Remove TYWD Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .tywd FILES)

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

TYWD ransomware locks files, demands a ransom

Contents

TYWD ransomware locks files, demands a ransom
How did this ransomware get on your computer?
Remove TYWD ransomware virus and protect your computer
Decrypt TYWD files
Frequently Asked Questions

TYWD is a ransomware-type computer virus that has been recently released by the STOP/DJVU ransomware operators. It operates by encrypting all files on the system using a robust cryptography algorithm, then it also adds .tywd extension to each filename. Going further, the computer user will discover that it is no longer possible to open photos, documents, archives and other files. The virus also creates and saves copies of _readme.txt file in each data folder. This file is widely known as the ransom note, and it contains instructions from the cybercriminals behind the attack.

The main aim of this ransomware is to restrict computer user’s access to files, so it is programmed to modify them with robust encryption algorithm. Once launched on the system, the malware attempts to connect to its Command&Control server and request an online encryption key, unique per each victim.

If this fails, it falls back to so-called offline encryption mode and uses a key that is hardcoded in the ransomware variant itself. What this means that victims affected by offline encryption can all decrypt their files using the same key, while victims whose files were locked with online keys cannot use anyone else’s key for data decryption.

As soon as the ransomware determines which encryption type it is going to use, it begins scanning the system for personal files and modifying them. Once encrypted, files can be unlocked with a corresponding TYWD file decryption software and key only. Of course, victims who have created data backups previously can also recover their files for free.

Overview of the ransom note

Now that all data has been locked, the ransomware prepares instructions for the computer user to read. It saves them into _readme.txt files. The note states that in order to decrypt .tywd extension files, the victim has to pay a ransom in Bitcoin. The note says the regular decryption price is $980, but those who contact the ransomware operators within 72 hours can pay $490 instead.

The note lists two email addresses – support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc and instructs the victim to write a message to them. If the victim wants to get a proof that the attackers can actually restore locked files, they can attach a test file and also include the Personal ID provided in the ransom note. The Personal ID allows attackers to identify the victim and find the corresponding decryption key.

However, FBI doesn’t recommend paying ransoms to cybercriminals. We also support this idea because paying up doesn’t actually guarantee successful data recovery. It only encourages cybercriminals to continue their activities and expand their circle. Besides, scammers tend to see victims who pay up as easy targets, so they may try to extort more money from you or try to target you in future attacks.

Encryption isn’t the only damage: learn about malware that accompanies this ransomware

TYWD ransomware samples that we have analyzed contained additional malware alongside them. To be specific, these file-encrypting threats often carry Vidar (stealer that grabs computer and OS information, account login credentials, credit card details, browser history, cookies, and more), RedLine (malware that steals saved login credentials, credit card information, and autocomplete data) or AZORult (information and cryptocurrency stealer).

These threats are capable of stealing and transmitting sensitive data to cybercriminals, and such data can later be used to hack user’s accounts or cause financial damage. In addition, these threats may be able to carry out additional tasks on compromised systems, including deleting user’s files or downloading additional malware.

To secure your computer, we recommend that you remove TYWD ransomware virus and other malware immediately. It is ideal if you can use an antivirus software, because automatic malware removal is usually a safer option. Attempts to identify and delete malware components manually can result in only partial removal of computer infections.

If you’re looking for a good antivirus software to use, our team recommends INTEGO Antivirus. Another great software that you can download is RESTORO (official download link). It is known to be beneficial when it comes to repairing virus-damaged Windows OS files and components.

Ransomware Summary

Name	TYWD Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (find full list here)
Version	671th
Extension	.tywd
Cybercriminal emails	support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult, RedLine or Vidar
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .tywd 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, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends.
Detection names	Trojan:Win32/Azorult.FW!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. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link).

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How did this ransomware get on your computer?

Computer users infected with TYWD virus or another version of STOP/DJVU ransomware usually report the same activities that led them to malware exposure. Most of the file-encrypting viruses that target home computer users spread through fake software cracks, infectious spam email attachments and exploits. See overview of each of these techniques below.

Software cracks. Computer users who tend to visit shady online resources offering software cracks or keygens are at high risk of getting infected with STOP/DJVU ransomware. In fact, it is known to be its primary distribution method. There are numerous deceptive websites posing as software crack sites, although their sole aim is to distribute ransomware and other malware variants. To avoid getting infected from software cracks, only download genuine software versions.

Malicious email attachments. Cybercriminals tend to create phishing emails that are designed to trick recipients into thinking that the email comes from a trustworthy sender, such as well-known company, online retailer or even a government entity. The phishing emails usually contain attachments disguised as invoices, parcel tracking information, order summaries, waybills, pending payment information, and similar documents.

The scammers hope that the victim will open the malware-laced attachment, and the malicious code gets launched on the computer, thus infecting the system and encrypting files on it. To avoid getting infected via email attachments, never open email attachments sent by unknown or unrecognised senders. Look out for other suspicious signs, such as strange sender’s email address, grammar and spelling mistakes in the message, and urgent tone asking you to open email attachments or click on links.

Software vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals often target vulnerabilities in target’s computer or installed software. They set up exploits in malicious landing pages and the malicious code attempts to find out if victim’s computer contains vulnerabilities in browser-based applications. If a vulnerability is detected, the cybercriminals will use it to launch malware on victim’s computer. To avoid getting infected through this technique, computer users should always install software updates whenever they’re released. This applies to applications, browser extensions and operating system itself.

Remove TYWD ransomware virus and protect your computer

You can find an extensive guide on how to remove TYWD ransomware virus and related threats below. Make sure you stay attentive during the malware removal procedure. You will need to boot your computer into Safe Mode with Networking and then run a strong antivirus solution. Our team recommends using INTEGO Antivirus, although you can rely on the one you like – just make sure to update it before running a scan.

Additional recommendation is to repair virus-damaged Windows OS files. You can download RESTORO for this task. Once all malware is detected and removed, change your login credentials saved on the compromised host and take actions to secure your accounts (for example, by enabling 2FA authentication).

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TYWD 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 TYWD 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 TYWD 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.

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Decrypt TYWD files

Fix and open large TYWD 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 TYWD 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. TYWD Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (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 TYWD 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 TYWD 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 TYWD 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 TYWD 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 TYWD 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 .TYWD files?

You can only open TYWD 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 TYWD 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 TYWD 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.