PAAS ransomware appears to be the 300th variant of STOP/DJVU virus
Contents
PAAS ransomware is a file-encrypting computer virus from STOP/DJVU malware family. The malicious program uses RSA Salsa 20 algorithm to encrypt all files on the victim’s computer and then it marks these files with additional .paas extension. The virus appends it after the original file extension, so for example, a file previously called 1.jpg becomes 1.jpg.pass after the ransomware attack. Once all data is locked, the virus drops _readme.txt ransom notes in every computer folder. These notes contain an identical message from the cybercriminals who demand paying a ransom for file decryption. According to them, the price of the decryption software is $490 in Bitcoin within 3 days, or $980 if paid later. To get more information regarding how to transfer money and recover files, the criminals suggest writing to helpteam@mail.ch or helpmanager@airmail.cc.
The primary aim of this ransomware is to take your files hostage by locking them so that you couldn’t access them anymore. The criminals behind this virus expect you to pay a ransom for data decryption to them. The _readme.txt note informs that all files, including documents, photos, databases and other file formats have been encrypted with the strongest algorithm. The attackers suggest that the only possible way to recover files is to purchase unique decryption key and software from them.
The ransom note suggests that the cybercriminals are willing to offer “test decryption” service for the victim. This allows the victim to test the PAAS file decryption software on one small file. The victim can send it as an attachment to provided emails and ask to receive a decrypted version in return. However, the attackers might refuse to decrypt the file if they believe it contains valuable information as recovering such file might refrain the victim from paying the ransom at all.
However, we as cybersecurity experts do not recommend paying ransom to ransomware operators at all. Same is said by FBI. There are more than a few reasons not to pay up, such as:
- Paying the ransom doesn’t mean that the criminals will actually send the tool for you. Even if they do, it can be faulty and fail to work properly.
- Paying ransoms might be as illegal as asking for them in the country of your residence.
- Do not support cybercriminals as they already collect millions in ransoms yearly. Besides, the success of these criminal activities lure other people to join this illegal business model as well.
- STOP/DJVU variants are known to infect victims’ machines with AZORULT Trojan, malware that steals passwords, cryptocurrency wallets and allows criminals to perform remote actions on your computer. Do you really want to pay money for such sneaky people who might use collected information to extort you even more?
Ransomware damage: what has been done to your computer?
PAAS ransomware begins the attack by overcoming Windows security system and starts scanning all computer folders, searching for files with extensions from the virus’ target list. The virus skips some system folders to keep the Windows operating system functionality. To encrypt files, the ransomware leverages RSA and Salsa20 algorithms, which makes files really hard to open. The virus modifies only the first 150 KB of the file, therefore some visual file formats such as images or videos can be partly repaired with minimal information loss. The guide we provide explains how to repair such files.
The ransomware operators also take actions to prevent the victim from recovering files for free. Therefore, the malicious virus’ algorithm is set to delete Windows Volume Shadow Copies. In addition, it also modifies HOSTS file by adding a list of restricted domains to it. As a result, attempt to visit one of these domains can result in DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error. The meaning of this modification is to prevent the victim access a set of websites that provide various computer-security related information, including virus removal guides.
As mentioned earlier, PAAS ransomware downloads and runs AZORULT Trojan on the compromised host, making it silently run in the background. It is a powerful Remote Access Trojan (RAT) that can be used to view, delete, download files on victim’s computer, plus steal information from it, such as browser-saved passwords, history, Steam, Telegram and Skype login credentials, cryptocurrency wallets and more. The Trojan simply sends collected data to its Command&Control server.
Due to reasons listed above, we strongly recommend to remove PAAS ransomware virus as well as related threats from your computer. For this matter, consider using powerful malware removal software of your choice. Our team recommends downloading RESTORO afterward to cleanse malware remains and repair virus damage to your computer system.
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.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | PAAS Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | NQHD, ZAQI, YBER, VFGJ, FHKF, MAAK, QQQW (find full list here) |
| Version | 300th |
| Extension | .paas |
| Damage | This ransomware applies RSA Salsa20 encryption on target files stored on victim’s computer. As a result, files become inaccessible. Each file gets marked with a new extension (virus’ measure to make affected files distinctive). The ransomware deletes VSS and modifies Windows HOSTS file by adding a list of blocked Internet domains. |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | The ransomware hides in illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, key generators or KMSPico. |
| Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Glupteba (Microsoft), Glupteba.Backdoor.Bruteforce.DDS (Malwarebytes), TR/AD.InstaBot.bfsbw (Avira), HEUR:Exploit.Win32.Shellcode.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.36669904 (B)(Emsisoft), W32.Trojan.Gen (Webroot) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Use trusted malware removal software to eliminate the ransomware and related malware from your PC. Afterward, scan with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files. |
Ransomware distribution tricks explained
The most common distribution method used for STOP/DJVU variants, therefore PAAS ransomware as well, is illegal online downloads. The attackers know that many computer users often head to various torrent websites searching for cracked software or game versions to download. Therefore, they inject such files with malicious ransomware-downloading script. Once the victim attempts to open or use downloaded software, the malicious script downloads the payload and runs it on the computer. To deceive the victim and conceal a sudden system slowdown, the malware displays a fake Windows update screen.
What worsens the whole situation is that Windows Security as well as other anti-virus programs often display warnings about potentially malicious download, especially when it includes a crack. However, sometimes users want to get the free software version so much that they ignore the security software alerts and proceed to open files anyway. However, this is a really bad thing to do, because even if you notice nothing after launching such files, many bad things can happen in the background. The hidden malware might silently open a backdoor to your computer which can be exploited by attackers or you might get infected with a silent information stealer or cryptocurrency miner.
Our advice is to always download software from legitimate or confirmed online sources. This helps to prevent unexpected ransomware and other malware infections. It is the only way to be sure that you’re getting the real product, besides, legitimate software licenses are always cheaper than hefty ransoms that cybercriminals demand paying. Do not risk losing your valuable information!
Another popular technique used by ransomware operators is injecting malicious payload-downloading script into document formats, such as PDF or WORD files. The attackers attach such files named as invoice or payment-information to emails. Typically, they compose email message to seem like it’s coming from a well-known company representative, a colleague or someone you might know, urging to open the attachment and respond as soon as possible. However, opening such attachment can result in an immediate computer infection. What is worse is that the attackers use email spoofing techniques to make the sender’s email appear legitimate, while the actual sender’s email is hidden. For this reason, we recommend you to be super careful and only open emails from people/companies you know and expect to receive an email from.
Finally, STOP/DJVU ransomware victims should be aware of fake decryption tools circulating around the Internet. It is a well-known fact that this malware family is one of the most prevalent at the moment, therefore there are many victims searching for decryption tools online. It has been observed that other ransomware strain operators hide their viruses in fake decryptors, causing double-infection for victims. One of such ransomware families that’s been using such distribution technique is called ZORAB.
Remove PAAS ransomware virus and recover/repair your files
You should use the instructions provided below to remove PAAS ransomware virus safely. The instructions are easy to follow and can be easily understood even by inexperienced computer users. Do not forget to scan with recommended virus damage repair software, RESTORO afterward. If you have any questions regarding virus removal or data repair process, do not hesitate and leave a question below.
Once PAAS virus removal is complete, we suggest performing the following actions to put an end to this unpleasant situation:
- Report a cybercrime incident to an authority responsible for handling such incidents in your country. You can find a helpful list of links below.
- Use data backups to recover at least part of your data after removing the virus.
- Use the instructions we provide to decrypt or repair STOP/DJVU affected files.
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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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PAAS 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 PAAS 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, 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 8/8.1/10/11 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 PAAS 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
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Decrypt PAAS files
Fix and open large PAAS 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 PAAS 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. PAAS ransomware virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like NQHD, ZAQI, YBER, VFGJ, FHKF, MAAK, QQQW (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 PAAS 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 PAAS 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 PAAS 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 PAAS 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 PAAS 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 PAAS 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 PAAS 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 PAAS 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.
Agradeço toda a informação prestada, mas infelizmente o meu problema mantém-se, o meu PC terá sido infetado por um ID on-line 🙁