How to remove Horsuke ransomware

Horsuke – a new version of Scarab ransomware infection

Horsuke (also known as Scarab-Horsia) is a ransomware^[1] type virus which is designed to infiltrate the system, encrypt files and force people into paying for the decryption. The virus is a new version of Scarab and uses “.horsuke@nuke.africa” extension for encrypted data. Once compromised, files instantly become unusable. After the virus has encrypted data that was found on the infected computer, Horsuke creates a text file “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT.” This message is spread in copies all over the computer and the virus often changes users' desktop picture for the ransom message. The generated text file contains a message informing users that the system is infected and files are now encrypted “due to a security problem with our PC.” Horsuke virus developers encourage to contact them if a victim wants to purchase the decryption key for blocked files. The preferred payment method is Bitcoin and cybercriminals in the file have provided information on how to get this currency and where.

Unfortunately, the information on the file about needing to pay for decryption of data is true. In order to restore the encrypted data, cybercrooks need to generate individual and unique keys for each of the victim. The biggest problem is that malicious cybercriminals control those keys, and victims are forced to pay a ransom in order to get them.

The specific price of the file decryption key is not specified in the message, but it is stated that the amount of bitcoin needed depends on how fast the victim contacts the criminal. However, it is known that there is a typical $500-1500 amount of any cryptocurrency,^[2] ransomware developers ask for. Developers of crypto-malware detail allow the victim to send three files for free decryption, even before paying them.

Although, Horsuke ransomware stated that those files must be less than 10 MB and not archived. There are other specific details about the information these files can or can not contain. Developers could possibly restore those files you sent, but any cybercriminals should not be trusted. These persons could ignore victims after payment. So, files remain encrypted and Horsuke removal is still needed.

For this reason, we recommend not to trust any people like these and instead remove Horsuke from the computer. You can get rid of it by purchasing certified tools for malware removal like FortectIntego. Another piece of advice would be to take care of your data in advance. We suggest purchasing a USB drive or creating an iCloud^[3] server where you will be able to keep all valuable documents.

EnyBeny – another version of Horsuke ransomware

It appears that the infamous Horsuke ransomware has another version also. This cryptolocker is called EnyBeny virus. The ransomware operates in the same way as other of its kind. Once installed, it creates dubious registry entries, performs the encryption process by using unique encryption algorithms, and adds the .Horsuke!Demonstration of attack video appendix to each blocked file such as image, video, database, text, word document, etc.

To inform their victims about the secret encryption, cybercriminals might display this kind of message:

#######ENYBENY HORSUKE#######Great! You a member #Enybeny community, and all files have been encrypted!Encryption – reversible modification,created for protect all your filesYou can buy decryptor – price 0.00000001 BTCFor decrypt contact with:

$861e4c69-ec77-43fa-8f06-f51bb64d21a1

——-BEGIN ENYBENY KEY——

——-BEGIN ENYBENY KEY——34407735664d4565735456767673714e5a44513866385926776e4f5e386d626e202d2048415055425753202d20484150554257532d5043——-END ENYBENY KEY——

——-END ENYBENY KEY——

——BEGIN ENYBENY KEY——-

 

As you can see the crooks demand Bitcoin in exchange for the decryption tool. However, you should not put any trust in these promises as they might appear to be faked. If you spotted EnyBeny ransomware on your computer, note that it also needs to be removed as soon as possible before any damage occurs.

Five most common ransomware distribution ways

There are various ways for malware such as ransomware viruses to spread around the system. However, there are five most common ones:

• trojans – a virus that creates an entrance for other malicious users' access to your system;
• fake tools for software updates;
• spam emails containing infected attachments;^[4]
• peer-to-peer networking;^[5]
• unofficial software sources.

The key to computer safety is caution, so these infections happen because of reckless users’ behavior and lack of knowledge. If you want to prevent ransomware infections, you need to be very careful while browsing the internet. Always keep installed applications updated in time and do not believe every updater ad. Furthermore, SenzaVirus.it specialists^[6] suggest to always choose certified and knowledgeable software providers.

Horsuke removal requires extreme caution and professional knowledge

In order to remove Horsuke, you need to obtain a reputable malware removal tool like FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. Please, do not try to eliminate ransomware-related components manually. This may lead to irreparable damage to the system. Anti-malware programs are specially created to deal with various cyber threats that might occur along the way. Although the elimination process might take a while, it is definitely worth the wait.

Ransomware might install numerous files and programs or affect legitimate system processes. So, fixing the damage is a complicated job. For this reason, it's better to dedicate Horsuke removal for a reputable security program. Moreover, after the process is completed, make sure that you refresh the entire computer system to ensure that the infection was properly disabled and has vanished for good.