Geek's Advice

REDL ransomware attacks increase

REDL ransomware is a malicious computer virus from STOP/DJVU malware group that restricts access to personal files stored on victim’s computer. It does so by encrypting files with complex cryptography algorithm, and then marks files by adding .redl extension to filenames. The malicious virus drops _readme.txt ransom notes in each folder containing some data. These notes demand paying a hefty $490-$980 ransom in Bitcoin cryptocurrency for a data decryption software. The attackers suggest contacting them via helpmanager@firemail.cc or helpmanager@iran.ir first. This version was released at the same time as .piny extension virus.

REDL ransomware modifies files using flawless encryption, and there is no ways to trace back what it did to develop a decryption software. The only hope to restore files is for victims subject to offline key encryption – more on that later. The creators of this malicious virus are extremely experienced and know what they’re doing.

The ransom note, namely _readme.txt, informs that “All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.” This is true in case the ransomware used online encryption. Once in encrypts the files, it transfers the private key (required for decryption) to criminals’ C&C server, and it is impossible to reach it from there.

The note says that the victim can test the attacker’s decryption tool by sending one encrypted .redl file to them. The victim must send a file that doesn’t contain valuable information to helpmanager@firemail.cc or helpmanager@iran.ir. The attackers then send back a decrypted version of the file.

Please remember that obeying criminals’ demands won’t lead anywhere good. Besides, even if you pay the ransom, you’ll need to remove REDL ransomware virus along with Azorult Trojan and other malware that was possibly installed on your computer.

Threat Summary

Can you decrypt .redl extension files?

REDL decryption is possible only if an offline key was used to encrypt them. The easiest way to figure it out is to look at your personal ID in C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt. If any of the keys end in t1, your files were modified in offline way. Please note that the key specified in _readme.txt file doesn’t always reflect the situation as more than one key can be used.

Victims whose files were locked by the offline key should check for updates in STOP Decryptor guide.

If your files were encrypted with online key (any other ending but not t1), THERE ARE NO decryption tools. The key is generated for each victim separately, and for all victims the fate is the same – free data recovery is impossible. Unfortunately, you can only recover your files from backups.

DJVU ransomware awaits in software cracks

DJVU (also known as STOP) ransomware versions (including RIGH, PINY, MKOS, NBES and others) is distributed in malicious downloads – software cracks mainly. In other words, it means that ransomware developers tend to pack such files with their malware and upload to dangerous and illegal file sharing websites. Unfortunately, these illegal downloads are quite popular and therefore serve an easy bait for the victims.

If you want to keep your computer safe and REDL file virus free, avoid downloading illegal software activation tools. Consider investing in legitimate licenses as these cost way cheapier than criminals’ ransom demands.

Easy REDL ransomware removal steps

You can remove REDL ransomware virus easily using an up-to-date antivirus solution of your choice. However, you should start your computer in Safe Mode first, as explained below. Please follow the provided instructions attentively. You do not have to be experienced computer user to clean your computer after ransomware attack, just make sure you complete the steps and use a trustworthy security software for this task. You may want to check some software reviews here.

Complete REDL ransomware removal as explained, then do the following: a) Change ALL of your passwords. Primarily focus on login credentials that were saved in your browser; b) Next, search for data backups and use them to restore data at least partially; c) Furthermore, inform your friends and relatives about ransomware protection.

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

REMOVE & PROTECT WITH INTEGO

Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7.. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs.

Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.

Read full review here.

STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

DOWNLOAD RESTORO

RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically.

RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

Read full review here.

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.

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.

Matt Corey

Matt Corey is passionate about the latest tech news, gadgets and everything IT. Matt loves to criticize Windows and help people solve problems related to this operating system. When he’s not tinkering around with new gadgets he orders, he enjoys skydiving, as it is his favorite way to clear his mind and relax.