Nefilim ransomware: what it is and how to remove it
Nefilim ransomware is a data locker that uses extortion tactics in order to make you hand over the money to cybercriminals. Just like most other ransomware, this virus locks all personal files with the help of the RSA + AES encryption algorithm and then demands a ransom payment in Bitcoin cryptocurrency.
Facts checked October 7, 2026. Removal steps tested on Windows 11 (26H2) and checked against Microsoft's and the browser makers' current documentation. Sections marked as our earlier report are the original text: they describe the threat as it was then and have not been reviewed since. The 2026 status, the removal steps and the questions are current.
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Nefilim ransomware: summary
| Name | Nefilim |
|---|---|
| Type | Ransomware, file locking virus |
| Encryption method | All local and networked files are encrypted with AES-128 + RSA-2048 cipher |
| A successor to | Nemty ransomware |
| File extension | All non-system and non-executable files are appended with .NEFILIM extension, e.g., a "picture.jpg" is turned into "picture.jpg.NEFILIM". Another version of the ransomware uses .OFFWHITE! extension for encrypted data |
| Ransom note | NEFILIM-DECRYPT.txt; the text is quoted in full below |
| Removal | Scan the PC with security software to find and remove the malware and anything installed with it. Fortect scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. Remove it nowTo use the full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Fortect. The scan is free. |
Show 17 more facts
| Contact | jamesgonzaleswork1972@protonmail.com, pretty_hardjob2881@mail.com or dprworkjessiaeye1955@tutanota.com, SamanthaKirbinron@protonmail.com, DenisUfliknam@protonmail.com, RobertGorgris@protonmail.com |
|---|---|
| Main executable | The file is signed by Sectigo RSA Code Signing CA |
| Demands | Cybercriminals threaten to publicly disclose all the encrypted files, which can be devastating for any business |
| Data recovery | As Nefilim ransomware is the newest version of Nemty, no decryption tool has yet been developed. Other methods include using third-party recovery software or built-in Windows tool to attempt to retrieve at least |
| Malware removal | Use reputable anti-malware software to scan your machine (access Safe Mode if required – we provide the instructions below) |
| Detection names | No Microsoft detection name is known |
| Encrypted file extension | .nefilim |
| Decryptor | No free decryptor is known for this variant; check No More Ransom (nomoreransom.org) for updates |
| Distribution | Not recorded in the old report |
| Damage | Not recorded in the old report |
| Symptoms | Files renamed with a new extension and a ransom note left in folders |
| Evidence | 5 write-ups by security sites; no sample analysed yet |
| Encrypted files | .nefilim |
| Attacker contacts | jamesgonzaleswork1972@protonmail.com |
| Free decryptor | No free decryptor is known (checked 7 October 2026) |
| First seen | 5 May 2020 |
| Facts checked | 7 October 2026 |
- File extension:
.nefilim - Note file:
NEFILIM-DECRYPT.txt - Contact:
jamesgonzaleswork1972@protonmail.com
From our report of May 2020 · not reviewed since
More from our earlier report on Nefilim
- Ransom note gets dropped into most folders located on the system, as well as the desktop
- If your computer seems to be unstable after you terminate the virus, you make use of in order to fix the damage done and recover the normal operation of the device
How Nefilim ransomware behaves
From our report of May 2020 · not reviewed since
Nefilim ransomware - a file locking malware that threatens to publish the data publicly
Nefilim ransomware is a data locker that uses extortion tactics in order to make you hand over the money to cybercriminals.
Just like most other ransomware, this virus locks all personal files with the help of the RSA + AES encryption algorithm and then demands a ransom payment in Bitcoin cryptocurrency. Each of such encrypted files receives a .NEFILIM extension and can no longer be accessed without the generated key that is stored on cybercriminals' C&C server.
Additionally, the Nefilim virus also drops a ransom note NEFILIM-DECRYPT.txt, which explains what happened to the infected computer. In this note, crooks explain that they keep copies of all files on their servers. In case the ransom will not be paid within seven days, the data will be leaked and exposed online. This is a new tactic that increases the chances of a successful endeavor for cybercriminals.
For communication purposes, malicious actors ask victims to contact them via one of the following e-mails:
- jamesgonzaleswork1972@protonmail.com
- pretty_hardjob2881@mail.com
- dprworkjessiaeye1955@tutanota.com
According to Nefilim ransomware developers, as soon as users send the email, they will be provided a proof cybercriminals indeed have copies of files.
Nefilim is a re-branded name of an already known strain - Nemty ransomware/Nemty Revenge 2.0, which mostly targeted high profile organizations and businesses, although regular users can be affected as well.
It is yet unknown why the cybercriminal group decided to change the name, but they are using a similar pattern for file encryption and naming of the ransom note. Nevertheless, it is highly likely that malicious actors behind Nefilim ransomware changed the name due to a new scheme that they operate now
As of now, there are several tools that you could use for Nefilim ransomware removal, as over 40 engines detect the virus as follows:
Therefore, employ a sophisticated anti-malware software and perform a full system scan to remove Nefilim ransomware from your machine. Additionally, if your computer seems to lag, crash or suffer from similar stability issues after you get rid of malware, we suggest you repair it with .
- Win32:Malware-gen
- Ransom.NEFILIM!1.C3E7 (CLOUD)
- Ransom.Nefilim
- Win32/Filecoder.Nemty.D
- Mal/Generic-S
- Trojan-Ransom.Win32.JSWorm.d
From our report of May 2020 · not reviewed since
Nefilim ransomware operation and data encryption
Nefilim ransomware authors are known to be sophisticated individuals who put their knowledge in coding for malicious deeds.
The malware is spread by utilizing various exploits (RIG and Radio), fake websites, weakly protected RDP connections, as well as other methods - using several different attack vectors increases the chances of users being infected.
Security researchers previously noticed already that Nefilim virus' previous versions - Nemty - strangely used various clues hidden inside its code. For example, several references to experts were previously found within the written code - the version now mentions SophosLabs and AhnLab in a particularly vulgar way.
Another interesting feature of Nefilim ransomware is that the main executable used to infect the machine is signed by a valid certificate, which allows cybercriminals to prevent Windows from showing a warning about the file being potentially unsafe - this is another trick to avoid users from being suspicious during the initial infiltration process.
Once inside the system, Nefilim ransomware will implement the necessary changes to ensure that the encryption process would be successful. The virus performs the following:
Once the necessary changes are complete, Nefilim ransomware begins the file encryption process, turning all normal data into inaccessible once - it targets the msot commonly-used files such as .jpg, .dat, .xlsx, gif, .pdf, and others, and appends each of them with .NEFILIM marker.
After that, malware drops the following ransom note:
As evident, crooks behind Nefilim ransomware are threatening to release the stolen data to the public, which can ultimately compromise any organization or business. However, this increases the chances of ransom payment to be made. If you decide to pay, keep in mind that hackers might never send you the required Nefilim ransomware decryptor, so you may up losing all your money, and they might still publish your data regardless.
Instead, we suggest you recover your data from backups and ensure that no future infections happen. For that, check the tips provided in the following section. Note that, if you did not have backups or they got encryption, you should copy all .Nefilim files over before trying to apply third-party software or using other methods.
- Exits if the keyboard language is set to one of the following: Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, and Moldova;
- Deletes all Shadow Volume Copies to prevent recovery;
- If available, it accesses backups and removes them;
- Gathers sensitive information about the company or the computer user;
- Modifies the Windows registry for persistence, etc.
The Nefilim ransomware note
All of your files have been encrypted with military grade algorithms.
We ensure that the only way to retrieve your data is with our software.
We will make sure you retrieve your data swiftly and securely when our demands are met.
Restoration of your data requires a private key which only we possess.
A large amount of your private files have been extracted and is kept in a secure location.
If you do not contact us in seven working days of the breach we will start leaking the data.
After you contact us we will provide you proof that your files have been extracted.
To confirm that our decryption software works email to us 2 files from random computers.
You will receive further instructions after you send us the test files.
jamesgonzaleswork1972@protonmail.com
pretty_hardjob2881@mail.com
dprworkjessiaeye1955@tutanota.com
How to remove Nefilim ransomware
Tools you'll need
All of these are free except where noted. Download them on a clean device if the infected PC is offline.
- A USB stick: to keep the ransom note, two or three encrypted files and screenshots off the infected PC.
- Microsoft Defender Offline: built into Windows 11 and Windows 10; scans before Windows starts, so running malware cannot hide.
- Microsoft Safety Scanner: a second, portable scanner with current signatures; each download works for 10 days.
- ID Ransomware: identifies the family from the note and one encrypted file and says whether a decryptor exists.
- No More Ransom: the free decryptors from police and security companies; check it again every few months.
- Fortect (optional): scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. The free scan is in the box above.
How to remove Nefilim and get your files back
Work in this order.
Disconnecting comes first, removal comes before any restore, and nothing here asks you to contact the attackers.
Step 1: Disconnect the PC and unplug backup drives
Unplug the network cable or turn off Wi-Fi, and disconnect USB drives, external disks and network shares, so Nefilim cannot reach more files. Pause OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox sync, because synced folders upload the encrypted copies over the good ones.
Leave the PC on but offline while you read the next steps, since a restart can let the ransomware run again. This applies to Windows 11 and Windows 10 alike.
Windows 11: turn off Wi-Fi to take the PC offline. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 2: Save the ransom note and confirm the family
Your files now end in
.nefilimand the instructions are inNEFILIM-DECRYPT.txt. Save both to a USB stick, a copy of the note and two small encrypted files, before anything else.On another device, check them with ID Ransomware or Crypto Sheriff: the family name decides which decryptor, if any, can help. Keep the note's ID and contact line for your report.
Windows 11: the ransom note and encrypted files to copy for identification. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 3: Check for a free decryptor
Our last check found that for Nefilim, no free decryptor is known (checked 7 October 2026). Look again yourself in the No More Ransom list and the free decryptor pages of Emsisoft, Avast and Kaspersky, which add new families every year.
A decryptor needs the ransomware gone first, or it encrypts the files again. Keep at least one copy of the encrypted files on an external drive, even if no tool works yet.
Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 4: Remove the ransomware before you restore or decrypt
Removing Nefilim does not bring the files back, but it has to come first. Start with Defender's Full scan, then the offline scan from the same Scan options page, which checks the disk before Windows loads.
If the scan cannot start, use Safe Mode with Networking. Delete the ransom notes only after you have saved a copy, because removal tools sometimes leave them behind on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Windows 11: Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Full procedure with screenshots: Run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan
Step 5: Look for shadow copies of the files
Windows keeps shadow copies for restore points and backups, and some ransomware fails to delete them.
vssadmin list shadowsin an administrator Command Prompt tells you at once whether any exist.If they do, right-click the folder that held your files, open Properties > Previous Versions, select a version from before the attack, and click Open to check it before you Restore or copy the files out. Windows 11 and Windows 10 both have the tab.
Windows 11: vssadmin list shadows shows whether shadow copies exist. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 6: Restore the files from a backup or recover deleted originals
A backup made before the attack is the surest way back. Connect it only once the PC is clean, then restore from File History, Windows Backup, OneDrive's Restore your OneDrive or your own external copies.
Without a backup, try file recovery: the originals that Nefilim deleted may still be on the disk until something overwrites them. Install nothing new on the drive you want to recover from on the Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC.
Full procedure with screenshots: Recover deleted files (Recycle Bin, backups, OneDrive) On uGetFix
Instructions for each browser and system
The detailed steps for every browser and system this guide covers. Open the one you use.
Manual removal using Safe Mode
Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.
Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking
Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment.
Windows 7 / Vista / XP
- Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. - it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Windows 10 / Windows 8
- Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
- Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
- On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
- Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
- Click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Go to Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Press Restart.
- Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes
Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Click on More details.
- Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
- Right-click and select Open file location.
- Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
- Delete the contents of the malicious folder.
Step 3. Check program Startup
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Go to Startup tab.
- Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
Step 4. Delete virus files
Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:
- Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
- Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:
Temporary Internet Files
Downloads
Recycle Bin
Temporary files - Pick Clean up system files.
- You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):
%AppData%
%LocalAppData%
%ProgramData%
%WinDir%
After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.
From our report of May 2020 · not reviewed since
Prevent your computer from being infected with ransomware
Nefilim ransomware developers use Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) scheme in order to propagate the malware and receive profit from it.
As a result, different cybercriminals who take on the task use different methods to infect users and companies worldwide. As mentioned above, various techniques were used, including exploit kits, web injects, drive-by downloads, unprotected Remote Desktop connections, etc.
If you are already infected, there is not much you can do apart from trying to remediate the situation. Nevertheless, you need to ensure that this devastating situation would not happen in the future. For that, you should:
Additionally, it is essential to keep backups separated from your computer and the network it is connected to. In such a case, you could restore all the files without paying cybercriminals, although they might still publish the stolen information online.
- Employ sophisticated anti-malware software and keep it updated;
- Keep all the software and the operating system up to date at all times;
- Use strong passwords to protect your RDP connections and other accounts;
- Disable RDP as soon as it is not needed and use non-default port to establish the connection;
- Do not allow email attachments to run macro function ("Allow content");
- Educate your staff about cybersecurity and safe computer handling practices;
- Enable Firewall and install ad-block on all web browsers;
- Do not download pirated software installers or software cracks.
From our report of May 2020 · not reviewed since
Nefilim ransomware elimination and data recovery
It is important to note that the infection of the computer or the network and data encryption are completely separate procedures, although it is possible to do the latter with the help of the former one only.
Therefore, Nefilim ransomware removal will not retrieve access to your data - you need to use backups instead. If you had no backups, ensure that you make a copy of the encrypted data before you do anything, as further actions may permanently damage the files.
Then you need to remove Nefilim ransomware from the computer and the infected network. To do that, employ reputable anti-malware software and perform a full scan to ensure that all the malicious files are eliminated. If the procedure was unsuccessful, you can access Safe Mode with Networking as explained below and then initiate a scan - we provide the instructions on how to do that below.
Finally, after Nefilim virus elimination, you can attempt data redemption. If you were lucky enough, you could potentially recreate at least some of your files embedded in your hard drive. Note that security researchers created a decryptor for previous ransomware versions so that it might be possible for Nefilim ransomware as well.
[GI=method-1]To get rid of Nefilim file virus, perform a full system scan in Safe Mode with Networking:
[GI=method-2]System Restore can also be used to delete malware from your system:
If you did not use the computer much after the infection occurred, this method might be helpful.
Make use of Windows Previous Versions feature
This feature might help you recover files one-by-one if malware failed to delete Shadow Volume Copies, and you had System Restore enabled.
ShadowExplorer may sometimes get all your files back
This tool may be successful in recovering all data in some cases.
No decryptor is currently available
Report it and recover your files
Report it
Report the attack even if you do not expect the files back: insurers and banks ask for the report number, and police use the contacts in the note to link cases.
- United States
- FBI IC3 · FTC ReportFraud
- United Kingdom
- Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) · NCSC
- Australia
- ReportCyber (ASD)
- EU countries
- Europol: national reporting sites
Give the victim ID, the note and the date the files were encrypted. A business that holds personal data may also have to notify its data protection authority, in the EU within 72 hours.
Make the next attack harmless
Nefilim could only hurt the files that had no second copy, and the signs (files that end in .nefilim and no longer open) showed exactly which ones those were.
The 3-2-1 rule fixes that:
- three copies
- two media
- one disconnected
A practical version for a home PC: OneDrive or another cloud backup with version history, plus an external disk that you plug in once a week for File History and then unplug. Test a restore now and then by opening a few files from the backup on another device.
Details, schedules and what not to back up are in our 3-2-1 backup guide for Windows.
Stream videos without limitations, no matter where you are
There are multiple parties that could find out almost anything about you by checking your online activity.
While this is highly unlikely, advertisers and tech companies are constantly tracking you online. The first step to privacy should be a secure browser that focuses on tracker reduction to a minimum.
Even if you employ a secure browser, you will not be able to access websites that are restricted due to local government laws or other reasons. In other words, you may not be able to stream Disney+ or US-based Netflix in some countries. To bypass these restrictions, you can employ a powerful VPN, which provides dedicated servers for torrenting and streaming, not slowing you down in the process.
Data backups are important - recover your lost files
Ransomware is one of the biggest threats to personal data.
Once it is executed on a machine, it launches a sophisticated encryption algorithm that locks all your files, although it does not destroy them. The most common misconception is that anti-malware software can return files to their previous states. This is not true, however, and data remains locked after the malicious payload is deleted.
While regular data backups are the only secure method to recover your files after a ransomware attack, tools such as can also be effective and restore at least some of your lost data.
Questions about Nefilim ransomware
How do I open .nefilim files?
You cannot open them by renaming or by choosing another program. The .nefilim ending shows that Nefilim encrypted the content, and only the matching key can reverse it. Renaming a file back to .docx or .jpg changes nothing except the icon, and it can confuse a future decryptor, so leave the names as they are.
To get the content back, use a backup, an unencrypted copy elsewhere, or a decryptor listed on No More Ransom if one exists for Nefilim. Store the encrypted files on an external disk until then.
How did Nefilim get on my computer?
The way Nefilim spreads has not been documented yet, so look at your own recent activity. On home PCs, ransomware most often comes with cracked programs, game cheats, key generators and fake updates, or with an e-mail attachment that was opened. On business networks, attackers usually log in through Remote Desktop with a stolen or guessed password.
Think back to what was downloaded or installed in the days before files that end in .nefilim and no longer open, and check the Downloads folder and Installed apps sorted by date. Keep anything suspicious for your report, but do not run it again.
Is there a free Nefilim decryptor?
We last checked on 7 October 2026, and for Nefilim no free decryptor is known. We check No More Ransom, which collects free tools from police and security companies, and the decryptor pages of the major antivirus vendors. A working decryptor exists only when the encryption has a flaw or the keys were leaked or seized.
Ignore sites and videos that offer a "Nefilim decryptor" for download or for a fee: these are usually scams or malware. Real decryptors are free and come from known security companies or law enforcement. Keep the encrypted files in case a tool appears later.
Should I pay the ransom?
We advise against it, and so do the FBI, Europol and national cyber agencies. Payment does not guarantee a working tool: some attackers never reply, some tools damage files, and some variants have no decryptor at all. Paying also funds further attacks and can make you a target again.
Before considering payment, try every recovery option in this guide and report the attack. Companies must involve their legal adviser and insurer, because payments to sanctioned groups can be illegal. If files are truly irreplaceable, store the encrypted copies and wait; decryptors sometimes appear later.
Can a data-recovery company decrypt my files for a fee?
Only if a decryptor already exists or the company pays the attackers for you. Some "ransomware recovery" services advertise that they can decrypt families with no known flaw; in practice they negotiate with the attackers and add their own fee. Others use the same free tools listed on No More Ransom.
Before you hire anyone, ask in writing how they will recover the files, whether they will contact the attackers and what happens if they fail. A legitimate service answers clearly. If a free decryptor exists for your family, you can run it yourself.
Did Nefilim steal my files or passwords?
We do not know yet. Nothing published so far shows data theft by Nefilim, but the only confirmed sign is files that end in .nefilim and no longer open, which says nothing about what happened before. Many current ransomware attacks copy files or run a password stealer first, so it is wise to act as if they did.
From a clean device, change the passwords that were saved in the browsers on this PC, starting with e-mail and banking, sign out of all sessions and turn on two-step verification. Watch bank statements and account activity for the next few weeks.
Is Nefilim the same as other ransomware with a similar name?
Not necessarily. Ransomware names come from the file extension, the note or a word in the code, so unrelated families often end up with similar names, and one family can appear under several names. The difference matters: a decryptor or advice for one family does not fit another and can damage files.
Compare the ending added to your files and the exact name of the note with the summary table at the top of this guide, then upload the note and one encrypted file to ID Ransomware from a clean device. If the result names another family, follow the guide for that family instead.
Can I just remove .nefilim from the file names?
You can try it on a copy, but for real ransomware it will not help. The .nefilim extension is only a label; the file content has been scrambled with a key the attackers hold.
If a renamed copy opens normally, the malware only renamed files, which happens with some fake ransomware, and you can rename the rest back. If it does not open, leave the files as they are. Renaming encrypted files can confuse a decryptor later, so always work on copies.
Should I open NEFILIM-DECRYPT.txt?
Reading it is fine if you open it in Notepad. A plain text NEFILIM-DECRYPT.txt cannot harm the PC. Be careful with notes in HTA or HTML format: double-clicking those runs them in a window that can contain scripts, so right-click and choose Open with > Notepad instead.
The note tells you the contact addresses, the claimed amount and the deadline. Do not visit links or write to the addresses from this PC. Use the note to identify the family and check for a free decryptor first.
Will Fortect remove Nefilim?
Fortect scans Windows for malware and unwanted programs and repairs the system files and settings they change, and its free scan shows what it finds on your PC before you decide anything.
For Nefilim, follow the plan above as well: the browser steps take back permissions and settings that no scanner treats as a threat, and uninstalling the program that brought it removes the source.
Run Microsoft Defender's full scan and, if anything was found, its offline scan as a second opinion. If the symptoms are gone after the plan and both scans are clean, there is nothing more to do.
Sources
- Twitter: Nemty ransomware became "NEFILIM" ransomware... (read October 7, 2026)
- Wikipedi: Windows Registry (read October 7, 2026)
- CISA: StopRansomware (read October 7, 2026)
- No More Ransom (read October 7, 2026)
- FTC: How to recognize, remove and avoid malware (read October 7, 2026)