Remove NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION Ransomware (Virus Removal Guide 2021)
NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION ransomware aims to lock your files until you pay a ransom
Contents
Nemty Special Edition is a name of a ransomware-type virus which originates from NEMTY malware family. The virus aims to encrypt all files on the disk so that the victim no longer could access them. To mark the encrypted files, the ransomware uses .NEMTY_[random_string] extension. To inform the victim about the cyber attack and possible consequences, the virus creates NEMTY_[random_string]-DECRYPT.txt files and saves them in each affected folder. In addition to corrupting victim’s personal work and memories, teh virus also installs Vidar Trojan on the system.
The ransom note, namely NEMTY_[random_string]-DECRYPT.txt, starts with a line “We are sorry to inform… but your files were encrypted.” The message continues, “Don’t try to find free solution… You will waste your time!” According to the note, the attackers use a combination of cryptography methods – AES-128-CTR and RSA-2048. The message then provides two contact emails – main and reserve, which are spaxl425@protonmail.com and spaxl425@aol.com.
After contacting the victims, most likely you will receive a suggestion to test the decryption by sending one encrypted file to the NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION virus developers, and receiving a decrypted version of it as a reply. Then, you will be guided to pay a ransom in a certain cryptocurrency (such as Bitcoin) by transferring the money to the attackers crypto-wallet. However, bear in mind that even paying the ransom does not guarantee complete file recovery.
Cyber criminals might just take your money and go, without even sending you the decryption software. Therefore, it is better to use data backups to recover files, or rely on tools that can provide limited repair after virus damage, such as RESTORO (it can repair damaged Windows OS files). However, before even starting to think about data recovery, you should remove NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION ransomware virus immediately.
Threat Summary
| Name | Nemty Special Edition ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, File-encrypting virus |
| Symptoms | The virus encrypts all personal files, which now appear as blank icons and have new file extensions added after the original ones. The victim cannot open personal files using any program. Ransom notes left on the system demand paying a ransom for data recovery. |
| Damage | Loss of all personal and work files on the compromised computer or computer network. |
| File Marker Extension | .NEMTY_[random_string] |
| Ransom Note | NEMTY_[random_string]-DECRYPT.txt |
| Contact Emails Left | spaxl425@protonmail.com, spaxl425@aol.com |
| Distribution | Malicious email spam campaigns, copyright-infringing downloads, deceptive and malicious online ads. |
| Decryption | No decryption tools available. To restore compromised Windows operating system files, scan with RESTORO |
| Removal | You can try RESTORO in-built Avira Anti-Virus scanner to remove the malware. Boot in Safe Mode with Networking first (see instructions below). |
Ransomware distribution vectors explained
NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION virus has been noticed to attack Korean users primarily. For this matter, the cyber criminals have been using large-scale email spam campaigns with attached PDF, Word, or other format files. It has been noticed that the attackers tend to use file formats capable of executing JavaScript or Macros mainly. Such functions come in handy when trying to contact and fetch the malicious payload from an external source, such as infectious website.
That said, we recommend you to avoid opening email attachments if they come from suspicious or unknown sources. Double-check the sender’s identity and make sure the email address contains no suspicious-looking typo or grammar mistakes. Moreover, always save files and scan them with anti-virus before opening them.
In addition, you can download the ransomware along illegal online downloads, such as KMSPico (used to crack Microsoft Windows), software or game cracks, keygens, and other illegal paid license activation tools. You might also come along a malicious ransomware payload if you accidentally or intentionally agree to install a software update from an annoying online pop-up ad.
Ways to avoid file-encrypting intruders
In order to avoid being infected with viruses similar to NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION ransomware, you should start practicing secure online browsing habits. First of all, never open email attachments originating from untrustworthy and even slightly possibly untrustworthy sources. In other words, if you have even a smallest suspicion that the sender isn’t someone who it claims to be, do not open the attachment.
Next, we recommend keeping all software up-to-date at all times. Outdated software contains various vulnerabilities that can be easily exploited in a few simple steps using hacking tools. Hackers might use these software vulnerabilities to gain administrator’s or root user’s capabilities and inject ransomware or other virus type into your computer system.
Finally, avoid untrustworthy downloads, such as game cracks or software keygens. Remember – it is always better to invest in a legitimiate software version, which will never damage your system by carrying a malicious virus alongside it.
Remove NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION virus yourself
If you’re ready to start NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION virus removal, continue reading carefully. First, we recommend you to boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking, which disables all unwanted processes (such as malicious ones) that can interfere with security program’s activity. Then, run a full system scan to remove malware and identify damaged Windows system files. For this matter, you might consider trying RESTORO software.
As soon as you remove NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION ransomware and other viruses it dragged into your computer, start changing all of your passwords for accounts saved in your browsers immediately.
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:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO 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.
NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION RANSOMWARE Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove the 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, see a video tutorial on how to do it:
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 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 NEMTY SPECIAL EDITION RANSOMWARE 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 malware removal program. In addition, we suggest trying a combination of INTEGO antivirus (removes malware and protects your PC in real-time) and RESTORO (repairs virus damage to Windows OS files).
REMOVE MALWARE & REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE
1 Step. Get robust antivirus to remove existing threats and enable real-time protection
INTEGO Antivirus for Windows provides robust real-time protection, Web Shield against phishing and deceptive websites, blocks malicious downloads and blocks Zero-Day threats. Use it to remove ransomware and other viruses from your computer professionally.
2 Step. Repair Virus Damage on Windows Operating System Files
Download RESTORO to scan your system for FREE and 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.
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 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.
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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