Rigd virus (Decryption Steps Included) - Free Instructions

Rigd virus Removal Guide

What is Rigd virus?

Rigd virus is the ransomware-type infection that controls various processes to remain persistent

Rigd ransomwareThe threat locks files and marks them with a unique appendix to indicate which data got locked by the virus

Rigd ransomware – the virus that aims to get money from victims, so it starts the attack with file encryption. Using the powerful encryption methods[1] allows the threat to change the original code of the file and make it useless and even unopenable. The virus delivers the _readme.txt file once all the files receive the indicational .rigd appendix. These pictures, documents, audio, or video files become locked, but not fully damaged. It is for blackmail purposes. Hence, criminals claim to offer the decryption tool that should possibly recover affected parts after the payment of $980 gets transferred in the form of Bitcoin. However, not even the discount of $490 should encourage you to pay up. It is not safe to even communicate with these criminals.

It appears that Rigd ransomware encrypts data instantly right after infiltration. The ransom note describes payment instructions by providing necessary links where victims should reach out for further information, contact information, discount offer. If you ever find yourself in such a dilemma, do not hesitate if paying is the best option. It is never the solution, and many experts[2] note that extortionists are not thinking about your belongings. Feel free to use our guide for decrypting the virus, so you can get your files back without paying anything at all. Virus removal is more crucial here, and files are not that important as the system of your device.

Undoubtedly, there are already many types of ransomware infection existing, and ransomware developers use different encryption algorithms and various symmetric and asymmetric key generation mechanisms. However, the text file, the tactics, distribution methods, and the pattern of the file appendix show that this is the Djvu ransomware family member. These criminals have not changed the techniques for a while and the ransom note distributed around is the same for a few years at least. Other more recent versions like Lqqw, Efdc, Koom show that the family is no longer decryptable, unfortunately.

Name Rigd virus
Type Ransomware, file-locker, encryption virus
File extension .rigd
Family Djvu/ STOP ransomware virus
Ransom amount Initially $980, but a discount is available for the first 72 hours that cut the amount to $490 in the form of Bitcoin
Distribution Pirated files, game cracks, cheatcodes, files attached to malicious spam emails
Ransom note _readme.txt
Contact info manager@mailtemp.ch, managerhelper@airmail.cc
Elimination These malicious programs require proper tools like anti-malware, so the detection engine can locate and eliminate all pieces of the malware
Repair The system damage can lead to severe issues, so we recommend running a tool like FortectIntego that can fix damaged system parts

The Rigd cryptovirus appends the .rigd extension to the original names of the encoded files and drops a ransom note in each folder with encrypted data. This particular version is known as the one that uses the online method, which means it does need to be connected to the Internet for its components to operate correctly. That makes file encryption using the previously developed tool mainly impossible.

After the successful contact to the C&C Server, Rigd creates a key and sends both public and private parts of this key to the server. The server stores them for future decryption of files. This means that all victims get a unique identification key that is needed for the best decryption after the infection. Without such a key, the recovery is limited or even impossible. At least with the available decrypter.

The virus can encrypt data on local drives (fixed and removable), network shares available at the moment of encryption, and files in any accessible shared folders. During encryption, it deletes volume shadow copies. There are additional changes in registries, system folders. This is not only a file-locking malware, so you must remove the threat fully. AV detection[3] rates show that the process is possible if you use tools like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes.

Rigd virusThe malicious program is focused on encryption because this is the way to alter the files. Threat can be removed with AV tools

Once a computer is infected with malware, its system is changed to operate differently. For example, an infection can alter the Windows registry database, damage vital bootup, and other sections, delete or corrupt DLL files, etc. Once a system file is damaged by malware, antivirus software cannot do anything about it, leaving it just the way it is. Consequently, users might experience performance, stability, and usability issues, to the point where a full Windows reinstallation is required.

Therefore, we highly recommend using a one-of-a-kind, patented technology of FortectIntego repair. Not only can it fix virus damage after the infection, but it is also capable of removing malware that has already broken into the system thanks to several engines used by the program. Besides, the application can also fix various Windows-related issues that are not caused by malware infections, for example, Blue Screen errors, freezes, registry errors, damaged DLLs, etc.

  • Download the application by clicking on the link above
  • Click on the ReimageRepair.exe
    Reimage download
  • If User Account Control (UAC) shows up, select Yes
  • Press Install and wait till the program finishes the installation process
  • The analysis of your machine will begin immediately
  • Once complete, check the results – they will be listed in the Summary
  • You can now click on each of the issues and fix them manually
  • If you see many problems that you find difficult to fix, we recommend you purchase the license and fix them automatically.Reimage results

Possible ways to restore your files after the Rigd file-locker attack

At first, it is essential to clarify that not all files can be decrypted or recovered. The virus will only encrypt files with specific extensions. By default, the virus intends to encrypt common file types, but this number can increase on each system and attack. However, generally, system files are not affected by encryption. Though, such pieces get damaged by the malicious infection directly.

If Rigd cannot establish a connection to its command and control server (C&C Server) before starting the encryption process, it uses the offline key that is not unique to each victim. This key is the same for all victims, making it possible to decrypt files encrypted during a ransomware attack.

If you have infected your computer with one of the Djvu variants, you should use Emsisoft decryptor for Djvu/STOP. It is important to mention that this tool will not work for everyone – it only works if data is locked with an offline ID due to malware failing to communicate with its remote servers.

Even if your case meets this condition, somebody from the victims has to pay criminals, retrieve an offline key, and then share it with security researchers at Emsisoft. As a result, you might not be able to restore the .rigd files immediately. Thus, if the decryptor says your data was locked with an offline ID but cannot be recovered currently, you should try later. You also need to upload a set of files – one encrypted and a healthy one to the company's servers before you proceed.

  • Download the app from the official Emsisoft website.
  • After pressing Download button, a small pop-up at the bottom, titled decrypt_STOPDjvu.exe should show up – click it.
    Rigd virus
  • If User Account Control (UAC) message shows up, press Yes.
  • Agree to License Terms by pressing Yes.
  • After Disclaimer shows up, press OK.
  • The tool should automatically populate the affected folders, although you can also do it by pressing Add folder at the bottom.
    Rigd virus
  • Press Decrypt.
    Rigd virus

From here, there are three available outcomes:

  1. Decrypted!” will be shown under files that were decrypted successfully – they are now usable again.
  2. Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID:” means that the keys for this version of the virus have not yet been retrieved, so you should try later.
  3. This ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible” – you are unable to decrypt files with this tool.

Ransom note analysis and what to do instead of paying

The data locking virus delivers a ransom note titled _readme.txt that includes all the information required for users to understand the demands of cybercriminals. The hackers offer victims an opportunity to pay $980 in Bitcoin. It is possible to get a discount of 50% within the first 72 hours instead of paying full price. As we mentioned, try to ignore these instructions and move on with virus removal instead. This is the best way to avoid significant damage to your machine.

ATTENTION!

Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-CtDpAM1g5f
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
manager@mailtemp.ch

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
managerhelper@airmail.cc

Your personal ID:

When the user wants to contact cyber criminals, it is possible to reach them via email (manager@mailtemp.ch, managerhelper@airmail.cc ). If the victim does so, then criminals can look for a needed decryption tool and send that after the money transfer. This happens rarely, so make sure to remove the Rigd infection instead of paying. We will answer all the questions for you.

There are no special tactics involved, and there are too few successful decryption stories to encourage you to trust these blackmailers. Even a simple email message exchange can lead to serious issues when the criminal is sending the email back with some additional malware payload. You can never be sure.

Criminals often offer a discount or a free decryption option for one of the affected files. This is not recommended. These file-lockers can store some smaller files and state that you got your file encrypted when they send you a copy of the piece before encryption. You become a victim of their scam this way. Do not try to get anything from them. There is nothing trustworthy about extortionists.

Since many users do not prepare proper data backups before being attacked by Rigd ransomware, they might often permanently lose access to their files. Paying criminals is also very risky, as they might not fulfill the promises and never send back the required decryption tool.

While this might sound terrible, not all is lost – data recovery software might be able to help you in some situations (it highly depends on the encryption algorithm used, whether ransomware managed to complete the programmed tasks, etc.). Since there are thousands of different ransomware strains, it is immediately impossible to tell whether third-party software will work for you.

Install data recovery software

  1. Download Data Recovery Pro.
  2. Double-click the installer to launch it.
  3. Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.Install program
  4. As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
  5. Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
  6. Press Next.
  7. At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.Select Deep scan
  8. Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
  9. You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
  10. Press Recover to retrieve your files.Recover files

Do not skip through this later section with additional tips because when Rigd ransomware is active, your device can get damaged significantly. You may need to enter the Safe Mode or find a different solution to bring back the computer to a normal state. If the virus is not taken care of, your computer can be damaged and stop working correctly. There are no other options for cleaning the system and preparing it for file recovery.

If you put your restored files on the infected machine – the PC can get damaged. The only way to protect the system is to prevent ransomware infections. These threats are silent and malicious, so distribution methods include pirating platforms and malicious spam email attachments. The malware was written by people with malicious intents and released online as a quickly adapting threat. The family is known for releasing new versions weekly. Do not sleep and remove the virus.

Rigd encrypts files on the PC and appends the extension at the end of every encrypted file name. But that is the only visible symptom on the machine. Your machine might store additional threats and run processes damaging the device or spreading further on the network. Rely on tools like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, Malwarebytes, FortectIntego to have the machine recovered and ensure the security of the device.

Offer
do it now!
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Fortect Happiness
Guarantee
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Intego Happiness
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Compatible with Microsoft Windows Compatible with macOS
What to do if failed?
If you failed to fix virus damage using Fortect Intego, submit a question to our support team and provide as much details as possible.
Fortect Intego has a free limited scanner. Fortect Intego offers more through scan when you purchase its full version. When free scanner detects issues, you can fix them using free manual repairs or you can decide to purchase the full version in order to fix them automatically.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Fortect, try running SpyHunter 5.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Intego, try running Combo Cleaner.

Getting rid of Rigd virus. Follow these steps

Isolate the infected computer

Some ransomware strains aim to infect not only one computer but hijack the entire network. As soon as one of the machines is infected, malware can spread via network and encrypt files everywhere else, including Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices. If your computer is connected to a network, it is important to isolate it to prevent re-infection after ransomware removal is complete.

The easiest way to disconnect a PC from everything is simply to plug out the ethernet cable. However, in the corporate environment, this might be extremely difficult to do (also would take a long time). The method below will disconnect from all the networks, including local and the internet, isolating each of the machines involved.

  • Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter
  • Go to Network and Internet Network and internet
  • Click Network and Sharing Center Network and internet 2
  • On the left, pick Change adapter settings Network and internet 3
  • Right-click on your connection (for example, Ethernet), and select Disable Network and internet 4
  • Confirm with Yes.

If you are using some type of cloud storage you are connected to, you should disconnect from it immediately. It is also advisable to disconnect all the external devices, such as USB flash sticks, external HDDs, etc. Once the malware elimination process is finished, you can connect your computers to the network and internet, as explained above, but by pressing Enable instead.

Restore Windows "hosts" file to its original state

Some ransomware might modify Windows hosts file in order to prevent users from accessing certain websites online. For example, Djvu ransomware variants add dozens of entries containing URLs of security-related websites, such as 2-spyware.com. Each of the entries means that users will not be able to access the listed web addresses and will receive an error instead.

Here's an example of “hosts” file entries that were injected by ransomware:

Hosts file

In order to restore your ability to access all websites without restrictions, you should either delete the file (Windows will automatically recreate it) or remove all the malware-created entries. If you have never touched the “hosts” file before, you should simply delete it by marking it and pressing Shift + Del on your keyboard. For that, navigate to the following location:

C:\\Windows\\System32\\drivers\\etc\\

Delete Windows "hosts" file

Create data backups to avoid file loss in the future

One of the many countermeasures for home users against ransomware is data backups. Even if your Windows get corrupted, you can reinstall everything from scratch and retrieve files from backups with minimal losses overall. Most importantly, you would not have to pay cybercriminals and risk your money as well.

Therefore, if you have already dealt with a ransomware attack, we strongly advise you to prepare backups for future use. There are two options available to you:

  • Backup on a physical external drive, such as a USB flash drive or external HDD.
  • Use cloud storage services.

The first method is not that convenient, however, as backups need to constantly be updated manually – although it is very reliable. Therefore, we highly advise choosing cloud storage instead – it is easy to set up and efficient to sustain. The problem with it is that storage space is limited unless you want to pay for the subscription.

Using Microsoft OneDrive

OneDrive is a built-in tool that comes with every modern Windows version. By default, you get 5 GB of storage that you can use for free. You can increase that storage space, but for a price. Here's how to setup backups for OneDrive:

  1. Click on the OneDrive icon within your system tray.
  2. Select Help & Settings > Settings.
    Go to OneDrive settings
  3. If you don't see your email under the Account tab, you should click Add an account and proceed with the on-screen instructions to set yourself up.
    Add OneDrive account
  4. Once done, move to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
    Manage backup
  5. Select Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, or a combination of whichever folders you want to backup.
  6. Press Start backup.
    Pick which folders to sync

After this, all the files that are imported into the above-mentioned folders will be automatically backed for you. If you want to add other folders or files, you have to do that manually. For that, open File Explorer by pressing Win + E on your keyboard, and then click on the OneDrive icon. You should drag and drop folders you want to backup (or you can use Copy/Paste as well).

Using Google Drive

Google Drive is another great solution for free backups. The good news is that you get as much as 15GB for free by choosing this storage. There are also paid versions available, with significantly more storage to choose from.

You can access Google Drive via the web browser or use a desktop app you can download on the official website. If you want your files to be synced automatically, you will have to download the app, however.

  1. Download the Google Drive app installer and click on it.
    Install Google Drive app
  2. Wait a few seconds for it to be installed. Complete installation
  3. Now click the arrow within your system tray – you should see Google Drive icon there, click it once.
    Google Drive Sign in
  4. Click Get Started. Backup and sync
  5. Enter all the required information – your email/phone, and password. Enter email/phone
  6. Now pick what you want to sync and backup. You can click on Choose Folder to add additional folders to the list.
  7. Once done, pick Next. Choose what to sync
  8. Now you can select to sync items to be visible on your computer.
  9. Finally, press Start and wait till the sync is complete. Your files are now being backed up.

Report the incident to your local authorities

Ransomware is a huge business that is highly illegal, and authorities are very involved in catching malware operators. To have increased chances of identifying the culprits, the agencies need information. Therefore, by reporting the crime, you could help with stopping the cybercriminal activities and catching the threat actors. Make sure you include all the possible details, including how did you notice the attack, when it happened, etc. Additionally, providing documents such as ransom notes, examples of encrypted files, or malware executables would also be beneficial.

Law enforcement agencies typically deal with online fraud and cybercrime, although it depends on where you live. Here is the list of local authority groups that handle incidents like ransomware attacks, sorted by country:

Internet Crime Complaint Center IC3

If your country is not listed above, you should contact the local police department or communications center.

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
  1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
  2. 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.
  3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list. Windows 7/XP
Windows 10 / Windows 8
  1. Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
    Settings
  2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
    Update and security
  3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
  4. Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
  5. Click Restart now.
    Reboot
  6. Select Troubleshoot. Choose an option
  7. Go to Advanced options. Advanced options
  8. Select Startup Settings. Startup settings
  9. Press Restart.
  10. Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking. Enable safe mode

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:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Click on More details.
    Open task manager
  3. Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
  4. Right-click and select Open file location.
    Open file location
  5. Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
    End task
  6. Delete the contents of the malicious folder.

Step 3. Check program Startup

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Go to Startup tab.
  3. Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
    Startup

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:

  1. Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
    Disk cleanup
  2. 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).
  3. Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:

    Temporary Internet Files
    Downloads
    Recycle Bin
    Temporary files

  4. Pick Clean up system files.
    Delete temp files
  5. 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.

Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from Rigd and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes

How to prevent from getting ransomware

Do not let government spy on you

The government has many issues in regards to tracking users' data and spying on citizens, so you should take this into consideration and learn more about shady information gathering practices. Avoid any unwanted government tracking or spying by going totally anonymous on the internet. 

You can choose a different location when you go online and access any material you want without particular content restrictions. You can easily enjoy internet connection without any risks of being hacked by using Private Internet Access VPN.

Control the information that can be accessed by government any other unwanted party and surf online without being spied on. Even if you are not involved in illegal activities or trust your selection of services, platforms, be suspicious for your own security and take precautionary measures by using the VPN service.

Backup files for the later use, in case of the malware attack

Computer users can suffer from data losses due to cyber infections or their own faulty doings. Ransomware can encrypt and hold files hostage, while unforeseen power cuts might cause a loss of important documents. If you have proper up-to-date backups, you can easily recover after such an incident and get back to work. It is also equally important to update backups on a regular basis so that the newest information remains intact – you can set this process to be performed automatically.

When you have the previous version of every important document or project you can avoid frustration and breakdowns. It comes in handy when malware strikes out of nowhere. Use Data Recovery Pro for the data restoration process.

About the author
Linas Kiguolis
Linas Kiguolis - Expert in social media

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References
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