Remove WBXD Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .wbxd FILES)
WBXD Ransomware seeks to take your files hostage
Contents
WBXD is a dangerous computer virus that belongs to ransomware category. It is recognized as the 276th version from the STOP/DJVU ransomware family. This malicious virus is using RSA cryptography to lock victim’s documents, photos, archives and other files. During the attack, each affected file gets appended with .wbxd extension. For example, file called 1.docx becomes 1.docx.wbxd. In addition, victims find _readme.txt notes created by the virus in every data folder. This note delivers a message from cybercriminals behind the attack, who demand paying a ransom for data decryption. According to them, the decryption key and software can cost $490-$980 in Bitcoin, based on how quickly the victim contacts them and pays the ransom. The attackers suggest writing to them via helpmanager@mail.ch or helpmanager@airmail.cc.
In addition, the criminals suggest decrypting one .wbxd file for free. They ask the victim to attach one small file that doesn’t contain important information and send it to them alongside a personal ID that is included in the _readme.txt note. The ransomware developers also suggest that the decryption software costs $490 if paid within 3 days, or $980 later. However, they always ask to transfer the ransom via cryptocurrency to their provided virtual wallet address. This helps the attackers to circumvent legal and tracking systems and keep their anonymity.
The problem is that there are no real guarantees that the attackers will decrypt your files successfully. Needless to say, these cybercriminals only want to extort you and force you to pay a hefty ransom. Besides, paying a ransom is illegal in some countries; moreover, it is not recommended to pay up, as this keeps the whole cybercrime industry going.
The easiest way to recover after WBXD ransomware attack is to uninstall the malware and recover files using data backups. Additionally, you should check whether your files were encrypted with online or offline encryption key (see this guide on that) and try Emsisoft decryptor for STOP/DJVU afterward. We have provided a short guide how to use it and how to interpret decryptor’s messages at the end of this tutorial.
It is essential to remove WBXD ransomware as soon as possible because it can cause even more damage to your system. Besides, some versions of STOP/DJVU are known to deliver AZORULT (password-stealer) and Glupteba malware into the system, which increases the risk of additional damage. To remove the virus, use the tutorial provided below along with your favourite anti-malware or antivirus program. For virus damage repair, we strongly recommend scanning with RESTORO.
Scan your system for FREE to 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. Includes Avira spyware/malware detection & removal engine.
| Name | WBXD Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Tool |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Version | 276th |
| Extension | .wbxd |
| Damage | Encrypts all personal files, installs password-stealer malware, deletes Volume Shadow Copies and demands paying a ransom |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | Hides in a form of software crack or keygen, mostly via torrent downloads for illegally distributed paid software versions |
| Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Glupteba (Microsoft), TR/AD.InstaBot.ysgps (Avira), Gen:Variant.Bulz.311604 (B) (Emsisoft), see full list of names on VT |
| Removal | Remove the ransomware using trsuwtorthy anti-malware first. Scan with RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files afterward. |
Ransomware distribution methods you should know
Malware like STOP/DJVU ransomware and its versions such as WBXD extension virus tend to hide in illegal downloads mostly. The majority of computer users get their computers infected after downloading a cracked software versions from unconfirmed torrent-hosting websites and running the crack or keygen itself. The biggest problem is that computer users often ignore the warnings displayed by Windows Defender or other security programs installed on the system simply because they believe it is a false alarm.
We strongly advise you to obtain legitimate software versions from trustworthy sources only, ideally from the software vendor’s website itself. Otherwise, trying to avoid the subscription fee can result in much bigger expenses.
Another well-known way that cybercriminals use to spread malware is infectious email spam campaigns. Lately, the most popular technique is sending fake parcel delivery emails from companies such as DPD, DHL or UPS to thousands of potential targets at once. These emails ask to open an attached invoice or click on a malicious link. The attackers might also send fake messages to “inform” about a missing/pending payment, urging to review attached contents and reply to the email. Unfortunately, you should never do so as this can immediately infect your computer and cause damage to information stored on your PC.
Finally, clicking shady links or visiting untrustworthy websites online can also land you malware infection. Our recommendation is to never click on suspicious ads or agree to install updates suggested by random websites. For instance, many spyware/malware programs are distributed via fake JAVA update pop-ups. If you want to be certain that you actually need a software update, head to its official developer’s website and download updates from there.
Learn to remove WBXD ransomware virus easily
If you’re looking for an easy way to remove WBXD ransomware virus, look no further. You can find detailed and professional instructions right below. Make sure you carry out each step attentively to ensure complete malware removal. Finally, you can try the data recovery suggestions listed below.
WBXD virus removal is essential if you want to safely use your computer ever again. Speaking of data recovery, you should try methods available today. Additionally, we recommend you to start creating data backups regularly.
The final action after this Internet incident that you need to take is report it to a proper institution in your country. You can find a list of directions and tips below.
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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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WBXD 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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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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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.
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 WBXD files
Fix and open large WBXD 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 WBXD 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. WBXD ransomware virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD, EYRV, UIGD, VLFF (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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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 WBXD 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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