How to remove Vgkf virus

Vgkf virus is the ransomware that encodes files to demand large sums in Bitcoin cryptocurrency

Vgkf ransomware is a cryptovirus that belongs to a malware family known as Djvu ransomware. The version is coming after more than 360 variants on the list. This malware encrypts all the important files on a Windows computer, appends them with .vgkf extension, and restricts access to them.

Once encryption^[1] is done and these files get locked, the ransom message gets dropped in those folders with encoded files and on the desktop. In the ransom note _readme.txt, cybercriminals behind the attack explain that the only way to recover data is by paying ransom in Bitcoin. The sum can vary, depending on how soon victims contact the developers because the discount of 50% is offered within the first 72 hours since the locking.

While it is true that the locked files require a unique decryption key to unlock them, experts^[2] recommend not paying the ransom, as cybercriminals might not keep their promises, resulting in financial losses. In this article, we will explain how to get rid of malware and use alternative methods for data recovery. Vgkf file virus belongs to the family that is not worthy of users' trust, so it is not safe to even contact criminals at this instance. 

The virus attacks Windows computers by using various infiltration methods. More common techniques include email spam, pirating platforms, malicious files, and even other threats like trojans. Once inside, it uses an encryption algorithm to lock up all documents, archives, videos, music, and other files. After that, ransomware delivers a ransom note text file, which includes instructions on how to recover the encrypted data.

The _readme.txt reads:

ATTENTION!

Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, 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-ZYodHvPkHI
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:
manager@mailtemp.ch

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
helprestoremanager@airmail.cc

According to the virus authors, victims need to contact them via manager@mailtemp.ch and helprestoremanager@airmail.cc email and provide their personal ID. Once that is done, users should receive further instructions to proceed with the payment, provided in Bitcoin cryptocurrency. Nonetheless, we do not recommend contacting the attackers because they might not deliver the required decryption tool. Check out the alternative methods we provide below instead.

Ransomware more in detail

Vgkf file virus is classified as ransomware. These threats are known for accessing user machines without permission and encrypting all files on them. This way, cybercriminals behind the attack can ask for a ransom payment in return for a unique key. The infiltration is not noticed when the virus spreads in the first place due to stealthy methods.

The malware encrypts all files with the help of a powerful encryption algorithm and appends .vgkf extension to each of them. For example, a file “picture.jpg” is turned into a “picture.jpg.vgkf,” making suchlike data unusable. other damage includes disabled programs, system functions, alterations to system data. Once encryption is finished, the virus drops a ransom note, which is placed on the desktop and/or other locations within the computer.

In the note, the attackers write that they are willing to provide the decryption tool for a particular sum of money, to be paid in bitcoin cryptocurrency. However, this file recovery method is only possible when the decryption tool is obtained from criminals or developed by researchers. Paying is not recommended and the official decryption tool from experts is not yet released.

This virus derives from a well-known family Djvu ransomware, which was first spotted in 2018 and made headlines with attacks and widespread campaigns starting in 2019. The threat family received many changes and since August 2019 is undecryptable due to advanced encryption methods used. Since then family released multiple variants, including Miia, Loov, Xcmb. In this article, we will provide alternative methods for .vgkf file recovery and safe ways of deleting the infection from a Windows computer.

Get rid of the infection properly before anything else

Vgkf file virus is affecting the machine significantly. Malware like this comes in all shapes and sizes, but one thing they have in common is that you won't be able to see them coming. A virus will usually get its malicious code attached as an attachment or included within pirating packages. It may try injecting payload into your NBA game cheat or pirated versions of Adobe products. These methods are common for STOP/Djvu virus family members.

The machine gets infected pretty quickly after the file drop and once a computer is infected with malware, its system is changed to operate differently. For example, an infection can alter the Windows registry database, damage vital bootup, and other sections, delete or corrupt DLL files, etc.

You need to remove the Vgkf virus and clear the machine. Removing the ransomware is important and tools like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes that are based on detection^[3] of the malware are crucial. Do not skip this step. However, removing infection is not the only step and it is not recovering encoded files.

Once a system file is damaged by malware, antivirus software is not capable of doing anything about it, leaving it just the way it is. Consequently, users might experience performance, stability, and usability issues, to the point where a full Windows reinstallation is required.

Therefore, we highly recommend using a one-of-a-kind, patented technology of FortectIntego repair. Not only can it fix virus damage after the infection, but it is also capable of removing malware that has already broken into the system thanks to several engines used by the program. Besides, the application is also capable of fixing various Windows-related issues that are not caused by malware infections, for example, Blue Screen errors, freezes, registry errors, damaged DLLs, etc.

• Download the application by clicking on the link above
• Click on the ReimageRepair.exe
  
• If User Account Control (UAC) shows up, select Yes
• Press Install and wait till the program finishes the installation process
• The analysis of your machine will begin immediately
• Once complete, check the results – they will be listed in the Summary
• You can now click on each of the issues and fix them manually
• If you see many problems that you find difficult to fix, we recommend you purchase the license and fix them automatically.

Decryption options for Djvu ransomware versions

There are two ways that the Vgkf virus uses during encryption. Offline and online IDs determine the possibility of decryption. Offline keys are the same for the machines affected by the same variant. It provides the option to recover files with one decryption key. That need to be obtained from criminals by obstruction or payment.

Online keys are uniquely formed for each individual machine that gets encrypted. It is made once the encryption is started and each victim get one and only ID that is needed later on when the decryption of files. Once the Vgkf file virus encrypts files there are limited options for recovery.

If your computer got infected with one of the Djvu variants, you should try using Emsisoft decryptor for Djvu/STOP. It is important to mention that this tool will not work for everyone – it only works if data was locked with an offline ID due to malware failing to communicate with its remote servers.

Even if your case meets this condition, somebody from the victims has to pay criminals, retrieve an offline key, and then share it with security researchers at Emsisoft. As a result, you might not be able to restore the encrypted files immediately. Thus, if the decryptor says your data was locked with an offline ID but cannot be recovered currently, you should try later. You also need to upload a set of files – one encrypted and a healthy one to the company's servers before you proceed.

• Download the app from the official Emsisoft website.
• After pressing Download button, a small pop-up at the bottom, titled decrypt_STOPDjvu.exe should show up – click it.
  
• If User Account Control (UAC) message shows up, press Yes.
• Agree to License Terms by pressing Yes.
  
  
• After Disclaimer shows up, press OK.
• The tool should automatically populate the affected folders, although you can also do it by pressing Add folder at the bottom.
  
• Press Decrypt.
  
  

From here, there are three available outcomes:

1. “Decrypted!” will be shown under files that were decrypted successfully – they are now usable again.
2. “Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID:” means that the keys for this version of the virus have not yet been retrieved, so you should try later.
3. “This ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible” – you are unable to decrypt files with this tool.