How to remove ETH ransomware

ETH ransomware is crypto malware has been recognized by multiple AV engines

ETH ransomware is a file locking virus and a variant of the broad Dharma virus family. While the original malware was first released into the wild back in November 2016, it was updated dozens of times through the years, and so far has been particularly active in 2019, coming out with such versions as .adobe or .USA. Once installed, ETH virus looks for data to encrypt, namely for databases, documents, pictures, videos, misc, etc. It then uses a sophisticated encryption algorithm^[1] (AES or DES) to mark files with .ETH extension, which prevents victims from opening them. Additionally, malware drops a ransom note FILES ENCRYPTED.txt, where hackers ask users to pay ransom in Bitcoin and contact them via the helpfilerestore@india.com email address. While .eth file virus is not decryptable, contacting cybercriminals is not recommended.

ETH ransomware can be spread with the help of various methods, including spam email attachments, exploit kits, unprotected RDP configuration, brute-force attacks, etc. Additionally, the virus often relies on fake updates such as Adobe, Windows, or other popular names. Please refer to the second part of the blog to establish methods of avoiding ETH virus, along with other similar threats.

Once executed, the malicious payload of ETH ransomware populates the system and performs various modifications, such as the launching of numerous processes, deleting shadow volume copies, modifying windows registry, infecting executable files, creating the main executable in the system32 directory, etc.

After system modification is complete, malware encrypts every personal file as follows: .ID-[random].[helpfilerestore@india.com].eth. For example, a file picture.jpg is renamed into picture.jpg.ID-6R471FS8[helpfilerestore@india.com].eth and becomes unusable. To recover the access, users are prompted to contact cybercriminals, which experts^[2] never recommend doing. Instead, users should remove ETH ransomware with the help of security application and then use alternative methods to recover personal files.

The ransom note FILES ENCRYPTED.txt states the following:

all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
write email helpfilerestore@india.com

In addition, ETH ransomware opens a pop-up file with an extended message, providing more detailed instructions on what victims should do next. Crooks also offer free trial decryption of one file of 1MB or less – this is done to make users believe that once the ransom is paid, they will be guaranteed to get the key back. However, these people should not be trusted and can easily scam victims.

When completed with the elimination of malware, you can then use backups to restore files. If you had none prepared – things will be a little more complicated. However, you can try third-party software that may be able to recover data marked with .eth extension. Additionally, you should scan your machine with FortectIntego to fix system files and restore normal functions.

Use these precaution measures to avoid ransomware infection

Most users are quite careless when it comes to cybersecurity, so they are caught off guard when infected. For that reason, most ransomware victims are desperate while trying to look for methods of file recovery, as they did not prepare any backups. Thus, while security measures can reduce the chance of malware encrypting data in the first place, backups will save you from ransomware damage entirely. 

To avoid ransomware viruses, you should follow this advice:

• Install comprehensive security software and keep it updated;
• Patch your OS and software as soon as security updates are released;
• Beware of fake updates;
• Do not casually open email attachments or links that come from an unknown source;
• Use ad-block;
• Protect your RDP with a strong password;
• Avoid websites that might host malware, such as file-sharing or torrent sites;
• Do not click on suspicious pop-ups or explore sites you get randomly redirected to;
• Carefully install new software – pick Advanced installation settings.

Delete ETH ransomware and then try to get your files back

The most relevant question for most users while searching for the information online after ETH virus infection is “can I recover my files?” Well, if you had backups, you will be able to get all your data back. If not, the chances of regaining access to personal data are quite slim. However, under certain conditions, specific software or Windows Previous Versions feature might be able to help. You will find all the instructions and download links below.

Before you proceed with file recovery, however, you need to remove ETH ransomware, otherwise, all the recovered data will be encrypted repeatedly. To do that, you should enter Safe Mode with Networking and perform a full system scan with the help of reputable security software. In case ETH ransomware removal fails with your chosen application, make use of one that can recognize the threat, such as MalwarebytesMalwarebytes.^[3]