Remove URNB Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .urnb FILES)
URNB ransomware restricts access to personal files by encrypting them
Contents
URNB ransomware is a computer virus used as a virtual extortion tool by STOP/DJVU malware operators. It is a confirmed 292nd version that uses RSA encryption algorithm to lock all files on the target Windows computer. Once activated, it makes all files inaccesible and adds .urnb extension after the original one. For example, file originally called 1.jpg becomes 1.jpg.urnb after the attack. To inform the victim about the attack, the ransomware is set to drop a ransom note called _readme.txt into every infected folder. This note explains that the virus’ developers can provide a working file decryption tool if the victim pays specified ransom in cryptocurrency. The note suggests contacting the attackers via two provided emails: helpteam@mail.ch or helpmanager@airmail.cc.
The _readme.txt note informs that all personal files, such as photos, videos, archives, databases and music files were encrypted with the strongest algorithm, and that the only way of restoring files is paying the ransom for cybercriminals. The note suggests that victim should rush to contact the attackers via provided emails within 3 days, which guarantees lower URNB file decryption software price – $490 in Bitcoin. Otherwise, the price bounces back to full, $980 in Bitcoin.
The attackers even suggest testing the decryption tool – they ask to send them one small file for test decryption and promise to send back restored file version. This trick is used by many ransomware operators to convince the victim transfer the money for them.
However, paying cybercriminals is a strict no (according to cyber security specialists and FBI). Some reasons not to pay up include:
- Paying the ransom doesn’t necessarily mean you will recover your files. The criminals might start asking for more money, claim they have stolen your files and threaten to publish them online if you won’t transfer more money.
- Listening to cybercriminals’ demands and transferring money to them means encourages them to continue their activities and target more people. In addition, the amounts ransomware operators extort from victims each year tempts other people join this crime industry as well.
- Ransom payments might be illegal in your country.
- This ransomware silently installs information stealer on your computer (AZORULT Trojan), which can steal various sensitive data including passwords, cryptocurrency wallets and other private details. This can lead to serious problems, including financial losses.
More interesting details about this ransomware
URNB ransomware virus not only encrypts your personal files, but performs a list of other unwanted activities on the system. To prevent the victim from restoring files easily, it executes Command prompt commands to delete Volume Shadow Copies from the system. Next, it modifies Windows HOSTS file to block certain domains (IPs) so that the victim couldn’t access them via web browser. Most of these domains are computer-help related, meaning that the ransomware operators are trying to block sources of cyberattack-related information. Finally, variants of STOP/DJVU ransomware tend to drop information-stealing Trojan on compromised computers. The name of malware used is AZORULT. This malicious Trojan has a lengthy list of functionalities and is capable of stealing information including, but not limited to:
- Telegram and Steam login credentials;
- Browsing history and cookies;
- Cryptocurrency wallets;
- Skype chat history;
- Browser-saved passwords.
In addition to this, the said malware can be used as a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) to execute various commands on the compromised system, such as deleting or downloading files and more. For your security and privacy, we strongly recommend you to remove URNB ransomware virus along with all malware present on your computer and take actions to recover your data today. For virus removal, consider using your security software, then finish the cleaning and repair virus damage on Windows OS files using RESTORO.
Scan your system for FREE to detect security, hardware and stability issues. You can use the scan results and try to remove detected issues 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. Includes Avira spyware/malware detection & removal engine.
Ransomware Details
| Name | URNB Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Previous versions | VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (find full list here) |
| Version | 292nd |
| Extension | .urnb |
| Damage | Using RSA algorithm, the virus encrypts files on the PC and marks them with additional extension, then drops a ransom note in every folder. Following that, the ransomware might drop AZORULT Trojan on the computer. The ransomware deletes Volume Shadow Copies to prevent easy data recovery for the victim. Alterations to Windows HOSTS file are also done to prevent victim from accessing computer-help sites online. |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | Spreads via torrent downloads, software cracks, keygens or KMSPico. |
| Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Glupteba (Microsoft), Glupteba.Backdoor.Bruteforce.DDS (Malwarebytes), TR/AD.InstaBot.ysgps (Avira), HEUR:Exploit.Win32.Shellcode.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.Crypt (A)(Emsisoft), see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Remove the ransomware using security software of your choice. To repair virus damage on Windows OS, download and scan with RESTORO. |
Avoid ransomware infections easily: common distribution tricks
URBN ransomware’s most commonly used distribution method is closely tied to illegal online downloads. This technique has been long used for distribution of other STOP/DJVU variants. It appears that the ransomware operators hide malware payloads in illegal torrents, mostly copyright-protected software or game versions. These can be found on various file sharing websites and downloaded via torrent clients. Unfortunately, users who look for cracked software versions are also willing to ignore their security software warnings about potential malware, thinking these are simply false alarms. Unfortunately, cracked software is a well-known and popular malware distribution tool.
If you’re looking for a specific software or a movie online, make sure you access it using legitimate sources only. If you come across websites that offer paid products for free, it is either a scam or most likely malicious. Please, stay away from such downloads if you want to keep your data secure and avoid having to deal with financial or private data losses.
Another common way to spread malware is distributing it over email spam. The criminals typically create emails suggesting there is an important document or invoice that the user needs to review and reply as soon as possible. Using well-known and reputable company names and logos is also a technique that is used to convince the victim the email is legit. Besides, with techniques like email address spoofing, it is getting harder and harder to identify deceptive emails. Our recommendation is to stick with emails that you actually waited and communicate with on a regular basis. Do not let your curiosity trick you into opening a highly infectious email attachment or link sent by crooks.
Finally, criminals tend to distribute malware via fake online ads. That said, you can come across Adobe Flash Player or Java update suggestions that’ll simply drop malware on your computer. These ads can pop-up when visiting highly untrustworthy websites, typically adult-only or gambling related. Additionally, be careful when looking for ransomware decryptors online. Cybercriminals know that ransomware victims search for these tools desperately, so they might set up another trap to infect the victim with even more malware. For example, Zorab ransomware operators were advertising a fake STOP/DJVU decryption tool to spread their own malware via it.
Remove URNB ransomware virus as soon as possible
You should remove URNB ransomware virus as quickly as you can, because keeping it and related malware on your computer leaves it vulnerable to other cyberattacks. The easiest way to remove such kind of virus is deleting it in Safe Mode with Networking as explained below.
After URNB ransomware virus removal, do not forget to report cybercrime incident to a corresponding authority in your country. For your own security, we recommend changing all of your passwords for social media, emails and other accounts (due to possibility of Azorult’s installation). Finally, start testing file recovery/repair methods explained below.
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
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URNB ransomware Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove URNB ransomware 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 URNB ransomware 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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RESTORO is a unique PC Repair Tool which comes with an in-built Avira scan engine to detect and remove spyware/malware threats and uses a patented technology to repair virus damage. The software can repair damaged, missing or malfunctioning Windows OS files, corrupted DLLs, and more. The free version offers a scan that detects issues. To fix them, license key for the full software version must be purchased.
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.
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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 URNB files
Fix and open large URNB 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 URNB 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. URNB ransomware 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 URNB 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 URNB 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 URNB 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 URNB 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 URNB ransomware 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 URNB 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 URNB 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 URNB 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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