Nemesis ransomware / virus (Improved Guide) - 2019 update

What is Nemesis ransomware virus?

Nemesis Ransomware demands 10 Bitcoins for the questionable decryption software

Nemesis ransomware is a crypto-malware that encrypts files with AES-256 cipher. Following data encryption, it delivers a ransom note called “### DECRYPT MY FILES ###.html” and changes the desktop. In order to get back access to their records, victims are asked to contact cyber criminals via provided email address and pay the ransom.

Originally, the virus appends .v8dp file extension. However, Nemesis virus might also lock files with one of these appendixes:

• .id-victim’s ID_[TOR website URL].63vc4,
• .l454t,
• .id_[victim’s ID]_[webmafia@asia.com].t5019,
• .id_[victim’s ID]_[Blacklagoon@aolonline.top].nemesis,
• .id_[victim’s ID]_[pizdoglaz@asia.com].t5019,

When all files are encrypted, malware downloads a ransom note in each of the folders that include corrupted files. Crooks claim that there’s no other chance to recover data but to obtain the Nemesis decryptor. The size of the ransom might vary. However, in most cases, it is around 10 Bitcoins which is a lot. We do not suggest you transfer the money as the felons do not give any guarantees that the data will be returned ^[1].

Nemesis virus is compared with infamous Cerber ransomware. However, some researchers assume that it can also belong to the same hackers who have been continuously terrorizing the virtual community with @india.com-named viruses. However, they haven't released any announcement yet.

Greek mythology remains a popular theme among hackers. One of the recent malware – Erebus ransomware – also made its appearance on the web this month^[2]. One of the reasons explaining such success of these threats is the employment of AES encryption code. Likewise, the creators of Nemesis ransomware stuck to the same method and used AES-256 to encrypt users' files. Due to it, the encrypted data cannot be recovered without a proper decryption key.

Fortunately, security researchers have been working hard to help people avoid making these payments to cyber criminals by releasing legitimate decrypters^[3]. We should expect to see Nemesis decrypter in the nearest future.

Despite how menacing each of these ransomware viruses looks, you still have a hope to get your files back. First of all, you need to remove Nemesis from your computer and then proceed to the decryption steps. Start its removal right away with the help of FortectIntego.

If you cannot install or update security software, you should check Nemesis removal instructions below. We will help you to disable the virus and run it automatically with the help of reputable security software.

Authors of the Nemesis ransomware claim that the only way to recover files is to purchase Nemesis decryptor.

Ransomware has been updated one more time on July 2017

At the end of July, security researchers discovered a brand new variant of Nemesis. It is called as CryptOn and append .id_[victim’s ID]_[pizdoglaz@asia.com].t5019. However, any other significant changes were not detected yet.

This crypto-malware continues spreading using the same distribution tactics. After the infiltration, it delivers the same ransom note with detailed instructions how to obtain Nemesis decryptor. However, victims have to contact crooks via pizdoglaz@asia.com email first.

Undoubtedly, you should not follow these instructions and do not pay the ransom. No one can assure that crooks actually have working decryption software or are willing to give it to you. Keep in mind that having business with cyber criminals may not end up good. Thus, just remove CryptOn or other variants of Nemesis and look up for alternative data recovery options.

Distribution strategies used by the authors of the ransomware

This type of virtual threat usually spreads via two types of channels: spam emails or trojans ^[4]. The former has remained a popular technique throughout these past years. Though IT experts continuously warn users to remain cautious, users still fall for the bait.

Well-known malware even disguised in the fake emails sent from the Office of Personnel Management as a result of 2014 data breach incident ^[5]. However, whether it is an official email from a tax institution or police, do not rush to open the attached documents. Otherwise, you might activate Nemesis hijack.

Besides, you should be careful of trojanized ransomware and exploit kits which also deliver crypto-viruses. They usually dwell in compromised file-sharing domains. In order to lower the risk of infection, install a reputable anti-spyware program to deal with the infection.

Terminate Nemesis ransomware from the system

If you are searching for a reliable way to remove Nemesis ransomware virus. Install FortectIntego or Malwarebytes to scan the device. Keep in mind that either of these programs needs to be updated in order for it detects all components of the malware. After that, you may start the file decryption procedure.

More information about Nemesis removal is provided below the instructions. Since there is too little information about this malware yet, it is likely that it might cease the effective performance of the device. In that case, read the below instructions. After the virus is removed, restart the system and re-scan the PC. You can now advance to the file-recovery procedure.