 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. GGEW Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like JJWW, HHEW, HHWQ, HHEO, GGEW (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 GGEW 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 GGEW 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 GGEW 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 GGEW 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 GGEW 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

✓ How can I open .GGEW files?

You can only open GGEW 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 GGEW 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 GGEW 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

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.