Velso ransomware (Virus Removal Instructions) - 2018 update

What is Velso ransomware?

Developers of Velso ransomware continue to target computer users

Velso virus is classified as a file-encrypting infection which locks the access to the most widely used files with AES algorithms and base64 public key. After data encryption, it appends .velso extension to the filenames of the encoded documents. Victims are informed about such actions in get_my_files.txt file and demanded to pay a ransom if they want to decrypt their data.

Recently, experts spotted a new version of Velso ransomware which indicates that ransomware developers are trying to widen their spectre of infections. It is evident that now people should be extremely cautious once the new malware has hit the cyber space.

On the affected computer, Velso virus might install several files that are responsible for performing various malicious activities. Additionally, malware can add new Windows Registry^[1] entries in order to run on system startup. When all preparatory job is finished, malware finally starts data encryption procedure.

As we have already mentioned, malware targets the most popular file types in order to make bigger damage to the victims and have higher chances to receive their ransoms. Unfortunately, Velso attack is a disaster for those who do not have data backups. Malware deletes Shadow Volume Copies and makes data recovery nearly impossible by executing this command:

process call create “cmd.exe /c vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet & bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no & bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures

As soon as Velso finished damaging documents and other important documents, it delivers a ransom note in the text file. The message tells to contact cyber criminals and send their user key:

“Hello. If you want to return files, write me to e-mail MerlinVelso@protonmail.com
Your userkey: {KEY}”

Crooks are supposed to respond with further instructions. However, malware researchers agree that sending an email to the provided address is not recommended. Authors of Velso ransomware will ask to pay the ransom, probably in Bitcoins.

However, there are no guarantees that once you transfer the demanded sum of money, you will get a Velso decryptor. It’s unknown if hackers have this software created at first. Moreover, they might blackmail you into paying more money and never send you a working decryption tool.

Velso ransomware uses .velso extension after data encryption. However, now victims can notice .david suffix as well since the virus has a new version.

For this reason, it's highly recommended cleaning your computer from this cyber threat and not getting into business with criminals. Velso removal requires obtaining reputable malware elimination software and scanning the device with an updated tool.

One of the best tools to remove Velso from the computer is FortectIntego. However, you can use any other professional security software too. If you have any obstacles with the elimination, you should check our prepared instructions below.

The upgraded version of Velso ransomware looks completely different from the original one

In February, experts have detected a new offspring of the malware — .david file extension virus. Since it is still under investigation, it is hard to tell the whether its name will be left like this or changed to David ransomware. However, it is currently named based on the .david file extension it uses.

It is worth to mention that the ransomware uses a completely different ransom note which is quite unusual in the ransomware attacks. Even though the filename is the same, get_my_files.txt, the content differs. Here is the fraction of the ransom-demanding message:

*** ALL YOUR WORK AND PERSONAL FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED ***

To decrypt your files you need to buy the special software
You can find out the details / buy decryptor + key / ask questions by contact for communication (email):
davidfreemon2@aol.com

Victims of .david file extension virus are asked to contact the criminals via davidfreemon2@aol.com email address. Even though it is currently unknown how much money people are demanded to pay for the decryption tool, we do not recommend trusting the criminals. Instead, read more about possible ways to decrypt files without paying the ransom at the end of this article.

Malspam campaigns: primary ransomware attack vector

Even though criminals do not use only one method to distribute their malicious programs, the most successful one is malspam campaigns^[2]. Here is the short analysis on how it works:

1. Crooks launch malware distribution campaign by creating different spam emails with infected attachments;
2. These emails include some important-looking information and urge to open the attached document;
3. When a user what she or he is asked, malware payload is dropped and executed on the system.

It’s highly recommended staying away from the spam folder. Also, you should always take all needed security measures to check if the attached Word or PDF file is actually safe.

Malware research team from virusi.bg^[3] also reminds to be careful with software downloads or updates, eye-catchy or aggressive ads, and other shady corners of the Internet where cyber criminals might be waiting for the victims.

However, don’t forget that no one is 100% protected from the cyber attack. Thus, creating and regularly updating backups is needed.

Antivirus can help to get rid of Velso virus

It is evident that ransomware is a dangerous threat to your computer system. We want to inform you that regular computer users should not struggle to perform Velso removal by themselves. It is a highly complicated procedure which requires knowledge about IT systems.

However, it is easy to get rid of Velso virus by using a professional antivirus software. Our favorite one is FortectIntego and we would suggest you to get it right now. Although, you can use SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, Malwarebytes or another robust malware removal tool as well.

However, ransomware might block your attempts to run security software. In this case, you need to reboot the system to Safe Mode with Networking as shown below. This mode will help to activate antivirus and remove Velso entirely.