Remove POWD Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .powd FILES)

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

POWD Ransomware Virus: The Need to Protect Your Computer

Contents

POWD Ransomware Virus: The Need to Protect Your Computer
- Reasons not to pay the ransom
- Ransomware Summary
Ransomware distribution methods used by cybercriminals
Why you should remove POWD ransomware virus immediately
Decrypt POWD files
Frequently Asked Questions

POWD ransomware virus was created by the notorious group known as STOP/DJVU ransomware family and it has once again underscored the need to protect computers. The first thing this virus does once it finds its way into a computer is to destroy files by making them unreadable to the owner. The technology used is known as encryption and could affect diverse data types, including documents, pictures, videos, etc. The malware follows it up in quick succession by appending .powd extension to all the affected files as a way of identifying them. In essence, files that hitherto existed as 1.png or 2.jpeg automatically transform to 1.png.powd and 2.jpeg.powd, and same thing will occur to all other files that were encrypted.

To let the victim know what has occurred and also to establish control, those behind the ransomware virus attack will equally forward ransom notes called _readme.txt to every folder. These notifications are more or less short messages explaining the situation to the victim while informing them certain amount of money must be paid as ransom to enable them to receive decryption tools. To give room for further discussions, two email addresses are also forwarded i.e., support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.

Reasons not to pay the ransom

Regardless of the pressure, victims are advised never to comply with cybercriminals’ demands. Better still, they should not have any discussion with them because it won’t benefit them in the long run. Cybercriminals are only desperate to extort money from their victims; once they achieve that, they would disappear like they never existed. There are several other reasons why it is necessary for victims to completely shun those behind the attack. We will elaborate more on that later.

In their haste to make the victim pay, they will first state that the ransom fee is $980 but will add a caveat that if the victim is capable of paying within short notice (typically 3 days or 72 hours after being notified) they can accept only half of that i.e. $490. However, once that time elapses, they insist that only the maximum fee can be accepted.

There are other issues the victim could face even if they have the money and are willing to pay. Typically, cybercriminals do not accept direct money transfers or bank payments, considering they could be traced. So, they often insist that payment must be made with cryptocurrency and would make their wallet address available to the victim so they could transfer the equivalent as quoted in hard currency.
The general advice as supported by the FBI, is that ransom should never be paid to cybercriminals. The reasons that were given include:

It is unlawful to pay a ransom.
It profits criminals.
It puts the victim at further risk of extortion going forward.
It helps cybercriminals to expand their activities and victimize others.

If you have been attacked by this virus, our team recommends you to remove POWD ransomware according to instructions provided below this article. Make sure you use a trustworthy antivirus – for example, our team trusts INTEGO Antivirus, which has great reviews and also comes with a massive discount at the moment.

Ransomware Summary

Name	POWD Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	POWD, TOHJ, TUIS, TURY, POHJ, POWZ (find full list here)
Version	590th
Extension	.powd
Cybercriminal emails	support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@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 .powd 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.MK!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
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This ransomware virus currently being distributed by cybercriminals is similar to earlier versions of the malware but is believed to be more contagious and has a faster encryption rate, thereby making it dangerous and potentially more destructive in nature. In actual sense, they seem to be getting more sophisticated with each new ransomware virus created by them.

The cybercriminals aim to distribute the ransomware virus to as many computers as possible so they could demand for ransom from victims that seek their help. The first line of action is for computer users to safeguard their PCs at all times by taking proactive measures that will be explained in the succeeding paragraphs. However, if a computer, unfortunately, becomes infected, it is crucial for the computer owner to remove it without delay. The earlier it is removed, the better in order to contain damages and also commence recovery efforts where possible.

Ransomware distribution methods used by cybercriminals

There are different deceptive methods used by cybercriminals when distributing ransomware viruses. They disguise their real intentions in order to take their target victims unawares. Here are some of the methods:

The use of emails and attachments

Cybercriminals often impersonate notable brands like Amazon, eBay, DHL, or Yahoo or even claim to be family and friends, all in an attempt to deceive their potential victims. They may also use names like Order Summary, Invoice or Tracking Number to label the accompanying attachments just to incite the receiver to open them. Other times, they might decide to spoof or clone the sender’s email address just to fool the person and make them believe it was authentic. Based on this, anything that is out of place should be considered a red flag and treated with caution or avoided completely.

Popular files such as XLS, PDF, and DOCX are great for storing data. These files were created for noble objectives, but unfortunately, cybercriminals are now exploiting them due to the macro/script properties available in them. Those properties make the process of embedding, transporting, and releasing ransomware viruses easy and convenient for cybercriminals. Due to this risk, when any of such files are received, there should be checks to ascertain if they’re genuine or not before trying to open them.

Peer2Peer sharing of software

The use of the peer-to-peer sharing method in sourcing software may appear as a cheap alternative to obtaining them officially, but it’s quite risky and not worth it. Some software users have unleashed ransomware viruses on their computers in trying to use this not-so legal method of getting software. Also, using P2P sharing software can be considered stealing since copyright-protected software brands are illegally obtained without paying or authorization of its owners.

Online illegal downloads (Direct downloads)

This method is similar to P2P sharing in that software contents are illegally cloned and distributed to end users without the authorization of its owners. However, unknown to the users, the cybercriminals have already embedded ransomware in such online downloads. They usually exploit names of software in high demand and use them as bait to spread the ransomware virus. Most of the time, they publish direct download links on rogue websites claiming to provide 100% cracked software versions. Therefore, to avoid becoming a victim, computer users should only download needed software via the official channels.

By conducting research over the years on how computers became infected with ransomware viruses, we were able to decipher that some popular software contents are often targeted. This is apparently due to their high demand by users. They include the following:

Corel Draw;
Adobe Premiere Pro;
Adobe Photoshop;
Microsoft Office;
PES 20;
VMware Workstation;
Cubase;
League of Legends;
HP Printer Drivers;
Internet Download Manager;
Adobe Illustrator;
Tenorshare 4ukey.

NOTE. Distribution of ransomware viruses may be the top priority, but cybercriminals equally use the opportunity to spread Remote Access Trojans. STOP/DJVU variants are often spread with VIDAR and AZORULT. These RATs are then used to steal sensitive personal information like software login information, banking details, browsing history, cryptocurrency wallets etc.

Why you should remove POWD ransomware virus immediately

It is important to remove POWD ransomware virus once it are found in any computer. This should be done with the use of strong antivirus in order to prevent its spread and protect other files that are yet to be encrypted. Also, any site that advertises decryption tools should be shunned because they’re mostly fraudulent.

Other important activities you should do are:

Changing all passwords previously used in the compromised computer.
Using any available backup device to restore lost data.
Informing relevant government agencies about the situation.

Most of all ensure there is reliable antivirus software installed in your computer at all times.

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POWD 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 POWD 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 POWD 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

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Decrypt POWD files

Fix and open large POWD 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 POWD 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. POWD Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like POWD, TOHJ, TUIS, TURY, POHJ, POWZ (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 POWD 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 POWD 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 POWD 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 POWD 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 POWD 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 .POWD files?

You can only open POWD 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 POWD 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 POWD 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.