Rooe ransomware (Removal Instructions) - Recovery Instructions Included

Rooe virus Removal Guide

What is Rooe ransomware?

Rooe ransomware – file locking malware that deletes Shadow Volume Copies to prevent easy recovery

Rooe ransomwareRooe ransomware is a file locking virus that modifies Windows hosts file in order to prevent users from seeking help

Rooe ransomware is a new Djvu/STOP virus variant that was first spotted in mid-February 2020. Just as its predecessors, the malware uses software cracks to penetrate the machines of random users and then encrypts all pictures, music, videos, documents, databases, PDF, and other files with the help of a secure RSA encryption algorithm.[1] As a result, users cannot access their files, each of which is a marked with .rooe extension; although hackers offer a deal – pay $490 within the first 72 hours of infection, and you will get the Rooe ransomware decryptor. After that, the requirement doubles, and victims are asked to pay $980 in Bitcoin.

Rooe virus also drops a ransom note _readme.txt, which also includes contact details of the attackers – datarestorehelp@firemail.cc and datahelp@iran.ir. However, if you fell a victim of ransomware, you should not hurry and pay the ransom – there are several other methods that might be able to save your data, e.g., Emsisoft's decryptor for STOP Djvu. However, before performing Rooe ransomware removal, you should backup all the encrypted files

Name Rooe ransomware
Type Cryptomalware, file locking virus
Family The malware stems from the prominent Djvu/STOP virus family
Distribution Most of the infections occur when users download and run pirated program or software crack installers
File extension All personal files are appended with .rooe extension (malware skips most executable and all system files)
Ransom note _readme.txt note is dropped into each of the folders that hold encrypted files
Contact For communication purposes, malicious actors ask victims to write an email to helpmanager@firemail.cc or helpmanager@iran.ir
Ransom size Among all versions of the virus, hackers' demands are consistent: they ask for $490 in BTC within first 72 hours of infection, which later increases to $980
Data recovery In case the Rooe virus used an offline ID to encrypt data, Emsisoft's decryptor might be helpful. In other cases, third-party recovery software can be used, although chances of it being successful are low. Paying criminals, while not recommended, might be the only chance of regaining data
Malware removal Download and install reputable security software, bring it up to date, and perform a full system scan (in Safe Mode if required)
System fix Ransomware performs multiple system changes that can render Windows unstable after its termination; to fix virus damage, we recommend using FortectIntego

Rooe ransomware and its forerunners have deep roots within cybercrime scene: the initial release of malware was observed in December 2017; since then, it became one of the most prolific ransomware families that target regular users. Previous versions of the family include .bboo, .alka, .repp, .btos, and many others (the total number of variants, each using a different extension, exceeds 200).

To battle this extensive malware, security researchers developed tools like STOPDecrypter that has helped thousands of victims to recover files for free, although it only worked for users whose data was encrypted with an offline ID. Luckily, security experts at Emsisoft delivered a decryptor which works for all variants released prior to August 2019; another decryption tool works only with offline IDs as well. While not immediately, users can expect the decryptor to work in some cases, even with the Rooe ransomware encrypted files.

Rooe ransomware distribution is simple yet effective – illegal installers

One of the main reasons why this ransomware family is so successful is its simple yet efficient distribution tactics. Malicious actors operate on various shady software crack and pirated software websites, where they upload booby-trapped installers. Users who are willing to install software and bypass the licensing process, often resort to torrent and similar websites. Unfortunately, it is a hub for malware, and Rooe ransomware is just one of many infections that victims could catch there.

It is important to notice that crack tools will most certainly be marked as malicious by almost all security vendors – this happens because of the core principle of the operation, as cracks are designed to break a code within other applications. Therefore, there is no way to verify whether the installer actually holds the malware inside, or it would simply crack the software. Without a doubt, you should stay away from malicious installers that might result in permanent loss of personal data help on a computer.

Nevertheless, maliciosu actors always seek to expand their campaigns, and other distribution methods may be employed at any time. Therefore, stay safe by following these precautionary measures:

  • Backup all your files regularly – this would potentially save you from all negative ransomware effects;
  • Employ comprehensive anti-malware software with web protection enabled;
  • Make sure you update Windows OS along with all the installed programs on the patch day;
  • Use strong passwords for all your accounts (and never reuse them);
  • Do not use the default Remote Desktop Protocol port and protect it with a password consisting of alphanumeric characters, i.e., not easily predictable one;
  • When dealing with unsolicited emails, watch out for malicious attachments or hyperlinks (documents that ask you to run macro function are especially dangerous);
  • Enable firewall, use VPN with RDP, and protect your browsers with ad-blockers.

Rooe ransomware might install data stealing modules and modify Windows hosts file

Rooe virus targets all the latest versions of Windows machines (Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10) that use either 64 or 32-bit architecture. One the malicious executable, which is usually named randomly, is launched, the malware creates an entry inside %AppData% and %User% folder and then begins the infection routine. There are several changes that Rooe ransomware needs to perform within the system in order to run a successful encryption process.

Rooe ransomware virusRooe ransomware is a Djvu virus variant that holds all personal files hostage until ransom of $490/980 in BTC is paid

For example, Rooe ransomware is programmed to disable Windows Startup function and delete Shadow Volume Copies to prevent quick recovery. For persistence, it also modifies the Windows registry[2] database, which allows it to run each time the computer is booted.

There are few distinctive characteristics that relate to Rooe ransomware, as well as other Djvu variants, which include:

  • Ransomware may place a data-stealing module into web browsers, which would allow hackers to collect sensitive information that is entered by victims; this information can later be used for money theft or can be sold on the dark web's underground forums;
  • During the infection routine, the virus modifies Windows hosts file in the background by including all the security-focused website addresses. As a result, victims are unable to connect to these sites that would help them to remove Rooe ransomware from their systems and possibly recover files using alternative methods;
  • Djvu ransomware was observed incorporating additional malware payloads during its infections process – one of such examples includes the notorious AZORult banking Trojan.[3]

Once the necessary preparations are done, Rooe will proceed with file encryption. At this time, users may see a Windows update window – this is done deliberately in order to prevent victims from interrupting the process. A ransom _readme.txt will be presented right after that, it reads:

ATTENTION!

Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, 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:
https://we.tl/t-Oc0xgfzC7q
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:
helpmanager@firemail.cc

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
helpmanager@iran.ir

Your personal ID:

As previously mentioned, paying cybercriminals behind the Rooe ransomware virus is definitely not an optimal solution, as you may end up losing your money along with your already compromised files. Remember that you are dealing with criminals, and these people cannot be trusted. If you decide to pay the ransom, do it at your own risk.

As an alternative method, you can employ the decryption tool from Emsisoft, or use third-party solutions – we provide the detailed guide below. Important note: you should backup all the encrypted data before you perform any changes to it, as you may damage it permanently, and then even hackers won't be able to decrypt it. Keep in mind that removing Rooe ransomware will not recover your files, as these two processes are not related.

Regardless if your files can be saved or not, you should also take care of the infected system. If, after Rooe virus removal, your system is unstable, use FortectIntego to fix the broken registries and other system files.

Rooe ransomware encrypted filesRooe ransomware uses sophisticated RSA algorithm to lock data on targeted device

Rooe ransomware: a correct removal process

In many cases, Rooe virus infection comes as a surprise to users, as most never had to deal with ransomware before. While it is true that file locking malware can be exceptionally devastating not only for corporations but also for regular users, it is important not to panic and perform Rooe ransomware removal steps correctly.

In case you have backups available (which is usually not the case), you scan your computer with anti-malware software without having to worry about anything. Employ SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, Malwarebytes, or other reputable software for the purpose. However, if you do not possess backups, you need to make a copy of your locked files first and only then remove Rooe ransomware from the system. Depending on your personal situation, you may recover all, some, or none of your data using alternative methods listed below.

After you complete Rooe ransomware termination, you should go to the following location on your machine and delete the hosts file in order to be able to access security-related websites once again:

C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\

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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 Rooe virus. Follow these steps

Manual removal using Safe Mode

In case Rooe ransomware is tampering with your security software, access Safe Mode with Networking:

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.

Remove Rooe using System Restore

You may also try to get rid of the malware by using System Restore:

  • Step 1: Reboot your computer to Safe Mode with Command Prompt
    Windows 7 / Vista / XP
    1. Click Start Shutdown Restart OK.
    2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
    3. Select Command Prompt from the list Select 'Safe Mode with Command Prompt'

    Windows 10 / Windows 8
    1. Press the Power button at the Windows login screen. Now press and hold Shift, which is on your keyboard, and click Restart..
    2. Now select Troubleshoot Advanced options Startup Settings and finally press Restart.
    3. Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt in Startup Settings window. Select 'Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt'
  • Step 2: Restore your system files and settings
    1. Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter. Enter 'cd restore' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    2. Now type rstrui.exe and press Enter again.. Enter 'rstrui.exe' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    3. When a new window shows up, click Next and select your restore point that is prior the infiltration of Rooe. After doing that, click Next. When 'System Restore' window shows up, select 'Next' Select your restore point and click 'Next'
    4. Now click Yes to start system restore. Click 'Yes' and start system restore
    Once you restore your system to a previous date, download and scan your computer with FortectIntego and make sure that Rooe removal is performed successfully.

Bonus: Recover your data

Guide which is presented above is supposed to help you remove Rooe from your computer. To recover your encrypted files, we recommend using a detailed guide prepared by 2-spyware.com security experts.

If your files are encrypted by Rooe, you can use several methods to restore them:

Data Recovery Pro solution

Data Recovery Pro is one of the best tools when it comes to recovery of accidentally deleted or otherwise lost files. While it is not designed to decipher ransomware-encrypted data, it may help you retrieve at least some of the copies from within your hard drive.

  • 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 Rooe ransomware;
  • Restore them.

Make use of Windows Previous Versions feature:

If you had System Restore function enabled before the malware attack, you could try this method.

  • 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 may be able to recover all files under some circumstances

Try ShadowExplorer – it may be capable of recovering all files in case certain bugs occurring during the encryption process by the Rooe virus.

  • 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.

Try Emsisoft's decryptor

While there are few methods to check whether ransomware used an online or offline ID for your files, you should simply not bother and try the decryptor instead. You can download Emsisoft's decryptor here. Additionally, you may also ask Dr.Web to assist you, although the help is not free.

Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from Rooe 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.

About the author
Lucia Danes
Lucia Danes - Virus researcher

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