Remove ROTE Ransomware Virus (2021 Guide)

ROTE ransomware infects computers to corrupt files on them

ROTE ransomware virus is one of STOP/DJVU malware versions. This virus is set to encrypt all files on victim’s computer with RSA crypto-system and mark them with .rote file extensions. After data encryption, the malicious program creates _readme.txt files which contain information from the ransomware developers. These demand paying a hefty ransom in Bitcoin and contacting the criminals via datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or datahelp@iran.ir.

ROTE file virus compromises files either using online or offline key. It depends on its success to establish connection with the criminals’ server. In case the virus manages to reach the server, it gets online keys for encryption from there. Otherwise, the malware uses an offline key to lock the data.

Victims subject to the offline key attack can expect to decrypt their .rote files using STOP decrypter from Emsisoft in the future. Currently, the tool does not support this extension because it takes time to extract the offline key.

The reason why the malware successfully encrypts files is because it is powerful enough to bypass security software. What is more, it deletes Volume Shadow Copies to prevent any ways to restore data for the victim. Unfortunately, data corruption isn’t the only bad thing that this virus does. On top of that, it installs a malicious Trojan, called Azorult, which can steal your saved passwords and transmit them to the cybercriminals.

The primary aim of ROTE ransomware is to take your files hostage until you pay the ransom. The ransom note specifies that the ransom price is $490 if paid within 72 hours starting from the infection timestamp. Otherwise, it increases to $980.

There is no Bitcoin wallet address provided in the ransom note, and the criminals suggest contacting them via datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or a previously unused email address datahelp@iran.ir. They also suggest decrypting one small file for free to prove that they actually are capable of restoring your data.

Threat Summary

Name	ROTE file virus
Type	Ransomware (STOP/DJVU virus variant)
Version	v0187
File marker	.rote extension
Encryption method	RSA
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490-$980
Contact emails	datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or datahelp@iran.ir
Distribution	Software cracks, keygens, and other malicious downloads
Installs	Azorult Trojan
Decryption	Impossible at the moment
Removal	Remove using trustworthy antivirus software

If you have been affected by this malicious virus, we kindly suggest you to remove ROTE file virus as quickly as possible. Please read the instructions given below this article attentively and use them to clean your computer in Safe Mode.

Downloading illegal files lands malicious payload on victim’s computers

ROTE ransomware sneaks into victim’s computers in a form of a malicious download. Security researchers tirelessly warn computer users about the dangers behind illegal downloads, however, these warnings often go overlooked. As a consequence, STOP ransomware versions such as ZOBM, KODG, COOT, TOEC and others spread rapidly worldwide.

Files known to be distributing this malicious virus are software cracks, keygens and other tools used to activate software licenses for free.

However, ransomware families such as Phobos can also reach your computer via hacked RDP ports, malicious email spam, compromised websites and other malware distribution channels. If you want to prevent such attacks, we strongly encourage you to read this ransomware prevention guide.

Best ways to remove ROTE file virus quickly

There are a few ways to remove ROTE ransomware virus immediately. The first method includes usage of a trustworthy and up-to-date antivirus software of your choice. The instructions on how to run your antivirus without any interventions are presented below.

The second method might interest victims who do not care about their data and can wipe it without regrets. You can also format your hard drive and reinstall Windows. This method bypasses usage of antivirus software.

One way or another, ROTE ransomware removal must be done. Finally, you might want to start restoring your files from backups. Please note that you can plug external storage devices ONLY after a successful malware removal.

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:

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Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

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System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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