Robm ransomware (virus) - Decryption Steps Included
Robm virus Removal Guide
What is Robm ransomware?
Robmransomware is the virus asking for payments from victims via the _readme.txt file
The virus that demands money for the alleged decryption tool
Robm virus locks up your files and makes them useless, but the ransomware is more than just a locker virus. The infection comes from installing malicious files into the computer or downloading cracks for games with attachments that include malicious software as well. People might not notice the infiltration, but once those files get locked and the .robm extension is placed on every document, image, video, or audio file, the main encryption process is done. This is the dangerous threat deriving from another malware like this known for a while – Djvu ransomware.
You cannot open those documents once the system is infected by this type of nasty virus. Infections happen when people install crack bundles on systems which then downloads other things like keygens. It is known for quite some time that the developers of this threat family like to place their infections in cracks for NBA, FIBA games, Adobe software versions.
Once the ransomware gets inside there is no turning back because code has been written into every part making it impossible to get rid of the threat completely and easily. There are many issues that such an infection can create besides file-locking. However, the main worry should be removing the infection. Even though file recovery is an important issue, when the virus is still active, the machine can get permanently damaged.
Name | Robm virus |
---|---|
Type | Ransomware, file-locker, cryptovirus |
File marker | .robm can be found added at the end of every encrypted file |
Family | Djvu/STOP ransomware family |
Distribution | Files with the payload of the virus can be distributed as email attachments or included in the cracked software packages, game cheat bundles via pirating services |
Ransom note | _readme.txt |
Contact emails | manager@mailtemp.ch, helprestoremanager@airmail.cc |
Ransom amount | $980/ $490 |
Removal | Threats like this can be eliminated using anti-malware tools because the detection-based applications find all malicious pieces and eliminates the virus |
Repair | Make sure to clear the system fully, so rely on FortectIntego and take care of the virus damage |
With the Robm virus, you cannot avoid being scammed out of your money because the developers use blackmail methods to lure people into paying the ransom and even inject other malware on the machine to achieve additional goals. This is not recommended because it is not safe.
Malware runs an army-grade algorithm for file encoding and demands payment for file decryption services in exchange. The offer for the recovery is false and the threat actors can trick you into downloading additional malware instead. So experts[1] recommend staying away from these people and removing the threat as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, victims think they pay for restoring personal data back to how it was before infection by this malicious program, but malware creators provide no such thing. Usually, when people transfer funds onto a website they trust criminals that do not provide anything in return instead.
The best cure for malware like this is antivirus programs because tools like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes can help with the malicious files, leftovers, trojans that run in the background and terminate the ransomware thoroughly. This is not the same as decryption or file recovery, but until the system is clear of the infection, your files are at risk of getting permanently damaged.
This is why we recommend removing the Robm ransomware with a proper AV detection-based app.[2] Then you can worry about your files and we are here for you with all the possible options for file recovery.
What can be done first?
If your computer got infected with one of the Djvu variants, you should try using Emsisoft decryptor for Djvu/STOP. Even though it is less possible for the Robm virus to be decryptable, you must check to be sure. It is important to mention that this tool will not work for everyone – it only works if data was 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 encrypted 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.
- 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.
- Press Decrypt.
From here, there are three available outcomes:
- “Decrypted!” will be shown under files that were decrypted successfully – they are now usable again.
- “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.
- “This ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible” – you are unable to decrypt files with this tool.
Robm virus in-depth
Affected files are appended with an extra .robm extension, so after each filename and type indication follows the appendix. Hence malware name: Robm ransomware. In most cases, it cannot be seen until the encryption has been done. You will see those extensions when your data gets locked. The ransom note _readme.txt also appears after the successful file-locking. This is the infection that hits hard and that manages to run other processes just for persistence purposes making cleanup and recovery extremely difficult.
It is important to be aware that the ransom note reminds victims of their obligations, including using the key and specific software in order for files access restoration. This way criminals create fake trustworthiness. It is also done by promising discounts on decryption tools or offers if contacted within 72 hours after compromising the device.
The tool they want you to buy is expensive at $490-$980, it gets doubled after the first hours from their encryption and message delivery. However, paying for the Djvu ransomware family cannot give positive results. Robm ransomware creators try to extort money out of victims by claiming that certain files need cleaning and offering the test decryption. Malware like this is made for financial gains only. The versions of this family include recently released IISA and PQGS.
The note lists the contact details, ransom amount, and other information needed for the payment
Once a computer is infected with any malware, its system is changed to operate differently. It is exceptionally dangerous when it comes to ransomware like the Robm file virus. For example, an infection can alter the Windows registry database, damage vital bootup, and other sections, delete or corrupt DLL files, etc.
If the important system file is damaged by malware, antivirus software is not capable of doing 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 is also capable of fixing 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
- 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.
Other options for .robm file recovery
It is important to clear the system before you attempt any recovery in order to avoid possible errors or damage. Anti-malware tools can help to remove Robm file viruses, but it is not the same as restoring files. If you try to restore files when the malware is present the second round can run. This encryption can be more difficult leading up to permanent damage.
Data recovery can be a difficult task, but it is possible. One of the most reliable methods for getting your data back after ransomware attacks is decryption tools, but there is no official app. The other approaches are listed below, but remember to be careful and follow each step to avoid any corruption.
Since many users do not prepare proper data backups prior to being attacked by such threats like Robm ransomware, they might often lose access to their files permanently. 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.
Therefore, we suggest trying regardless of which ransomware attacked your computer. Before you begin, several pointers are important while dealing with this situation:
- Since the encrypted data on your computer might permanently be damaged by security or data recovery software, you should first make backups of it – use a USB flash drive or another storage.
- Only attempt to recover your files using this method after you perform a scan with anti-malware software.
Install data recovery software
- Download Data Recovery Pro.
- Double-click the installer to launch it.
- Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
- As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
- Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
- Press Next.
- At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
- Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
- You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
- Press Recover to retrieve your files.
Distribution of malicious files and holding property for ransom are criminal acts in many countries. These cyberattacks have had a significant impact on the world, so it is important that victims report them to law enforcement where they reside as this helps determine how best to investigate these activities.[3]
Robm ransomware is going to make sure that your files are not recoverable, so the sooner you remove them the better. We note how important it is to keep tools like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, Malwarebytes, FortectIntego on the machine. You can avoid future infections by having these tools running from time to time.
Getting rid of Robm 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
- Click Network and Sharing Center
- On the left, pick Change adapter settings
- Right-click on your connection (for example, Ethernet), and select Disable
- 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:
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\\
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:
- Click on the OneDrive icon within your system tray.
- Select Help & Settings > Settings.
- 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.
- Once done, move to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
- Select Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, or a combination of whichever folders you want to backup.
- Press Start backup.
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.
- Download the Google Drive app installer and click on it.
- Wait a few seconds for it to be installed.
- Now click the arrow within your system tray – you should see Google Drive icon there, click it once.
- Click Get Started.
- Enter all the required information – your email/phone, and password.
- Now pick what you want to sync and backup. You can click on Choose Folder to add additional folders to the list.
- Once done, pick Next.
- Now you can select to sync items to be visible on your computer.
- 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:
- USA – Internet Crime Complaint Center IC3
- United Kingdom – ActionFraud
- Canada – Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Australia – ScamWatch
- New Zealand – ConsumerProtection
- Germany – Polizei
- France – Ministère de l'Intérieur
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
- 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.
Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from Robm 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.
- ^ Lesvirus. Lesvirus. Virus removal guides and spyware news.
- ^ Virus sample analysis. VirusTotal. Online malware scanner.
- ^ Alexander Culafi. Europol 'targets' 12 suspects in ransomware bust. Techtarget. Search security.