SIJR ransomware is notorious for encrypting files contained in any computer it infects
Contents
SIJR is a dangerous ransomware-type computer virus that is designed to encrypt all files on compromised computers. It has just emerged from the infamous cybercriminal group known as STOP/DJVU. Like the other variants before it, this one is known for initiating illegal processes to gain control of the computer system and pave the way for the encryption of files found in it. During the cyber-attack, all the files contained in the compromised system will be marked with .sijr extension as shown in the examples below. File 1.jpg would be automatically renamed 1.jpg.sijr while 2.txt would also be renamed 2.txt.sijr and same format would be applicable to all others.
To bring to the knowledge of the victim about what is going on, those behind the cyber-attack will also drop ransom notes called _readme.txt in every folder. The information contained in it will clarify that a ransomware attack has just occurred, and as a result, the entire files saved in the system have become encrypted. In other words, they have been made unreadable/useless to the owner with the use of powerful algorithms that can’t be reversed by anyone else. As a result of that, the victim would have to pay the ransom so they could forward a decryption tool for the SIJR malware.
Contents of the ransom note fully explained
The cybercriminals will caption the _readme.txt ransom note in such a way it will appear threatening to the victim. They will claim that all available data is stored in the computer has been rendered useless by way of encryption, including important documents, pictures, videos, etc. However, they would also be quick in letting the victim know that there is no other way to solve the problem except by complying with their ransom demands. In other words, they are paying them for the software and decryption key that will enable them to regain the lost/encrypted data.
Already, the motive of the cybercriminals is the ransom fee they hope to collect from the victim. To establish a communication channel between them, they will also make available two email addresses, namely, manager@time2mail.ch and supportsys@airmail.cc with suggestions that the victim should respond via them.
To remove doubt in the victim’s mind and encourage them to pay, they may request that any part of the encrypted files be sent to them for a trial test decryption as a way of showing their expertise. However, when it comes to the ransom proper, they will emphasize that the ransom is $980, but if the victim could respond within the next three days after being notified, 50% discount could be leveraged by them, thus bringing the ransom down to $490. However, once 72 hours elapses, the discount would be removed. Since they typically do not accept cash payments/transfers, the cybercriminals would also inform the victim to make use of cryptocurrency such as bitcoin or similar ones in paying the ransom. The obvious reason why they prefer cryptocurrency is to cover their tracks and avoid law enforcement agents coming after them.
Shown in the screenshot below is a typical _readme.txt ransom note cybercriminals often leave for their target victims.
No matter how important the encrypted files may be, those at the receiving end of cyber-attacks have been warned by the FBI and other cybersecurity experts never to pay ransom. When victims pay ransom, they worsen the situation in many ways. More ransom funds in the hands of cybercriminals would only encourage them to perpetrate more crimes in hopes of getting additional money. It would also enable them to employ more hands in the illegal business. Also, past experiences have shown that victims who pay ransom end up being attacked again in the future, unlike those that refuse to pay.
Further risks associated with cyberattack
Generally, different variants of STOP/DJVU ransomware virus including the one under discussion usually release other types of malware/Trojans on any computer they’ve already infected. These secondary malware or Trojans can equally be as dangerous. Typical ones include AZORULT and VIDAR and can be used in stealing important personal information like passwords, banking details, browsing details, cryptocurrency wallets etc. When cybercriminals pilfer such sensitive details, it could lead to more losses or even blackmail.
Cybercriminals also make use of other means such as deleting of Volume Shadow Copies as well as modification of the original system processes to make the computer more vulnerable once it is compromised following a ransomware attack. For this and other reasons, it is crucial to remove SIJR virus as soon as possible whenever it infects a computer. The best way to go about it is to boot the infected computer through Safe Mode with Networking and afterward, you install and scan any genuine antivirus software. The download and use of RESTORO in scanning and repairing affected Windows OS files is highly recommended.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | SIJR Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here) |
| Version | 470th |
| Extension | .sijr |
| Cybercriminal emails | manager@time2mail.ch and supportsys@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 .sijr 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.PAL!MTB (Microsoft), Trojan.Crypt (A) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.47850419 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link). |
REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE
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.
Screenshot of files encrypted by SIJR ransomware is provided below.
Ransomware threats and the need to safeguard your PC
The need to safeguard your computer against ransomware attacks can’t be overemphasized. Cybercriminals now make use of diverse methods in spreading viruses, including phishing, fake ads, pirated software contents and other inordinate social engineering gimmicks. Again, since they keep changing their methods, computer users should remain vigilant at all times.
However, it may interest you to note that STOP/DJVU variants typically make use of pirated software copies uploaded on online torrent platforms in spreading virus. To prevent such occurrence, downloading/activation of any software content should be done only on the official web page of the producer or their third-party licensed agents.
Another method sometimes used by cybercriminals in spreading virus is through deceptive email attachments embedded with malware. They usually make use of PDF, JS formats, Excel, or even MS Word in transporting the malware and may even use compelling terms like invoices, pending payment, or order details, among others, just to make their target victim click on such attachments.
Cybercriminals may even spoof the email sender’s address while attaching logos of notable brands just to give the impression they are coming from such legitimate businesses. To be on the safe side, emails that appear weird in any form shouldn’t be opened. Clicking on them can lead to a malware attack.
For victims, it is important to shun any website advertising dubious claims of having solutions/tools for STOP/DJVU decrypted files. So far, only DiskTuna and Emsisoft have proven effective against these virus variants.
Before we conclude, it is necessary to reiterate that genuine antivirus software should be kept active in your computer at all times. It will act as a form of insurance against any form of malware, even when you unknowingly allow them in.
Remove SIJR Ransomware Virus and also Decrypt Your Files
When trying to remove SIJR ransomware virus, always remember to boot your PC through Safe Mode with Networking first. This set up will make it easier for the antivirus to perform excellently. You’re also advised to download RESTORO to help in restoring your Windows OS files.
After SIJR virus removal, you should consider doing the following:
- Inform law enforcement agencies about the incident.
- Restore lost data with any backup device.
- Learn more about possible methods to restore files locked by STOP/DJVU.
- Change all passwords used in the computer.
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
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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SIJR 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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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. 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 SIJR files
Fix and open large SIJR 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 SIJR 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. SIJR Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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 SIJR 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.
i have sijr virus he take all my files i cant do anything i think its online key i need someone help me please the files are so important for me