How to remove Java NotDharma ransomware

Java NotDharma ransomware is a crypto-virus which showed up in April 2018

Java NotDharma is a ransomware virus that targets multiple file types on the PC and locks them up using .java extension. The original file that distributes the payload is unknown; however, soon after rooting itself deep within the system, the virus drops ransom note called Decrypt Instructions.txt.

The victim is explained that he or she has to contact hackers using fgghtdfg@cock.li email address. Typically, cybercriminals demand a ransom to be paid in digital currency, such as Bitcoin or Monero. Allegedly, after the money is transferred, the user is awarded a decryptor that can unlock all the compromised files.

As it appends .java extension to each of the files, it was first speculated that the virus might be a variant of the infamous Dharma ransomware. However, it did not turn out to be true. Hence, security experts gave this ransomware Java NotDharma name.

To be able to boot itself with even launch of the system, Java NotDharma firstly modifies certain operating system configuration files. Quite often, the ransomware affects the computer in a way that allows it to bypass any security software.

If you do not possess any anti-virus program, download and install FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. These programs will help you to remove Java NotDharma ransomware. However, you have to boot your PC in Safe Mode with networking before proceeding.

The malicious payload is distributed via phishing emails,^[1] rogue software updates, hacked software websites and similar. As soon as Java NotDharma virus enters the targeted machine, it encrypts files using AES^[2] cryptography.

Java NotDharma malware can lock up a variety of files, including .avi, .html, .gif, .jpg, .7z, .pdf, .txt and many others. For example, a file on your system called video.avi will be turned into video.avi.java. Remember, the file is not damaged, it merely requires a decryption key which is stored on a remote server by hackers.

The ransom note states the following:

All of your files are encrypted, to decrypt them write us to email: ffgghtdfg@cock.li 

The exact amount of ransom is probably provided via e-mail. Typically, it ranges from $300 to $1500 in Bitcoin. Nevertheless, regardless what the size of the demanded payment is, it is not recommended contacting cybercrooks. They might outright ignore you or send you a malicious file that can read all your keystrokes.

Security experts from virusai.lt^[3] advise users to ignore hackers and never to contact them. Instead, Java NotDharma removal is recommended. Right after that, users can proceed with file recovery procedure which we described below this article.

Ransomware distribution methods

Cybercriminals typically rely on spam emails to deliver their malicious payload to multiple computers. It is well-known tactic and is often used to infect hundreds or even thousands of computers. Then, malware can spread further within networks.

To avoid contamination, we advise users to be extremely careful when opening emails from unknown sources. The email provider typically has built-in file scanners. Thus, suspicious emails are usually scanned and flagged up. Do not ignore these warnings! Never open an email and execute the attachment, especially if it is asking to enable macro function.

Additionally, we advise avoiding suspicious websites, such as porn, free online gaming, online dating, gambling, cracked software and other sites. These domains are usually less protected and are not safe to use.

Eliminate Java NotDharma ransomware from your computer and attempt file recovery

Unfortunately, the only secure way to redeem your files is by recovering them from an external drive or a remote server, such as cloud. If you do not have a backup, we provide the list of alternative programs you can use to attempt data recovery. But first, you need to remove Java NotDharma virus from your PC completely.

Manual Java NotDharma ransomware removal is hardly possible and is very complicated. Therefore, you should trust this operation to a powerful security tool. As we already mentioned, the virus might prevent a normal startup of the program. Thus, reboot your PC in Safe Mode with Networking, as explained below.