TURY ransomware seeks to extort computer users after locking their files
Contents
TURY ransomware is a malicious file-encrypting computer virus. It is a confirmed variant of STOP/DJVU malware, therefore its aim is to encrypt all files on the system, append .tury extensions to their original names, and leave _readme.txt ransom notes in each folder. For example, files originally named 1.jpg or 2.docx will appear as 1.jpg.tury and 2.docx.tury and the victim won’t be able to open them, no matter what program is used. Once the virus damages user’s personal files, it proceeds to delete Volume Shadow Copies and release additional information-stealing Trojans.
Once the damage is done, the computer user discovers that files can no longer be opened, viewed, or edited. This happens because files are encrypted, and the only way to restore them is to apply a matching decryption key along with specific software; at this point, the user might notice ransom notes saved in each folder, and they deliver an offer from the cybercriminals: purchase the decryption software from them or forget the data for good.
Ransom note contains more details regarding the cyberattack
The ransom note created by the virus is normally saved into each folder containing at least one encrypted file; the note explains that the only way for victim to restore lost data is to pay for TURY file decryption tool and private key.
The _readme.txt file contains two email addresses belonging to the criminals: support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc and the victim is instructed to write an email to them within 72 hours in hopes to get the decryption price reduced in half. The way this works is the initial decryption service price, or the ransom amount is $980, but if the victim contacts the perpetrators within 3 full days, they promise to set the price to $490.
The note also recommends inserting the victim’s Personal ID (provided in the ransom note) and one sample of encrypted data into the email. The note specifies that the victim can test the decryption on one file that doesn’t contain valuable information.
However, various organizations and law enforcement agencies confirm that paying a ransom is not a good idea. FBI, NCSC and others confirm that paying the criminals only encourages them to continue ransomware operations. Moreover, victims who pay up are often targeted by cybercriminals again.
Another additional damage inflicted by the ransomware but isn’t described in the ransom note is installation of either VIDAR or AZORULT Trojans, as both of these are noticed during analysis of malicious file samples responsible for carrying TURY ransomware payload. These threats are capable of stealing private details such as browser-saved passwords and sending them to criminals.
If your computer was compromised by this described malware variant, we strongly recommend that you remove TURY ransomware virus and related viruses from the system now. Read the guide provided below and prepare the system for malware removal by booting it in Safe Mode with Networking; next, run an up-to-date antivirus solution to detect malware components automatically. Our team’s pick is INTEGO Antivirus, which has proved to be extremely powerful when detecting, removing and blocking ransomware attacks.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | TURY 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 | 585th |
| Extension | .tury |
| 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 .tury 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 explained
In order to avoid ransomware attacks, it is beneficial to get to know better how these computer threats spread. The majority of them are targeted at home computer users, therefore the cybercriminals distribute them via malicious email spam containing attachments, rogue online ads or via fake online downloads deceptively advertised as popular software cracks. The latter method is the most common one when it comes to STOP/DJVU ransomware distribution and versions like TURY virus.
The way this ransomware strain finds its way into users’ computers is simple: the criminals have a network of rogue websites that claim to provide popular software cracks. These websites usually provide several links that allow the victim to choose between a torrent or direct download. One way or another, the user ends up with a password-protected archive that contains setup.exe file packed with malware. Therefore, people who try to install popular software without paying for its genuine version that requires license key for activation, risk infecting their computers with severe malware set.
Computer users should stay cautious when visiting suspicious websites offering downloads, and should remember that the only safe way to get software is to visit its official website or a confirmed partner site. Attempts to cut corners and save money will result in much higher expenses once the malware damages all data stored on the system.
Moreover, computer users can accidentally download ransomware via email. Scammers send out thousands of deceptive messages using leaked email lists and claim that the target has to view attached file or link in order to access relevant information. Most of the time, the email has urgent tone and claims something unpleasant might happen if the user won’t take action quickly. For example, such scam emails might state that user’s bank account will be charged, or that there is a payment pending for approval, or that the user’s email account will be blocked. Users should be cautious and avoid clicking URLs or email attachments that accompany such suspicious messages. Most of the time, these aren’t true statements and doing as such email says can get you in a lot of trouble.
Remove TURY ransomware virus and protect your computer
Computer users affected by this ransomware should protect their computers ASAP. The guide provided below explains how to remove TURY ransomware virus effectively. If you’re unsure which antivirus brand to choose, our team recommends INTEGO Antivirus. You can find its review here.
Once TURY virus removal is completed, do not forget to change all of the passwords used on the compromised computer.
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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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TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY files
Fix and open large TURY 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 TURY 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. TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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 TURY 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.
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