Remove UFWJ Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .ufwj FILES)
UFWJ ransomware is a digital extortion tool set to encrypt your files
Contents
UFWJ ransomware appears to be the latest STOP/DJVU virus variant that encrypts all files on the target computer and connected drives using the RSA Salsa20 algorithm. During the attack, the virus marks each file with an additional .ufwj extension and leaves a ransom note called _readme.txt in the same folder. This note explains that all of the victim’s files have been locked with the strongest encryption algorithms and in order to decrypt .ufwj files, the victim needs to pay a ransom for the cybercriminals. According to them, the decryption software costs $490 if paid within 72 hours, or $980 later. The only way to contact the developers of this malware is by writing to one of the given emails: manager@mailtemp.ch or helpmanager@airmail.cc.
UFWJ ransomware was made for only one purpose – to turn the target computer’s files inaccessible until the victim does what the criminals want. Considering the amount of work, study or personal memories people keep on their computers, the attackers expect that the victim will be willing to pay the insane amount of money they demand. We must mention that this virus is set to encrypt only the first 150 KB of each file to complete the attack sooner. Consequently, the victim may succeed in decrypting or repairing specific file formats with some data loss at the beginning of the file. For instance, audio files can be restored with some seconds of the recording missing at the beginning of it. You can learn more about using the available repair tool in this guide provided by our team.
The ransom note (_readme.txt) can be found in every computer folder and it contains a threatening message from virus developers who claim that the only way to restore personal files is paying a ransom. In this note, they also introduce the UFWJ decryption tool pricing – the victim needs to write to the criminals and follow all of their commands within 72 hours to get a 50% discount for the decryption software. If the victim fails to do so, they threaten to increase the decryption price to $980. After writing to the criminals, the victim will also find out that they want the transaction to be made using cryptocurrency (most likely Bitcoin). This requirement is associated with the fact that such transactions cannot be used to track criminals down.
In addition, the attackers try to encourage the victim to ‘trust’ their words and suggest testing the decryption on one small file. In order to do that, the victim needs to attach one small encrypted file to the email to them and also include victim’s personal ID string which can be found in the ransom note.
No matter what criminals promise you, it is not worth paying the ransom. Geek’s Advice team as well as FBI recommend not to pay the ransom due to the given reasons:
- There is no guarantee that paying the criminals will end in a way you expect – they might not provide you with functional decryption software or start demanding more money.
- Remember that paying a ransom might be illegal in your country.
- Ransomware operators collect millions in ransoms from computer users and companies yearly. The only thing that keeps them going and expanding their operations is money, so please, do not contribute to the growth of this cybercrime industry by spending your hard-earned money!
- Stop/Djvu variants, including UFWJ virus, are known to install information-stealing Remote Access Trojan called AZORULT. Therefore, even if you manage to decrypt your files, the criminals may try to infect your computer again or blackmail you using the information they managed to collect.
Ransomware damage in detail
After entering the victim’s computer system, UFWJ ransomware runs a set of processes. One of the first ones is winupdate.exe, which is simply nothing else but a fake Windows update prompt. Its purpose is to deceive the victim and make one believe that the system slowdown is caused by a Windows update. However, at the same time the virus runs a 4-character named process (for example, D5G7.exe) that encrypts all files on the computer and marks them with additional extension identical to the virus name.
It also leaves _readme.txt files in every folder and deletes Volume Shadow Copies from the system by opening Command Prompt and entering the following command:
vssadmin.exe Delete Shadows /All /Quiet
Once VSS is gone, the victim no longer can restore files using System Restore Points. Additionally, it adds a list of computer help related domains to Windows HOSTS file and associates them with victim’s localhost IP, thus making them inaccessible to the computer user. In order words, if the user tries to enter one of the blocked domains, DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error will come up in web browser. The virus also saves victim’s identification number in the PersonalID.txt file and also the same ID along with the public encryption key used in bowsakkdestx.txt file. A screenshot of such file contents is shown in the image below.
In addition to modifying victim’s files, this ransomware also has a tendency to drop AZORULT password stealer on the computer, which is a dangerous password-stealing Trojan. The list of its capabilities is lengthy, as it can be used to remotely perform various illegal activities on victim’s computer, including, but not limited, to:
- Downloading malware to the computer and running it;
- Stealing Steam, Telegram login credentials;
- Viewing or deleting files on victim’s computer;
- Stealing cryptocurrency wallets;
- Stealing browser cookies, saved passwords, browsing history and more.
Considering the damage done to your system by this stealthy malware, we strongly recommend you to clean the system as soon as possible. Remove UFWJ ransomware virus along with other malware using professional software such as INTEGO Antivirus and then consider scanning with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | UFWJ Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (find full list here) |
| Version | 316th |
| Extension | .ufwj |
| Dropper | SmokeLoader (see VirusTotal details) |
| Damage | The virus scans the whole computer system and encrypts target files with RSA Salsa20 . The ransomware also marks each file with extra .ufwj extension and saves _readme.txt note in the containing folder. It also removes Volume Shadow Copies from the system. Finally, it uploads a list of blocked domain names to Windows HOSTS file. |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | Hides in illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, key generators or tools like KMSPico. |
| Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Glupteba (Microsoft), VHO:Trojan-Spy.Win32.Stealer.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Variant.Graftor.974954 (BitDefender), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec), W32.Trojan.Gen (Webroot) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using professional software of your choice. We highly recommend using INTEGO Antivirus. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO. |
REMOVE MALWARE & REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE
1 Step. Get robust antivirus to remove existing threats and enable real-time protection
INTEGO Antivirus for Windows provides robust real-time protection, Web Shield against phishing and deceptive websites, blocks malicious downloads and blocks Zero-Day threats. Use it to remove ransomware and other viruses from your computer professionally.
2 Step. Repair Virus Damage on Windows Operating System Files
Download RESTORO to scan your system for FREE and 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.
Get to know ransomware distribution techniques to avoid getting infected again
Ransomware-type computer threats are spread in traditional malware distribution ways such as malicious email attachments, illegal downloads and similar. When it comes to STOP/DJVU variants such as UFWJ virus, these are exclusively distributed via illegal software downloads only. In other words, if you tend to search for software cracks and other tools used to illegally activate paid software versions, you risk infecting your computer with this ransomware strain as well as other malware. Cybercriminals behind this virus tend to inject malicious scripts into these kinds of downloads, and once the victim opens them, the script downloads and executes the malware on victim’s computer. Some of the program names that criminals use to pack the payload in, as reported by STOP/DJVU victims, are:
- Adobe Photoshop;
- Corel Draw;
- Cubase;
- Adobe Illustrator;
- Windows activation tools such as KMSPico.
However, you should remember that this list is not complete and that the malware can hide in other software cracks as well. Please visit the official software developer’s site to get a legitimate copy of the software that you want instead of trying to bypass license fees. Besides, remember that using software obtained in such deceptive ways can result in fines for you as well.
Another frequent technique to spread malware is by composing malicious DOCX, PDF, XLS or other format files and attaching them to deceptive emails that criminals distribute to thousands of people. They often obtain potential target lists from various data leaks and use their emails to send specifically crafted messages, often asking to review missing/pending payments, purchase receipts or invoices and reply as soon as possible. However, these attachments are fake and only include a script that, once activated, runs malware on victim’s computer. For this reason, we advise you to be extremely careful with unexpected emails you receive. If you didn’t wait for a specific email or the sender wasn’t supposed to contact you, better not let your curiosity take over. In addition, even if the sender’s email looks legitimate, you should know that it can be spoofed as explained in this article.
Final distribution technique that we want to discuss is extremely relevant to people who have already fallen victims to ransomware. It appears that malevolent actors are uploading fake decryption tools to various sites, promising to decrypt victim’s files while the executable behind it is another obfuscated ransomware. Opening such file can result in double-file encryption. One ransomware strain that’s known for usage of such technique is ZORAB.
Remove UFWJ ransomware virus and decrypt or repair your files
Now that you have learned everything about this specific malware that compromised your computer and encrypted your personal files, it is time to learn how to recover from this attack. We strongly recommend you to remove UFWJ ransomware virus along other threats on your computer using INTEGO Antivirus and then scan with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files.
After successful UFWJ virus removal, take the following steps:
- Inform a local authority about a cybercrime incident case.
- Use data backups to restore as many files as possible.
- See these instructions on how to decrypt or repair files affected by STOP/DJVU versions.
- We also recommend changing your passwords, especially for sites that you chose to save login credentials for in your browser.
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
GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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
Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.
System Mechanic Ultimate Defense
If you're looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek's Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.
Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.
Decrypt UFWJ files
Fix and open large UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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. UFWJ ransomware virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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 UFWJ 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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View Comments
Dear,
Thanks in Advance,
My system has been affected by .Ufwj Ransomeware Virus, then unknowingly i formatted and reinstalled Windows 10 ,
How can i restore that files , I have only around 300 mb Auto CAD files need to be recovered ,
is this possible ? , If Possible please guide me how to recover.
Please