Remove TOHJ Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .tohj FILES)

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

TOHJ ransomware is a virtual menace created by STOP/DJVU cybercriminal gang

Contents

TOHJ ransomware is a virtual menace created by STOP/DJVU cybercriminal gang
- Ransom note claims there is no other way but to pay the ransom
- Ransomware Summary
Ransomware distribution relies on email spam and rogue online downloads
Remove TOHJ ransomware virus and secure your computer
Decrypt TOHJ files
Frequently Asked Questions

TOHJ ransomware is a hazardous computer virus recently released by STOP/DJVU malware operators. Its main functionality is to lock files on unprotected systems using cryptography: it encrypts all files stored on a computer, leaving the user no chance to restore them quickly. On top of that, the virus marks each file by appending an additional .tohj file extension. For example, files named 1.jpg or 2.docx will appear as 1.jpg.tohj and 2.docx.tohj after the virus modifies them. In the aftermath of the computer infection, the victim finds out that data can no longer be opened or edited. The ransomware also saves a short note for the victim in a form of a _readme.txt file. This note explains that cybercriminals want the victim to pay a ransom for data decryption tools.

The aim of this malware is to extort the computer user financially. First, the virus infects unprotected system and locks all files on it using encryption. The way encryption works is that in order to access encrypted information, one has to have private decryption key. This is exactly what the cybercriminals offer the victim to “purchase” from them, which is nothing else than extortion. Without the key, there are only a limited amount of options to recover locked data. Therefore, the cybercriminals expect that the victim will obey and pay the ransom.

Ransom note claims there is no other way but to pay the ransom

The _readme.txt note is a small text file that contains a brief message from ransomware operators. The note reassures that the victim can revert all damage by doing what the perpetrators ask to do. They inform that the ransom price is $980, but the attackers are willing to lower it to $490 if the victim acts as told to. The note instructs the reader to contact the cybercriminals within 72 hours and claims that this action will secure the lower ransom amount deal. If the victim fails to do so, the crooks will only accept $980. The only way of contacting the criminals is by sending an email to them via email addresses provided in the ransom note: support@bestyourmail.ch, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.

The note also explains that the victim can send one encrypted file to them to test the decryption service. They promise to reply with a decrypted file version attached. The crooks also state that the victim will receive a functional TOHJ file decryption tool and private key as soon as the ransom payment is received. They also will explain that the only acceptable form of paying is via cryptocurrency. What this means is that the attackers want to ensure their identity stays protected, so they will ask the victim to purchase Bitcoin worth the agreed sum of money and transfer it to the attackers’ virtual wallet address.

Victims should not comply with cybercriminals terms and instead remove TOHJ ransomware virus without a delay. Paying the ransom hardly ensures data recovery, but instead puts the victim at risk of being targeted repeatedly in the future (cybercriminals often target those who comply with their demands). Moreover, ransom payments help the attackers to expand the extent of their operations and therefore attack more computer users. For more guidance, we recommend reading FBI recommendations for ransomware victims.

This ransomware is considered extremely dangerous not only because of its ability to encrypt files, but also because it typically releases a bunch of additional malware to the system, particularly AZORULT or Vidar Trojan. These threats are pieces of malware known for their abilities to steal offline cryptocurrency wallets, browser-saved information, login credentials and other information that is valuable to the victim.

For a secure malware removal, we recommend getting a robust AV solution such as INTEGO Antivirus (tested and trusted by our team). It is also advisable to run the antivirus after booting the system in Safe Mode with Networking as explained in the tutorial provided below the article. Additionally, you may want to repair virus damage on Windows OS files using RESTORO (secure download link), a great PC repair tool. You can find its review here.

Ransomware Summary

Name	TOHJ Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	TOWZ, TOHJ, OFOQ, OFLG, ADWW, ADLG (find full list here)
Version	574th
Extension	.tohj
Cybercriminal emails	support@bestyourmail.ch, 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 .tohj 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
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).

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Ransomware distribution relies on email spam and rogue online downloads

Unlike other ransomware families, STOP/DJVU is primarily intended to attack home computer users, and this is also reflected by distribution strategies chosen by its operators. The main source of infections that almost all victims report is illegal online downloads, mainly those advertised to be installation files for pirated software copies. Victims who search for software cracks online in order to avoid paying for a legitimate software license key risk falling victim to a malware attack. Such activities should be avoided at all costs not only because of risks of getting the computer infected, but also because using and distributing pirated software copies is an act of a copyright infringement itself.

There is a network of websites operated by cybercriminals that regularly post about available “downloads” that are advertised as free and full versions of various software copies. The criminals who operate these websites try to bait victims with popular software brands, promising something they cannot fulfil – such as providing premium software versions for free. These websites provide links leading to either direct downloads (via generated links) or torrent files that can be downloaded via P2P software. However, the victim will find out that the downloaded file is a fake setup.exe file in a password-protected archive. It usually displays a set of errors once launched. In the meantime, the malicious processes are already started and the data encryption begins.

Actors behind this ransomware also use other distribution method that is based on email spam. The criminals often use a disguise when contacting potential victims via email and compose the email in a way so that it appears to be sent by a legitimate entity. For this matter, they may even spoof their email address, insert logos of well-known companies or even include official contact information. Such emails always urge the recipient to open an attached file and view its contents.

The message normally has strong urgent tone claiming that something unpleasant may happen if the victim doesn’t do as recommended. For instance, the email may threaten that the recipient’s bank account will be charged, or that the email account’s password will expire, etc. Victims who act without thinking and open the email attachment will experience a ransomware attack, especially if no antivirus with real-time protection feature is enabled on the system.

In order to avoid such ransomware attacks, we strongly recommend computer users to only download software from official websites or confirmed affiliates. Next, avoid opening emails out of curiosity and if you feel that you have no business with the email sender, or if you can sense that there is something “off” with the email message, avoid interacting with its contents altogether. Instead, delete it.

Remove TOHJ ransomware virus and secure your computer

Computer users who have experienced a ransomware attack should protect their computers and personal information as soon as possible. For this task, we recommend following the guide prepared by our team of cybersecurity experts. First of all, it is a good idea to boot the computer in Safe Mode with Networking, as it disables various processes on the system, including those launched by malware itself. Next, you can remove TOHJ ransomware virus using antivirus or anti-malware solution. Our team recommends a robust AV known as INTEGO Antivirus that offers excellent protection and many features at a fraction of a price.

Once TOHJ virus removal is taken care of, we advise you to change all of the passwords used on the compromised computer. You should also report the incident to law enforcement agency in your local area. Finally, read this guide on how to recover or repair files locked by STOP/DJVU ransomware.

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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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TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

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Decrypt TOHJ files

Fix and open large TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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. TOHJ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like TOWZ, TOHJ, OFOQ, OFLG, ADWW, ADLG (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 TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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 .TOHJ files?

You can only open TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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 TOHJ 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.