How to remove GandCrab 5.0.9 ransomware

GandCrab 5.0.9 ransomware – a file locking malware that blackmails users into paying ransom in return for a decryptor

GandCrab 5.0.9 ransomware is the newest addition to the GandCrab 5 version. The virus was spotted^[1] in early December, infecting users all over the world with the help of spam emails, exploits, unprotected RDPs, and similar methods.

Once inside the system, the ransomware virus opens a message box, swaps the desktop wallpaper, detects all personal files, and adds an extension of six random characters, although this parameter can vary. For example, a sample.jpg will be turned into sample.jpg.spsjhw once the encryption process (completed with the help of Salsa20 and RSA-2048) is complete.

Additionally, the malware drops ransom note [random_extension]-Decrypt.txt or [random_extension]-Decrypt.html, where users can see all the information that is needed in order to allegedly recover access to their pictures, music, videos, documents, and other files. Ransomware authors usually ask for a large amount of money in Bitcoin or Dash cryptocurrency, although paying crooks is highly discouraged.

It is highly likely that GandCrab 5.0.9 ransomware is still using Adobe Flash Player (CVE-2018-4878)^[2] and Windows VBScript (CVE-2018-8174) vulnerabilities to propagate its payload. Therefore, it is vital to update your system on time, especially if you are using Adobe Flash Player (experts^[3] do not recommend using it due to security holes).

As soon as the malicious code is executed, the infection opens the pop-up wind that says:

We will become back very soon! 😉

It is clear that perpetrators are not native speakers, as this malware is mainly used as Ransomware as a service so that anybody can buy it on the black market. Nevertheless, the code of the virus is continually improved, making GandCrab 5.0.9 ransomware removal, not an easy task. However, please refer to the last section of this article for the detailed guide.

Once victims read the ransom note, they are prompted to download and install the TOR browser. This method is used because the TOR project allows crooks to remain anonymous, which is vital when it comes to criminal activity like blackmailing.

To enter further details, users have to upload their ransom note (this functionality was not present in most of the previous versions). Users have a preset amount of time before the sum of the ransom doubles. Those who agree to pay the demanded price in Bitcoin or Dash are promised to receive the decryptor.

However, we highly discourage you from contacting cyber criminals because they might scam you and not send the decryptor. Instead, remove ransomware with the help of anti-virus software like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes and then complete a system tune-up with the FortectIntego tool to ensure a stable working environment.

Beware of phishing emails – malicious attachments can result in ransomware infection

Spam emails are more than just a nuisance, as casually opening attachments or clicking on links inside might execute the malicious payload of ransomware virus. For that reason, you should learn how to recognize phishing emails and use extreme caution. Hackers employ bots that distribute thousands of such messages in the hopes of infecting as many systems as possible. 

Besides spam emails, crooks also use the following ransomware propagation methods:

• Exploit kits (Fallout, Grandsoft, Rig);
• Backdoors;
• Brute-force attacks;
• Fake updates;
• Etc.

To prevent infiltration, always update your system on time, employ reputable security software, avoid dubious websites (torrent, porn, gambling, etc.), and use strong passwords for all your accounts. Additionally, always back up your files just in case.

GandCrab 5.0.9 virus removal instructions

To remove this hazardous malware, you will have to use powerful security software that detects the virus. We suggest using SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. To stop certain features of the virus, we suggest you enter Safe mode with networking as explained below and then perform a full system scan. Do not try to complete manual GandCrab 5.0.9 ransomware removal, as it is too complicated of a task for a regular user.

Once you get rid of the hazardous malware, you should perform system diagnostics with the FortectIntego tool. Only then can you recover your files safely using backups that you kept of a virtual server or a flash drive/external HDD. If you did not prepare any, do not panic, as you can try third-party recovery tools or wait till security experts create a decryption tool.