How to remove GMAN ransomware

GMAN ransomware is a cryptovirus that belongs to a newly reappeared Matrix family

GMAN ransomware is a dangerous crypto malware that uses AES and RSA data encryption methods to make your files useless. This double encryption method has been used by the predecessor of this virus – Matrix ransomware which has been known since November 2016 and, unfortunately, remains active. After this malicious file-locking process is finished, ransomware marks encoded files with .GMAN file extension. This threat can encrypt files of any format, including photos, videos, documents, databases or archives. The main goal of the cyber threat is to make the attack as serious as possible, meaning that it works on damaging all extra copies of encrypted files to make sure that the victim pays the ransom. According to ransomware developers, the only solution for you is to pay the demanded ransom and follow the provided directions. However, paying the ransom can leave you with nothing as there is no guarantee that the cybercriminals won't disappear after they receive your payment.

GMAN ransomware virus is one of the most dangerous in the cyber world because it belongs to the Matrix family and uses both symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms. This method is used to lock your data and make it unusable. The encryption procedure is started immediately after infiltration when the virus spreads around the system to consolidate itself.^[1] Right after that, malware drops a ransom note which is called either !README_GMAN!.rtf or #README_GMAN#.rtf and displayed on every folder that contains encoded files.

This file contains the ransom message that states the following:

Files are not broken!!!

Files were encrypted with AES-128+RSA-2048 crypto algorithms.

There is no way to decrypt your files without unique decryption key and special software. Your unique decryption key is securely stored on our server. For our safety all information about your server and your decryption key fill be automaticaly DELETED AFTER 7 DAYS! You will irrevocably lose all your data!

*Please note that all the attempts to recover your files by yourself or using third party tools will result only in irrevocable loss of your data!

*Please note that you can recover files only with your unique decryption key, which stored on our side. If you will use the help of third parties, you will only add a middleman.

The main goal of Matrix GMAN ransomware developers is to extort cryptocurrency.^[2] Cybercriminals behind this threat have also been instructing users on how to buy this cryptocurrency and send the money to them. However, we would like to warn you that this is not the only option if you had your files encrypted. You shouldn't contact virus developers in any way. 

The best way to restore your data is to remove GMAN ransomware first and then replace encrypted files with the safe ones from the external device or backup. If you don't have extra copies, Many researchers^[3] advise creating backups on a few different services and external devices.

GMAN ransomware removal can be performed using anti-malware tools like FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. You should note that reputable tools can scan your system fully and detect various malware on the device. Tools that are designed to remove malicious program can also clean your system by eliminating additional PUPs or different unwanted files.

Most common way to distribute ransomware – email spam

The ransomware infection usually starts with the safe-looking file attachment that comes from spam emails. These email campaigns are the most common method used for spreading cyber threats. A few features that help identify such emails:

• Suspicious links are added to an email;
• File attachment is in a common format like .doc, .PDF, .docx;
• Email claims to be from a company you are not familiar with;
• Subject line says “invoice,” “report” or simply indicates that the message itself contains some useful information.

When you download the file on the system and open it, malicious ransomware payload installs on the device and infection starts. You can avoid being affected by malicious code if you pay more attention which emails are safe and which are not. You can try scanning the file before you open it on the system or clean the email box mere frequently.

Get rid of GMAN ransomware and then try to restore data 

To remove GMAN ransomware from the computer, you should employ a reputable anti-malware program like FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. These tools can scan your system and detect any malware, additional programs or infected files. Ransomware, in general, can be persistent and change registry keys to make sure that it is immune to removal procedures you decided to try.

GMAN ransomware removal requires anti-malware tools, especially if you want to use the device again and try to recover your files. The best solution for this procedure is relying on file backups. If you have none of those, there are a few data recovery methods listed down below.