How to remove Stun ransomware

Stun ransomware is the cryptovirus that marks encrypted files using the pattern with its contact email address and .stun extension

Stun ransomware is the cyber threat that encrypts data on a targeted device and appends those files using .id.[unlockdata@foxmail.com].stun. This patter is common for the ransomware family this virus belongs to. Dharma ransomware is one of the most dangerous and well-known crypto malware that often uses a pattern of file markers which include victims' ID and virus developers' contact email.^[1] Another common fact is the ransom note – payment instructions. The program window that appears on the screen after encryption always looks the same, besides the changed contact information and delivers tips for the ransom payment. The particular Stun ransomware virus came to the wild at the end of March alongside a few other versions. Developers of this ransomware are known for releasing new variants one after the other.

Developers of Stun ransomware virus forms a pattern of the file extension with more information like contact email – unlockdata@foxmail.com and ID number that identifies each victim of the ransomware. This is a common pattern for various crypto malware variants, and Dharma virus is one of them. 

Since Stun ransomware belongs to this notorious family, it is not much altered. The ransom note of previous versions in this family is identical to the one delivered after the encryption process in this case. The program window named with the contact email shows the instructions on getting a cryptocurrency wallet to be able to pay the ransom. 

However, Stun ransomware developers also guarantee the decryption and offer test decryption of one file. This is not advisable because most of the victims who pay are not getting their data back. Paying victims, most often lose their money or data after contacting cybercriminals.^[2]

Stun ransomware also is designed to alter settings of the system, disable files or alter registry keys and install other programs. Ransomware can change registry keys and target directories like:

• %AppData%
• %Local%
• %LocalLow%
• %Temp%
• %Roaming%.

Stun ransomware focus on file encryption, but these additional changes ensure virus persistence on the affected device. This is one of the most harmful cyber threats, and you need to continue to the removal of the virus before any attempts of file recovery.

Stun ransomware removal requires professional anti-malware tools. Fortunately, many antivirus engines can detect this threat as malicious and remove it from the machine.^[3] Choose the anti-malware program wisely and get it from a reputable source to avoid any installation of PUP.

To remove Stun ransomware using FortectIntego or any similar antivirus or PC repair tool and make sure to double-check for virus damage. Scanning the system thoroughly with this program ensures that the system is malware-free and any data recovery can be performed.

Experts^[4] mostly recommend using your data backups stored on external devices or cloud services for the job. Since Stun ransomware is not decryptable yet this is the best solution. However, you can also try to use data restoring software if you haven't backed your files.

Ransomware enters the system as a result of opening an infected file

Cryptovirus infections spread around on the internet by using infected spam email attachments. Most often these emails pose as notifications from companies or services like DHL, eBay, Amazon, or FedEx. However, you should pay more attention to emails you receive on a daily.

When the email has grammar mistakes or typos or includes shortened hyperlinks, the notification should be considered as suspicious, especially when you don't use the product or service. Delete these emails immediately from the email box and avoid clicking on any link or file.

The malicious script gets triggered once the file is downloaded and opened on the system. Then a payload dropper is launched, or ransomware directly infects the machine. Macro viruses get hidden on MS documents, PDFs, executables or databases. Pay close attention and avoid becoming a ransomware victim. 

Get rid of Stun ransomware virus damage by cleaning the system with professional antivirus tools

When dealing with Stun ransomware virus, users have a difficult time while trying to delete it and fix the damage on the affected computer because it changes program startups, disables security tools and features to make the AV unable to detect and remove the malware.

However, Stun ransomware removal requires professional anti-malware tools for a reason. When you get a tool that is capable of detecting this type of threat, you can scan the system and remove all potential threats. Make sure to get a reputable tool and then scan the machine.

To be sure that program can remove Stun ransomware, reboot the machine in Safe Mode and scan the system then. This way the anti-malware program can perform virus termination without interruption. Use FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes for this job.