TUIS ransomware attacks your files and leaves them encrypted
Contents
TUIS is a ransomware-type virus that aims to encrypt every single personal file on your computer. It makes them unusable and marks each of them with an additional .tuis extension. This virus is recognized version of STOP/DJVU ransomware, so it also drops ransom notes called _readme.txt throughout the file system. These notes explain that data was encrypted, and the only way to restore data back to normal is to pay a ransom for cybercriminals.
STOP/DJVU ransomware variants like TUIS virus use cryptography to lock files on the target system. While cryptography itself is a legitimate procedure that is applied in various technologies today for information security, cybercriminals make a bad use of it. They keep the decryption key as hostage and demand the computer user to pay a ransom for it. In this case, the decryption key is the tool that is required to “unlock” your files, or in other words, decrypt them.
What do the cybercriminals want
The cybercriminals leave a message for the confused computer user in text files dropped in each data folder. These text files are named as _readme.txt, and each of them carries an identical message for the victim. It states that all of user’s photos, videos, music files, documents and archives were locked with the strongest encryption type and unique key. Since there is no way to reverse the damage except paying a ransom, the criminals insist that the victim should contact them via provided email addresses: support@fishmail.top or datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.
The note also introduces pricing of TUIS data decryption tool, or, in other words, the ransom amount. It explains that the victim is obliged to pay $980 if one wants to restore all data, however, if the victim writes to the criminals via provided email addresses within 72 hours (3 days), then the crooks promise a 50% price slash, setting the ransom amount to $490. However, no matter the discount applied, you should never pay up.
FBI, NCSC and other ransomware help resources clearly suggest that paying the ransom is a bad choice as it never guarantees data recovery, but encourages the cybercriminals and allows them to increase their capacity even more. With money collected from ransomware victims, they can live luxurious lifestyle, plus employ even more people to work in their illegal operations.
It seems that ransom isn’t the only thing that cybercriminals seek to receive from the computer user. This malicious ransomware is known to arrive in tandem with information-stealing Trojans, such as VIDAR or AZORULT. These threats are designed to be controlled remotely to steal sensitive data from compromised computer, including browser-saved passwords, browsing history, cookies, banking details and so on.
In order to remove malevolent software from your computer and keep it protected from now on, we recommend that you download and set up a robust antivirus solution like INTEGO Antivirus. Please follow the instructions provided below the article to understand how to boot the PC in Safe Mode with Networking first.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | TUIS 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 | 582nd |
| Extension | .tuis |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@fishmail.top and 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 .tuis 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 like INTEGO Antivirus. |
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Ransomware distribution and ways to avoid getting infected
Ransomware-type threats are mostly distributed via techniques that are meant to deceive the potential victim and trick one into downloading the malware manually, for example, via malicious email attachments, rogue downloads or fake online ads. There are other, more sophisticated ways to infect computers or networks, but since STOP/DJVU is targeted at home computer users, we won’t discuss these methods in this article.
STOP/DJVU ransomware mainly awaits for potential victims in deceptive websites claiming to provide software cracks, key generators and other illegal tools used to activate pirated software versions. This is why it is important to stay away from not genuine software versions and visit official websites to get your downloads only.
Malicious email spam also remains a very prevalent way to distribute ransomware. Cybercriminals often pretend to be writing on behalf of a well-known company or governmental organization, besides, they name the malicious attachments as invoices, order summaries or other documents used in regular daily business communications. We advise users to lookout for these warning signs in the email: unfamiliar greeting line, such as “Dear customer,” grammar mistakes, spoofed sender’s email address, and urgent tone.
Finally, those who wish to avoid getting infected with ransomware should create regular backups and avoid visiting bogus online websites filled with aggressive ads. Moreover, you should never allow downloads from websites you do not trust. Finally, securing your computer with an antivirus that offers real-time protection is simply a must.
Remove TUIS ransomware virus and get your computer protected
The top-priority task for anyone infected with this severe threat is to remove TUIS ransomware virus with no further hesitation. For this task, we recommend booting the system into Safe Mode with Networking and using an antivirus solution of your choice to delete malicious components belonging to malware. We recommend INTEGO Antivirus as we find it to be tone of the best AV solutions available on the market today.
Once TUIS virus removal is finalized, do not forget to change all of your passwords used on the infected computer (in browsers and individual apps).
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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:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS files
Fix and open large TUIS 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 TUIS 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. TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 TUIS 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 read this article because recently I used a company in Australia (fastdatarecovery or something like that) to recover my computer from the .tuis ransomware with the online key version. Only company that I could find that could decrypt my files. Cost $1000.00 including their expedited service with virus removal. Took them about 4 days but, they got it all. They guaranteed if they couldn’t decrypt it, they would refund everything. But, I’m kinda wondering if they might be working with the criminals, maybe they gave them half the fee for the key? I know how difficult decryption can be so, it’s not unreasonable to think like that. Also, shortly afterwards I started getting e-mails with password dumps of all my passwords and now they wanted around $1000 in bitcoin. I had to login to every online account I had and setup 2-factor authentication, and change passwords. I’m using Avast, Malwarebytes and Emsisoft Anti Malware now. These people are loser low life’s just trying to survive. Can’t really hate or be mad at them but, I wouldn’t buy them a beer.
It is highly likely that the company has scammed you, since they asked more than cybercriminals are asking for data decryption – there are many scammers promising to decrypt files, while they pay the ransom on your behalf and take additional money for the service. You might be getting password dumps because STOP/DJVU ransomware spreads together with password-stealing malware (VIDAR/AZORULT), therefore they’re trying to extort more money from you. You did the right thing by changing all the passwords, as we recommend in our article.
We do not encourage ransomware payments in any form. You can remove malware yourself by using a robust antivirus solution while in Safe Mode with Networking.