How to remove Sss ransomware

Sss ransomware – a file-locking virus that demands Bitcoins for the decryption tool

Sss ransomware is a computer virus that locks all non-system-related files on the computer, appends an extension, and then demands a ransom for the decryption tool/key. This is how all ransomware works. The most likely way you got your device infected is either by opening a mischievous hyperlink in an email (or downloading an infected attachment) or by downloading something from a torrent site (or another file-sharing platform).

When Sss ransomware virus payload file finds its way to a computer, the encryption^[1] process starts immediately. While doing this, the virus renames all files appending a complex three-part extension to all non-system files: 1. appointed victim IDk 2. criminal contact email address; 3. .sss appendix. Just like its older version like MUST or R3f5s, and as a matter of fact, all ransomware from the Dharma family, which this cryptovirus belongs to, does that.

Once all files are encrypted and renamed, the Sss ransomware shows a pop-up window and generates text files, and drops them in all affected folders so that the victim would find it literally everywhere. That's called ransom notices. Text files are titled “FILES ENCRYPTED.txt,” and the pop-up window has the cybercriminal's email address (m5b92n5p1@mail.com) instead of a name.

The text file is very concise and consists only of two criminal email addresses. The pop-up window is a whole another deal. First, the creators of Sss ransomware explain to the victim what has happened. Secondly, two emails are provided to contact the criminals (m5b92n5p1@mail.com and m5b92n5p1@protonmail.com).

Thirdly, the cybercriminals want to establish mutual trust by offering a free decryption of one file. By doing this, they would somewhat prove that they really possess the Sss virus decryption tool and will give it to the user after he pays. Then the perpetrators provide extensive instructions on how to obtain Bitcoins, so although the ransom amount isn't specified, the payment method is clear.

And last but not least, the criminals warn the victims not to use any third-party decryption tools and not to rename or try and modify the encrypted files because any of those actions will lead to a permanent data loss. Victims should never contact the criminals or pay the ransom. There are always alternatives for file recovery. Even after the Sss ransomware attack.

But first things first, the virus has to be dealt with immediately. We recommend using SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes anti-malware software that has powerful engines for virus detection and elimination. You can properly remove Sss ransomware this way. Moreover, maintaining these apps up-to-date might save you from future ransomware or malware attacks.

When you're finished with Sss ransomware removal, we strongly advise using the FortectIntego tool to automatically locate and restore what changes the virus might have caused to system files and settings. Corrupted system files might prevent you from fully enjoying your device.

The usual, never-changing extorsion message from the creators of Dharma family ransomware, in this case, the Sss ransomware pop-up window:

All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail m5b92n5p1@mail.com
Write this ID in the title of your message –
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails:m5b92n5p1@protonmail.com
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click 'Buy bitcoins', and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
http://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.

 Concise message in the ransom note text files (FILES ENCRYPTED.txt):

all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
Write email m5b92n5p1@mail.com or m5b92n5p1@protonmail.com

Avoiding ransomware on the internet

All malware^[2] is designed to exploit computer systems that aren't sufficiently secured. That's where we come in and save the day! Comply with our suggestions, and your security against malware will rise immensely. 

Acquire a trusty anti-malware software that will watch your back while you're browsing on the internet. We've suggested a few options in the first part of the article. Keep virus databases updated frequently.

Always keep all software up-to-date. Whether it be your device's operating system, anti-virus (AV) software, or any other app – as soon as a new version or an update is available, get it immediately. Hackers love to exploit security issues in outdated programs.

Before downloading any email attachments – scan them with the AV engine to ensure it's not infected. Don't open phony looking emails and hyperlinks in them. Try and avoid high-risk websites. And ALWAYS remember to KEEP BACKUPS.

SSS ransomware virus removal guidelines

Experts^[3] advise deleting any malware right away before it did any more damage. We suggest using trustworthy SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes anti-malware software to remove Sss ransomware and all its allocated files.

Before restoring your data from backups, it is highly recommended for users to do a full scan with the FortectIntego tool to make sure all system files and settings are default. Ransomware is known to corrupt these things. So after Sss ransomware removal, do the full scan, the app will find and repair all changes the virus might have caused.