How to remove Retis ransomware

Retis ransomware gives 24 hours to pay the ransom

Retis virus belongs to the ransomware family since it is designed to encode data on the victimized computer. Following the encryption, it appends .crypted extension at the end of the filename and changes the wallpaper to the ransom note named RANSOM.png. While this crypto-malware initially targets French people, experts note that it might be soon updated to spread worldwide. 

The authors of this file-encrypting virus identify themselves as Hack Lab by RETIS on the ransom note. It is believed that they employ sophisticated AES algorithms to encode information and profit from inexperienced computer users^[1]. However, it is currently unknown how much money they demand to pay for Retis decryptor, and there are no contact emails indicated.

This suggests the ransomware might be still under development and you have a chance to recover your files easily if you perform Retis removal as soon as possible. Note that hackers aim to extort as many people as possible. Likewise, there is a strong possibility that they will update it soon to make even more damage.

The translation of Retis ransom note:

Your office, photos, data and other essential files were encrypted with a robust algorithm,
and a unique key is generated for this computer. 
The secret key for decrypting your data is stored on the Internet server,
and no one can decode your files until you pay to receive it. 
You have 24 hours to send us the ransom.

WHEN THE TIME ENDS YOUR KEY WILL BE DELETED FROM OUR SERVERS,
AND YOU MAY NOT REACH YOUR DATA.

People are urged to pay the ransom in 24 hours, or their decryption key will be deleted from the servers. As a result, victims are claimed to be unable to recover files and access their data. However, we still suggest you remove Retis since our team has prepared several effective methods how you can alternatively retrieve your data without paying the ransom.

Use FortectIntego to get rid of Retis ransomware right when it infects your system. You can use the guide below which will briefly explain you what to do step-by-step and suggest alternative recovery techniques to regain access to your files and valuable information.

Ransomware distribution: spam emails, P2P networks, malware-laden ads

The most widely used way to distribute file-encrypting viruses is to send emails containing malicious attachments to the potential victims^[2]. Usually, the letter looks genuine and supposedly holds “very important” information. Likewise, people are encouraged to click on the attachment/link to receive the invoice or another document. If they do so, the ransomware infiltrates on the system.

Moreover, criminals tend to put obfuscate executables of the malware on peer-to-peer networks where people share files. To trick their targets into downloading them, they imitate popular software or their updates, such as Adobe Flash Player. Even though the file looks like a legitimate program, it is merely a deceptive appearance hiding the ransomware inside.

Also, since it is now almost impossible to avoid ads, it becomes harder to determine their origins. Therefore, hackers try to benefit from the advertising by placing malware-laden ads which either lead to their managed pages or automatically start ransomware installation. Thus, stay away from advertisements all the time.

Retis virus elimination: get rid of the ransomware with the antivirus tool

NoVirus.uk^[3] team says that ransomware-type infections are highly dangerous — they can not only harm your system but also imitate regular computer processes to hinder the elimination procedure. Likewise, you should ensure Retis removal to the robust security software which will automatically detect and terminate the malicious program.

Download FortectIntego, FortectIntego, or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes and let it scan your computer files thoroughly. It will remove Retis in several minutes, and you will be able to focus on data recovery. Don't forget to use the instructions below which will show you how to restore data in case you don't have backups.