Banhu ransomware is a threat that stems from Phobos cryptovirus family
Banhu ransomware is a malicious program designed to encrypt all personal data on the computer and then demand ransom for its return. Once inside the system, it encrypts all personal pictures, videos, documents, archives, and other files by using a strong encryption algorithm,[1] which also appends a .banhu extension in the process. Victims can no longer access these files, and criminals require payment for the unique key which is needed for the recovery of files.
Once the encryption is complete, Banhu ransomware virus drops a ransom note info.txt and info.hta instructions for further actions. These files explain to victims what happened to their files and claim that the only method to return them is by paying a ransom for a decryption tool. For negotiation purposes, crooks also provide contact – gooddecrypt@airmail.cc, @gooddecrypt Telegram.
Banhu ransomware is a cryptovirus that belongs to a malware family known as Phobos. Such type of malware encrypts all the important files on a Windows computer that you commonly use. Other data in system folders get affected differently, so you cannot use the machine properly. Cybercriminals explain that the only way to recover data is by paying ransom in Bitcoin, but it is not recommended. Experts[2] recommend removing the virus instead. Then you can try to recover data using backups.
| Name | Banhu ransomware |
|---|---|
| Type | Ransomware, file locking virus |
| Malware family | Phobos |
| Extension | Files appended with a full .[gooddecrypt@airmail.cc].banhu extension that also includes victims' ID at the beginning. The lengthy appendix appears on every affected file |
| Ransom note | Info.txt and info.hta |
| Distribution | File attachments form emails and malicious sites spread the payload of ransomware |
| Contact | gooddecrypt@airmail.cc, @gooddecrypt Telegram. |
| File recovery | If no backups are available, recovering data is almost impossible. There is no decryption tool for this virus. Nonetheless, we suggest you try the alternative methods that could help you in some cases – we list them below |
| Malware removal | Perform a full system scan with powerful security software to remove Banhu ransomware |
| System fix | Malware can seriously tamper with Windows systems, causing errors, and other stability issues after it is terminated. We recommend scanning it with the FortectIntego tool for damage fix |
Once inside, Banhu ransomware uses an encryption algorithm to lock up all documents, archives, videos, music, and other files, adding .banhu extension to them. This is the indication that the machine is infected and needs proper recovery of the functions.
According to Banhu virus authors, victims need to contact them to get their personal ID. Once that is done, users should receive further instructions to proceed with the payment, provided in bitcoin cryptocurrency. Nonetheless, we do not recommend contacting the attackers because they might not deliver the required decryption tool.
None of the previous versions in this Phobos family got decrypted yet. This is the newest version that came out at the end of 2020, but there are tons of them out there and possibly still active like .google, 1500dollars, MONETA, HOTEL. Do not panic and do not consider the payment as an option.
Check out the alternative methods we provide below instead and remove Banhu ransomware from the machine using tools like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes that are designed to clear infections and malware. Only then your device can get recovered and data restored.
Ransomware is a type of virus that is classified as a cryptocurrency extortion-based virus. These threats are known for accessing user machines without permission and encrypting all files on them. This way, cybercriminals behind the attack can ask for a ransom payment in return for a unique key.
In the ransom note, the attackers write that they are willing to provide the decryption tool for a particular sum of money, to be paid in Bitcoin cryptocurrency. They also provide further instructions:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail gooddecrypt@airmail.cc
Write this ID in the title of your message 1E857D00-2422
Our operator is available in the messenger Telegram: @gooddecrypt
DO NOT GIVE THIS EMAUL TO 3RD PARTIES
To write to us use the mail gmail.com, if you use other mails, your messages may not be received due to spam.
in your message indicate:
1. your country
2. ip address of your server
3. volume of encrypted information in gigabytes
4. number of infected servers
5. send us 1-2 files
the total size of files must be less than 4Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click 'Buy bitcoins', and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
Banhu file virus decryption is not the same as removing the ransomware
Even though the creators of the Banhu virus try to convince people that transferring cryptocurrency is the only solution, you should ignore those scary messages and make sure to recover the machine after the attack. There are particular parts of the system that malware affects directly, but other issues regarding the infection can be found deep inside the OS.
Banhu ransomware removal is required and can be achieved with security tools that detect[3] this intruder and can properly eliminate any associated files. However, additional issues triggered on your device and affecting performance, programs, functions require applications like FortectIntego. These tools can find and fix issues with system functionality. Only then you can follow with data recovery and system restoring procedures.
Remember that Banhu file virus can affect various parts of the OS to ensure the persistence and difficult file recovery procedures. You should rely on security tools and remove the virus properly. Double-check before going for any data recovery options or adding a data backup device to the PC.
You need to have a virus-free machine before you can go for any file restoring options. Otherwise, you risk getting your files encrypted again or damaged permanently.
Banhu ransomware virus removal procedure includes PC repair
The procedure that allows this virus to come to your device is difficult but silent and dangerous. The threat is also complicated to terminate because virus creators run additional processes, so the user cannot easily remove Banhu ransomware themselves. This is why researchers recommend using SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes for the main job.
Banhu ransomware removal is not easy as it is not easy to recover files after the virus interference. You need to rely on security tools and proper anti-malware programs that can eliminate this or any additional cyber threats affecting your time on the PC. Running a FortectIntego or similar applications helps delete the remaining damage and fix file damage in system folders. Then you can rely on data backups or third-party options and recover encoded files.
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