How to remove Tocue ransomware

Tocue ransomware – a currently undecryptable version of Djvu/STOP

Tocue ransomware is a currently undecryptable file-locking malware that originates from the Djvu and STOP ransomware families. It has been founded by Michael Gillespie^[1] and other security researchers in the second half of July. Users have also been reporting Tocue virus and its malicious activities.^[2] Some student has reported being hopeless as the ransomware managed to lock up all of his university data, including important projects. As you can see, dealing with this ransomware is not fun, especially if you do not have your data backed up. Your files will end up with the .tocue extension and you will be provided with specific ransom urges ($980 or $490) via the _readme.txt message.

Tocue ransomware has been detected malicious by 44 engine according to VirusTotal.^[3] The malware has earned detection names such as TR/Crypt.ZPACK.zuood, Trojan.GenericKD.41485580, Malware@#2k3081axev4es, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.bt, Trojan.MalPack.GS, RDN/Generic.dx, Trojan.GenericKD.41485580 (B), and many others.

.tocue files virus places the same ransom message and demands the exact price as its sibling. According to the crooks, the ransom price is $490 from the start but it will supposedly rise up to $980 if no contact is made in a three day time period. This is a way to encourage users to make up their minds faster and complete the transferring process:

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:
hxxps://we.tl/t-sdfm0uGug2
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:
gorentos@bitmessage.ch
 
Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
gorentos2@firemail.cc
 
Our Telegram account:
@datarestore
Mark Data Restore
 
Your personal ID:
–

However, these ransom demands by Tocue ransomware still urge for a big price even with the 50% discount so it is up to you to choose if your files are worth paying this type of price. Besides, promises to send a decryption tool often appear to be just a scam so you are left without both your money and the decryption key for your blocked data.

Talking about Tocue ransomware encryption process, the malware supposedly uses ciphers such as AES and RSA for locking data that is placed on the infected computer system. The files can come in different types of formats, including images, text documents, executables, powerpoint presentations, and similar components. 

Even though Tocue ransomware is currently undecryptable, we still suggest not paying the demanded ransom price to avoid possible monetary losses. You can give the below-placed decryption software a try with which you might have the ability to restore some locked data. Additionally, be careful in the future and always back up your data.

Note that before you opt for the recovery process, you need to remove Tocue ransomware first. In order to lengthen the process for you, we suggest using a tool such as FortectIntego for running full computer check-ups. It is very important to clean location such as the Registry and Task Manager from malicious entries and processes.

Besides, you should hurry up with Tocue ransomware removal as the malware might be capable of injecting the AZORult trojan into the infected system as other STOP ransomware versions were spot doing this. Also, boot your computer in Safe Mode to prevent malicious processes. You can find the instructions at the end of this article.

Distribution places of ransomware infections

Ransomware is mostly found in spam messages that have infected attachments clipped to them or malicious links inserted inside. If you open the suspicious attachment or link, you will probably launch the malicious payload straight onto your computer. This is one of the main reasons why you have to carefully manage all received messages.

Sadly, this is just one from several spreading techniques that are promoted by ransomware developers. However, email spam is the number one when other malware distribution sources include:

• Exploit kits;
• Piracy networks;
• Infected equipment;
• Legitimate-looking processes;
• Etc.

One of the most important things to do is to ensure your online safety regularly. You need to take actions on your own such as keeping a distance from third-party networks, carefully choosing downloading sources, etc. However, never forget automatical protection. This requires downloading and regularly updating trustworthy anti-malware software.

Tocue ransomware removal guidelines for victims

If you appeared to be a victim of Tocue virus, you need to take immediate actions towards the elimination of this malware. This process should be carried out only automatically as by performing manual removal you might make damaging mistakes or the task might be even not possible to carry out without the help of reputable software.

Tocue ransomware removal will be easier to complete if you use reliable anti-malware such as FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. These programs will initiate full system check-ups that will show all locations where malware and all additional components have been hiding. You need to clean all infected directories, otherwise, the ransomware might reboot itself easily.

After you remove Tocue ransomware and your machine is free from malicious threats, you can continue with data recovery software that is provided below. According to cybersecurity specialists from NoVirus.uk,^[4] to protect yourself from similar future attacks, you should get a remote drive and keep all important documents and files in it.