How to remove MarraCrypt ransomware

MarraCrypt ransomware is a file locking malware that spreads like a worm

MarraCrypt ransomware is crypto-malware that was developed in order to make users pay ransom after locking personal files on the host computer. First spotted by dnwls0719 cybersecurity researcher in late February 2020,^[1] this virus seems to be a variant of Hermes and HildaCrypt families. Unlike many other crypto-lockers, however, MarraCrypt virus spreads like a worm^[2] via flash drives, logical drives, and other external devices.

Once inside the system, the MarraCrypt virus uses AES + RSA cipher to encrypt personal files and appends .MARRA extension to each. The malware also drops a ransom note MARRACRYPT_INFORMATION.HTML in which victims are prompted to contact the attackers via newpatek@cock.li or onmywrist@cock.li emails and pay the ransom for MarraCrypt ransomware decryptor using Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency.

While MarraCrypt ransomware authors propagate malware as a worm via infected external drives or malware that is already present on the system, that does not mean that you can not get infected with it in other ways. Hackers often change their distribution tactics in order to infect as many victims around the world as possible. Some of the most popular distribution methods include:

• Spam email attachments and embedded hyperlinks
• Exploit kits in conjunction with software vulnerabilities^[3]
• Software cracks/keygens/loaders and repacked or pirated application installers
• Poorly protected Remote Desktop (RDP) connections
• Fake updates or other scams found on malicious sites, etc.

Regardless of how MarraCrypt virus gains access, however, the result is always the same – all the pictures, videos, music, databases, MS Office documents, and other files get encrypted so that the attackers would have the reason to ask for money. This illegal business has become extremely lucrative, and security researchers are observing more new ransomware variants (Rezm, Tsar), as well as new families (PwndLocker, SepSys) – just like MarraCrypt ransomware is.

However, before scanning the machine for files to encrypt, MarraCrypt ransomware first performs multiple preparations within Windows system. For example, it deletes Shadow Volume Copies to prevent an easy recovery, modifies Windows registry key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\ Windows\ CurrentVersion\Run\ to retain persistence, etc.

In some cases, these changes can hinder MarraCrypt ransomware removal or even corrupt vital Windows system files. To bypass this, you can access Safe Mode with Networking and fix virus damage with tools like FortectIntego.

Once the computer is modified and vital recovery systems disabled – this is typical ransomware behavior – MarraCrypt ransomware begins to look for data to encrypt. Typically, the most commonly-used file types are targeted, such as .doc, .zip, .mp4, .jpg, .pdf, and others. After this process, users can see each of the files marked with [newpatek@cock.li].MARRA appendix.

MarraCrypt ransomware then presents a message from the attackers in the HTML format – it can be opened via any browser. It reads:

MARRACRYPT 1.0 RANSOMWARE

Your files has been encrypted using RSA-4096 algorithm with unique public-key stored on your PC.
There is only one way to get your files back: contact with us, pay, and get decryptor software.
We accept Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies, you can find exchangers on bestbitcoinexchange.io
You have unique idkey (in a yellow frame), write it in letter when contact with us.
Also you can decrypt 2 files as a test, its a guarantee we can decrypt your files.

!!! IDKEY !!!
:: CONTACT INFORMATION ::

E-mail #1: newpatek@cock.li
E-mail #2: onmywrist@cock.li

While the attackers do not mention what the size of the ransom is, paying them is highly discouraged by security researchers, as MarraCrypt virus authors can simply ignore you after. Besides, this action will only fuel criminals to infect more victims and develop new versions of malware. Despite this, it is understandable that some users might not have another choice and risk their money to retrieve the MarraCrypt ransomware decryption tool.

However, before you take on such dangerous tasks, we suggest you try alternative methods first. Before that, you have to remove MarraCrypt ransomware infection from your system, as, if you succeed in file recovery, all of the data will be encrypted once again. It is also important to note that you should make a copy of the encrypted data before you try recovery software listed below, as such tries might permanently corrupt your files otherwise.

Best ransomware recovery method – avoiding the infection

There are many things that impact how the situation will turn out in your particular case when it comes to ransomware infection. For example, malware might fail to encrypt all files, or bug out when trying to delete Shadow Volume Copies, making a recovery so much easier. Additionally, you can almost completely negate the negative effects of ransomware infection by holding backups of your most important files.

However, keep in mind that, even if you do have backups, the threat might also use additional modules that steal sensitive information or proliferate other malware. Personal information that you might input via your keyboard on online banking or other websites might be harvested and sold on the dark web, increasing profits for the attackers.

Therefore, the best defense against ransomware is the prevention of its infiltration in the first place, and there are many things you can do to reduce the risk. While comprehensive security software is a good start, it is definitely not enough to prevent malicious files from accessing your system.

For example, you should always make sure that your Windows/installed programs are running the latest versions, never download software cracks/pirated installers, enable ad-block and Firewall, never reuse passwords, disallow email attachments to run macros, etc. In other words, be more careful when browsing the web, accessing your emails, or doing practically anything on your computer.

MarraCrypt ransomware removal steps

Many ransomware victims mistakenly believe that they can regain access to their files as soon as MarraCrypt ransomware removal is executed. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as there are multiple anti-malware programs that can successfully detect and get rid of the infection. For example, MarraCrypt virus executable is detected by 55 different AV applications under the following names:^[4]

• Trojan.GenericKD.33362147
• Generic.ml
• Trojan:Win32/Occamy.C
• Trojan.Win32.MALREP.THBBDBO
• Heuristic
• Trojan.MSIL.DOTHETUK.wds, etc.

Along with the main executable, anti-malware tools can ensure that all the malicious files and other infections are eliminated from your system – so install one of the tools and perform a full system scan (in Safe Mode if required). As mentioned, this will remove MarraCrypt ransomware but will not restore the encrypted data.

If you had no backups, you could rely on, make a copy of all the encrypted files and then apply the methods we provide below. Keep in mind that they have a low success rate, and paying the attackers might be your only choice at saving your data.