Outsider ransomware (Virus Removal Guide) - Free Instructions
Outsider virus Removal Guide
What is Outsider ransomware?
Outsider ransomware – malware that uses RSA-1024 cipher to encrypt personal files
Outsider ransomware is a file locking virus that was discovered in December 2018. Upon infiltration, malware scans the machine within a few seconds and encrypts all pictures, videos, audios, documents, and other personal data. It uses a .protected extension, which then prevents victims from opening any of the modified files (picture.jpg turns into picture.jpg.protected). Outsider virus then contacts the Command & Control[1] server controlled by hackers, sends them the personal ID of the victim, and uploads a ransom note to each of the affected folders. HOW_TO_RESTORE_FILES.txt explains to users what happened to their system, as well as explains what they should do next in order to recover access to the personal files. They are asked to acquire $900 in Bitcoin and then email crooks via secureserver@memeware.net.
| Summary | |
| Name | Outsider ransomware |
| Type | File locker |
| Encryption algorithm | RSA |
| Extension | .protected |
| Ransom note | HOW_TO_RESTORE_FILES.txt |
| Ransom size | $900 in BTC |
| Decryptable? | No |
| Removal | Use FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner. or other anti-malware software to eliminate malware from your PC |
Outsider ransomware authors use typical propagation techniques, such as:
- Spam emails;
- Brute-force[2] attacks;
- Exploits and vulnerabilities;
- Fake updates;
- Hacked/malicious websites, etc.
All of these methods are as dangerous as the user allows them to be: using reputable security software and practicing safe browsing habits can ensure that no malware appears on the machine. However, those who are already infected will have to take care of Outsider ransomware removal.
As soon as Outsider ransomware enters the machine, it performs various system modifications: modifies Windows Registry, removes Shadow Volume Copies, executes and runs multiple processes and reads information about the device. From this point, all your files get encoded in a matter of a few seconds and become unusable. Additionally, all the incoming data will be encrypted as well.
It is quite ironic how cybercriminals refer to the whole situation as if it would be some sort of sales deal in the ransom note:
100% Successful restoring all of your files
100% Satisfaction guarantee
100% Safe and secure service
Not only did they infect the machine with malware that can compromise the security even more, but also demand money for file decryption. There is no “service.” It merely is an extortion scheme that users should not engage themselves in. Outsider ransomware cannot be trusted, as they could simply take the money and never bother sending the key back.
For that reason, you need to remove Outsider ransomware from your computer before you do anything else. You should use comprehensive security software, such as FortectIntego or SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, although you can use any other tool that is capable of detecting[3] and eliminating the threat.
You can prevent ransomware infections in most cases
Bad actors use various tricks to infect as many victims as possible. However, users can decrease the infection probability by using precaution measures. Here are most popular ransomware distribution methods and ways to avoid the malware:
- Spam emails. This method remains one of the most used because of how effective it is. Phishing emails are often poorly written, include numerous grammar or spelling mistakes and generally seem fake. However, some criminals come up with believable messages that can confuse even those PC savvy. Therefore, make sure you check the real address of the embedded hyperlink and scan the attachment before opening it;
- Exploit kits. Almost all software has security vulnerabilities that can help hackers to break in and upload the malware. Unfortunately, these security holes can only be patched by software creators (one of the most abused software is Adobe Flash) and are not necessarily discovered before thousands of infections occur. However, patching software on time can prevent criminals from using exploit kits;
- Weak RDP protection. A remote desktop protocol is a useful feature that allows users to take control over their device remotely. Hackers often use brute force attacks when trying to break in via the RDP, and then install malware manually. We suggest users make sure a strong password is used, and the usage of a VPN is also advisable;
- File-sharing and other third-party sites. Bad actors can inject malicious code into a hacked website or create their sites that host malware. The spoofing sites can often be avoided by checking if a secure HTTPS[4] connection is used. Additionally, internet protection tools can be used to prevent malicious code execution in real time, so it is highly recommended. Finally, torrent and shady-looking sites that offer free software or media should also be avoided.
Outsider ransomware elimination steps
There is one crucial thing to look out for after the infection: do not try to recover your files before you remove Outsider ransomware from your PC entirely. Otherwise, all your backed files will get corrupted as well.
To remove Outsider virus safely, enter Safe Mode with Networking, as explained below. Then, use security software like FortectIntego or SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner to thoroughly scan your machine and get rid of malware. Only then attempt to recover your files from a backup.
However, if you did not store any backups before Outsider ransomware attacked your machine, we suggest you try third-party software that may be useful. You can find download links and usage instructions down below.
Getting rid of Outsider virus. Follow these steps
Manual removal using Safe Mode
To remove Outsider ransomware from your PC, enter Safe Mode with Networking the following way:
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.
Remove Outsider using System Restore
You can also try using System Restore feature to disable the virus:
-
Step 1: Reboot your computer to Safe Mode with Command Prompt
Windows 7 / Vista / XP- Click Start → Shutdown → Restart → OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
-
Select Command Prompt from the list
Windows 10 / Windows 8- Press the Power button at the Windows login screen. Now press and hold Shift, which is on your keyboard, and click Restart..
- Now select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings and finally press Restart.
-
Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt in Startup Settings window.
-
Step 2: Restore your system files and settings
-
Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter.
-
Now type rstrui.exe and press Enter again..
-
When a new window shows up, click Next and select your restore point that is prior the infiltration of Outsider. After doing that, click Next.
-
Now click Yes to start system restore.
-
Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter.
Bonus: Recover your data
Guide which is presented above is supposed to help you remove Outsider from your computer. To recover your encrypted files, we recommend using a detailed guide prepared by 2-spyware.com security experts.Outsider ransomware is not decryptable yet. However, do not pay the ransom, as not only you risk losing your money, but also encourage crooks creating more viruses or improving the existing code because of successful operation. Thus, try alternative data recovery methods.
If your files are encrypted by Outsider, you can use several methods to restore them:
Data Recovery Pro can be useful in decrypting files affected by ransomware
While Data Recovery Pro is mainly created for corrupted file restoration, experts noticed that this tool could also be useful when helping ransomware victims.
- Download Data Recovery Pro;
- Follow the steps of Data Recovery Setup and install the program on your computer;
- Launch it and scan your computer for files encrypted by Outsider ransomware;
- Restore them.
You can try out Windows Previous Versions feature
This option is only available to those who had System Restore point set up before the infection occurred.
- Find an encrypted file you need to restore and right-click on it;
- Select “Properties” and go to “Previous versions” tab;
- Here, check each of available copies of the file in “Folder versions”. You should select the version you want to recover and click “Restore”.
ShadowExplorer could recover all your files
In case Outsider ransomware failed to delete Shadow Volume Copies, this application will return all your files to the original state.
- Download Shadow Explorer (http://shadowexplorer.com/);
- Follow a Shadow Explorer Setup Wizard and install this application on your computer;
- Launch the program and go through the drop down menu on the top left corner to select the disk of your encrypted data. Check what folders are there;
- Right-click on the folder you want to restore and select “Export”. You can also select where you want it to be stored.
No decryptor is available yet
Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from Outsider and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes
How to prevent from getting ransomware
Protect your privacy – employ a VPN
There are several ways how to make your online time more private – you can access an incognito tab. However, there is no secret that even in this mode, you are tracked for advertising purposes. There is a way to add an extra layer of protection and create a completely anonymous web browsing practice with the help of Private Internet Access VPN. This software reroutes traffic through different servers, thus leaving your IP address and geolocation in disguise. Besides, it is based on a strict no-log policy, meaning that no data will be recorded, leaked, and available for both first and third parties. The combination of a secure web browser and Private Internet Access VPN will let you browse the Internet without a feeling of being spied or targeted by criminals.
No backups? No problem. Use a data recovery tool
If you wonder how data loss can occur, you should not look any further for answers – human errors, malware attacks, hardware failures, power cuts, natural disasters, or even simple negligence. In some cases, lost files are extremely important, and many straight out panic when such an unfortunate course of events happen. Due to this, you should always ensure that you prepare proper data backups on a regular basis.
If you were caught by surprise and did not have any backups to restore your files from, not everything is lost. Data Recovery Pro is one of the leading file recovery solutions you can find on the market – it is likely to restore even lost emails or data located on an external device.
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- ^ Command-and-control server (C&C server). WhatIs. IT definitions.
- ^ What's a Brute Force Attack?. Kaspersky Labs. Cybersecurity blog.
- ^ 2424a7ce5e885bf460aeb8968ceab48057813430973c5a2e27d846553e79402c. Virus total. File examination site.
- ^ What is HTTPS?. Instant SSL. SSL Certificates.