Geek's Advice

RIGH ransomware attacks to encrypt data on victim’s PC

RIGH ransomware is the 190th version of DJVU malware that employs asymmetric encryption to lock all victim’s files on the computer. The virus targets Windows computers and aims to prevent data access to force the victim pay a ransom. Each affected file gets marked with .righ file extension, and the virus also drops _readme.txt ransom note in every affected data folder. The ransom note commands the victim to contact criminals via datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or datahelp@iran.ir and pay a ransom of $490-$980 in Bitcoin.

The ransomware typically hides in malicious online downloads. Once opened, the malicious file runs the RIGH ransomware executive which then disables security programs, firewalls, and deletes Volume Shadow Copies. The virus begins the encryption process by scanning all file system. It has a target list of file extensions to corrupt, and bypasses folders that hold system files. Its primary goal is to restrict access to personal files (years of work, precious memories such as photos, videos, and similar).

RIGH ransomware deletes any system restore points to prevent victims from restoring their files easily. Therefore, only people who have backups will succeed in recovering files quickly.

The ransomware developers are the only ones who have private keys required for data decryption. Therefore, they suggest contacting them via provided emails and pay a ransom of $490 if paid within 72 hours from the infection. Otherwise, the price goes up to $980.

This STOP/DJVU ransomware variant is extremely dangerous as it also infects the host computer with Azorult Trojan. This Trojan is capable of stealing private information like login credentials and even more.

As you may have guessed, the first thing you need to do is wipe your computer from malware. Therefore, we suggest you to remove RIGH ransomware virus using free instructions provided at the end of this article.

Identify if your files were encrypted by offline or online key

RIGH file virus encrypts files using online or offline keys depending on its success to establish connection with its Command & Control server. In case the attempts to connect are unsuccessful, the virus encrypts files using offline key, which is the same for all victims of one extension ransomware attack.

To clarify, RIGH malware has only one offline key. This is why it is easier for security experts to extract it and use it to help victims of offline key encryption. However, if you were affected by the online key (each victim gets a different key), it is nearly impossible to recover your files.

Victims might decrypt .righ extension files in the future using STOP decrypter.

Please keep in mind that this is only possible if an offline key was used for your data encryption.

Threat summary

Name	RIGH ransomware virus
Type	Ransomware; File-encrypting virus (STOP/DJVU variant)
Encryption	RSA
Symptoms	Can’t open files with .righ file extension
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490 or $980
Contact emails	datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or datahelp@iran.ir
Distribution	Malicious downloads, including software cracks, keygens, illegal activation tools
Decryption	Not possible. Decryption will be possible for offline key victims (see more info below)
Additional details	Installs AZORULT Trojan
Removal	Remove using antivirus with a help of a guide provided below

The virus reaches victims via illegal downloads

RIGH ransomware virus victims typically install the malware by opening malicious downloads such as software cracks. Please keep in mind that such files are very dangerous and are used for illegal activation of paid software.

Malware creators love packing such downloads with various viruses, so you should keep distance from them at all times. The same distribution method has been used to spread MSOP, HETS, ZOBM and ROTE variants.

Ransomware is also frequently transmitted via phishing emails and infected websites. As a matter of fact, ransomware distribution continuously evolves and new ways to spread it emerge every now and then. Therefore, we present these ransomware prevention methods for you.

The best way to remove RIGH ransomware

You can remove RIGH ransomware virus for free using the instructions provided below this post. We also advise using antivirus software of your choice to escort the malware from the computer safely.

Only after a successful RIGH ransomware removal you can do further steps to secure yourself and try to recover some files. First of all, we suggest changing all of your login data as the Azorult Trojan could have stolen it already. Next, we recommend you to learn more about DJVU decryption by reading this article.

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:

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

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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.

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