Remove HHMM Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .hhmm FILES)
HHMM ransomware aims to extort computer users after locking data
Contents
HHMM file-encrypting virus is a malicious computer threat classified as a ransomware. It has been released by the infamous cybercriminal gang responsible for all STOP/DJVU ransomware attacks. After gaining access into the target system, it renders all files inaccessible by encrypting them. During the attack, the ransomware appends .hhmm extension to every file, making it obvious that each file has been affected. In addition, the malware drops _readme.txt files, widely known as ransom notes.
Once encrypted, data becomes inaccessible to the computer user. The aim of this computer virus is to restrict access to victim’s personal memories, such as photos, videos and audio files, as well as work or study related data, for example, documents, archives, and databases. Now that such important files have become inaccessible, the ransomware attempts to extort the computer user by forcing one to pay a ransom for HHMM file decryption tool, as the explanation in the ransom note suggests.
Overview of the ransom note
The _readme.txt file, which serves the purpose of delivering the cybercriminals’ message to the victim, suggests that there is no other way to restore files than paying a ransom to ransomware operators. The note suggests purchasing the decryption tool from them, but in order to do so, the note instructs the victim to write an email to provided email addresses: support@freshmail.top or datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.
The note then proceeds to explain the pricing of the decryption tool and private key required to unlock encrypted data. The initial price is $980, however, the criminals offer a 50% discount for victims who rush to contact the criminals within 72 hours (3 days). In such case, they would reduce the price to $490. One way or another, they won’t accept regular payment methods and demand paying the amount in cryptocurrency (such as Bitcoin). Later on, via email communication, they will explain how to purchase Bitcoin equivalent to the amount in dollars and how to transfer it to their virtual wallet.
The note also suggests sending one encrypted file to the criminals via email for test decryption. They also ask to include Personal ID string that is provided at the very end of the _readme.txt note, but can also be found in C:\SystemID\PersonalID.txt file dropped during the attack.
At this point, we would like to remind ransomware victims that paying a ransom is not a recommended choice. First of all, it never guarantees data recovery. Second, it encourages cybercrime. Finally, victims who pay up put themselves at risk of being targeted again, since cybercriminals often see such people as easy targets. For example, they might start demanding more money after receiving the money so quickly. For more recommendations for ransomware victims, we strongly recommend reading guidelines issued by FBI or NCSC.
Additional malware dropped
HHMM ransomware virus samples analyzed during our research revealed that additional malware is being distributed alongside it. This is typical for most versions of STOP/DJVU; these file-encrypting threats are mostly accompanied by Vidar, AZORult, and RedLine, all recognizable as dangerous information-stealers that can be controlled by cybercriminals remotely. They are capable of extracting sensitive information from computer such as passwords, banking information, offline cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history, cookies, installed software and active processes list, computer information, and more. In addition, these stealers can be used to download additional malware on the computer.
Therefore, to prevent further damage to your computer and loss of sensitive information, we recommend you to remove HHMM ransomware virus along these information stealers as soon as possible. Our team usually trusts INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal, although you can choose other AV brands you like. In addition, tools like RESTORO (secure download link) can be used to repair virus-damaged Windows system files.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | HHMM Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | HHOO, HHMM, QOTR, QOWD, IOWD, QOQA, VVOO (find full list here) |
| Version | 646th |
| Extension | .hhmm |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| Additional malware dropped | Azorult, RedLine or Vidar |
| Damage | The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .hhmm 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, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends. |
| Detection names | Trojan: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 |
| Removal | Remove 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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Ransomware distribution in a nutshell
Ransomware-type computer viruses are distributed in typical malware distribution methods, but the main ones used involve rogue online downloads (such as cracked software), phishing emails containing attachments, or malicious websites.
STOP/DJVU variants such as HHMM virus are most detected in websites providing illegal downloads, such as cracked software versions. Such websites typically provide downloads either via external download links or torrents. In order to avoid detection, these malicious setup files are secured in password-protected archives, therefore the user is asked to enter a password before accessing it. Unfortunately, if the computer user does, the whole set of malware gets launched on the computer system.
In general, it is advisable to avoid untrustworthy websites and pirated or cracked software versions. It is a well-known fact that most of these files are simply malware in disguise. If you’re in need for a specific software, please head to its official website or a confirmed and reputable website that will get you a discount on the license key or subscription. Trying to obtain paid software for free can put your computer at severe risk of malware infection, not to mention the fact that by doing so you’re infringing copyrights of its creators.
Another popular way of infecting computers is sending phishing emails to thousands of potential targets. These phishing emails typically contain attachments or links. Interacting with those will lead to computer infection. Cybercriminals usually name the malicious attachments as invoices, order receipts, or waybills.
One of the signs that the email sender has malevolent intentions is the urgent message tone, inviting to view attached file or link. Moreover, no matter who the sender claims to be, watch out for overly generic greeting line and grammar mistakes in the message, as these can tell you the sender isn’t trustworthy.
In general, computer users should be cautious when browsing the Internet and avoid visiting websites that show excessive amount of aggressive pop-up ads. Untrustworthy websites often trigger shady ads after clicking something on the website or trying to navigate through it. In other cases, rogue sites might ask you to install “recommended software” before allowing to access the website you initially came for, for example, movie or a download. Do not agree to install anything from suspicious online resources to be on the safe side.
Remove HHMM ransomware virus and decrypt your files
Instructions provided below will guide you through HHMM ransomware removal procedure. Do not forget to follow the outlined steps attentively. In addition, do not try to use your data backup (if you had one) before removing the malware.
To remove HHMM ransomware virus, use a trustworthy antivirus solution. Afterward, do not forget to change all of your passwords used on the compromised computer.
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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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HHMM 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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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
- 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 HHMM files
Fix and open large HHMM 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 HHMM 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. HHMM Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like HHOO, HHMM, QOTR, QOWD, IOWD, QOQA, VVOO (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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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 HHMM 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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