Weon ransomware (virus) - Recovery Instructions Included
Weon virus Removal Guide
What is Weon ransomware?
Weon ransomware is a dangerous file-locking virus that can result in permanent damage
Weon ransomware is part of the Djvu ransomware family, which includes over 600 variants. These infections can be difficult to detect because they are spread by various types of malware[1] such as trojans and information stealers. When a user opens a malicious file attachment, downloads a pirated package, or runs a tool that deploys the malware, the infection process is typically stealthy and quick.
When the Weon file virus infects a computer, it can be invasive and destructive, though it may try to hide these issues by displaying other pop-ups. As a result, the user is frequently unaware until their data is locked and labeled with the .weon extension. This virus encodes commonly used files using strong encryption[2] techniques. A ransom note is then left behind, demanding payment from the virus's creators in exchange for an alleged decryption[3] tool. However, they rarely keep this promise, as they frequently vanish instead of providing the victim with a useful tool.
| NAME | Weon |
| TYPE | Cryptovirus, file-locker |
| MALWARE FAMILY | Djvu ransomware |
| FILE EXTENSION | .weon |
| RANSOM NOTE | _readme.txt |
| RANSOM AMOUNT | $490/$980 |
| CONTACT MAILS | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| DISTRIBUTION | Malicious files can be shared via email, as well as through various online platforms that may present security risks or engage in pirating activities |
| REMOVAL | Use specialized tools that are designed to remove threats and protect against security breaches |
| SYSTEM FIX | If the infection has caused damage to parts of your machine, you can use FortectIntego to repair any issues with the system that have been caused by the corruption. |
Djvu ransomware family
The creators of the Djvu ransomware family use a variety of malware to spread their payload. This could include distributing pirated software or sending malicious file attachments. Weon uses malware like Vidar and RedLine to silently inject the payload into a system, triggering the encryption process.
Individuals can become infected with the Weon ransomware virus when they unknowingly download files from torrent sites or open malicious file attachments in emails. To avoid infection, it is critical to exercise caution and verify the integrity of these files before downloading them.
In addition to widespread distribution, the Djvu ransomware has improved its encryption capabilities. The most recent versions include weekly updates and use more robust encryption methods. Furthermore, the virus uses unique online IDs for each affected device, which differs from previous versions' offline keys, which were uniform for all devices encrypted by a specific version. Although the use of offline keys in the Djvu virus is becoming less common, attempts to decrypt such files may still be made.
The ransom note
Weon ransomware generates a _readme.txt ransom note on the victim's device:
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-OKSOfVy04R
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:
support@freshmail.topReserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelp@airmail.ccYour personal ID:
–
Removing the malicious files
Weon ransomware is a serious and persistent threat that can cause significant damage. It is critical to remove the virus in order to regain control of your machine. A system scan with a reputable threat detection tool, such as SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes, is one effective method. These tools are intended to detect malicious files as well as any hidden components associated with the Weon virus or other malware.
The Weon file virus can be removed once it is detected and identified as potentially harmful during a system scan. It is important to note, however, that removing the virus does not automatically decrypt your files or recover data lost as a result of the infection. The primary goal of virus removal is to prevent further harm.
Without removal, the virus may continue to operate on your computer, encrypting any new files it discovers and re-encrypting previously encrypted files, causing irreversible damage. It is critical to act quickly and remove the threat as soon as possible in order to avoid further complications and protect your system.
The decryption of Djvu virus
In the event of a Djvu ransomware variant infecting your computer, you may have the option to utilize the Emsisoft decryptor for Djvu/STOP in an attempt to recover your data. However, it is important to understand that this tool may not be universally effective. It can only be employed if the malware utilized an offline ID to lock your data, indicating a failure to establish communication with its remote servers.
Even if your case satisfies this condition, it relies on another victim paying the criminals, acquiring the offline key, and sharing it with the security researchers at Emsisoft. Consequently, immediate restoration of your encrypted files may not be possible. If the decryptor identifies that your data was locked with an offline ID but cannot currently be recovered, it is advisable to attempt the process again later. To utilize the decryptor, you will also be required to upload a pair of files – one encrypted and one uncorrupted – to the servers of the company.
- 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:
- “Decrypted!” will be shown under files that were decrypted successfully – they are now usable again.
- “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.
- “This ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible” – you are unable to decrypt files with this tool.
System file recovery
When malware infects a computer, it can cause various disruptions to the system's normal functioning. This includes modifying the Windows registry database, compromising essential bootup and other critical sections, deleting or corrupting DLL files, and more. If malware damages a system file, traditional antivirus software may not be able to restore it, resulting in a compromised system state. This can lead to performance issues, instability, and usability problems, often necessitating a complete reinstallation of the Windows operating system.
To tackle these challenges, we recommend utilizing FortectIntego, an exceptional and patented repair technology. This application is designed not only to address malware-related issues but also to resolve various Windows-related problems unrelated to malware infections. It can effectively fix Blue Screen errors, system freezes, registry errors, and damaged DLLs, providing comprehensive support for system repair and optimization.
Getting rid of Weon virus. Follow these steps
Important steps to take before you begin malware removal
File encryption and ransomware infection are two independent processes (although the latter would not be possible without the former). However, it is important to understand that malware performs various changes within a Windows operating system, fundamentally changing the way it works.
IMPORTANT for those without backups! →
If you attempt to use security or recovery software immediately, you might permanently damage your files, and even a working decryptor then would not be able to save them.
Before you proceed with the removal instructions below, you should copy the encrypted files onto a separate medium, such as USB flash drive or SSD, and then disconnect them from your computer. Encrypted data does not hold any malicious code, so it is safe to transfer to other devices.
The instructions below might initially seem overwhelming and complicated, but they are not difficult to understand as long as you follow each step in the appropriate order. This comprehensive free guide will help you to handle the malware removal and data recovery process correctly.
If you have any questions, comments, or are having troubles with following the instructions, please do not hesitate to contact us via the Ask Us section.
IMPORTANT! →
It is vital to eliminate malware infection from the computer fully before starting the data recovery process, otherwise ransomware might re-encrypt retrieved files from backups repeatedly.
Restore Windows "hosts" file to its original state
Some ransomware might modify Windows hosts file in order to prevent users from accessing certain websites online. For example, Djvu ransomware variants add dozens of entries containing URLs of security-related websites, such as 2-spyware.com. Each of the entries means that users will not be able to access the listed web addresses and will receive an error instead.
Here's an example of “hosts” file entries that were injected by ransomware:
In order to restore your ability to access all websites without restrictions, you should either delete the file (Windows will automatically recreate it) or remove all the malware-created entries. If you have never touched the “hosts” file before, you should simply delete it by marking it and pressing Shift + Del on your keyboard. For that, navigate to the following location:
C:\\Windows\\System32\\drivers\\etc\\
Restore files using data recovery software
Since many users do not prepare proper data backups prior to being attacked by ransomware, they might often lose access to their files permanently. Paying criminals is also very risky, as they might not fulfill the promises and never send back the required decryption tool.
While this might sound terrible, not all is lost – data recovery software might be able to help you in some situations (it highly depends on the encryption algorithm used, whether ransomware managed to complete the programmed tasks, etc.). Since there are thousands of different ransomware strains, it is immediately impossible to tell whether third-party software will work for you.
Therefore, we suggest trying regardless of which ransomware attacked your computer. Before you begin, several pointers are important while dealing with this situation:
- Since the encrypted data on your computer might permanently be damaged by security or data recovery software, you should first make backups of it – use a USB flash drive or another storage.
- Only attempt to recover your files using this method after you perform a scan with anti-malware software.
Install data recovery software
- Download Data Recovery Pro.
- Double-click the installer to launch it.
- Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
- As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
- Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
- Press Next.
- At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
- Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
- You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
- Press Recover to retrieve your files.
Create data backups to avoid file loss in the future
One of the many countermeasures for home users against ransomware is data backups. Even if your Windows get corrupted, you can reinstall everything from scratch and retrieve files from backups with minimal losses overall. Most importantly, you would not have to pay cybercriminals and risk your money as well.
Therefore, if you have already dealt with a ransomware attack, we strongly advise you to prepare backups for future use. There are two options available to you:
- Backup on a physical external drive, such as a USB flash drive or external HDD.
- Use cloud storage services.
The first method is not that convenient, however, as backups need to constantly be updated manually – although it is very reliable. Therefore, we highly advise choosing cloud storage instead – it is easy to set up and efficient to sustain. The problem with it is that storage space is limited unless you want to pay for the subscription.
Using Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is a built-in tool that comes with every modern Windows version. By default, you get 5 GB of storage that you can use for free. You can increase that storage space, but for a price. Here's how to setup backups for OneDrive:
- Click on the OneDrive icon within your system tray.
- Select Help & Settings > Settings.
- If you don't see your email under the Account tab, you should click Add an account and proceed with the on-screen instructions to set yourself up.
- Once done, move to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
- Select Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, or a combination of whichever folders you want to backup.
- Press Start backup.
After this, all the files that are imported into the above-mentioned folders will be automatically backed for you. If you want to add other folders or files, you have to do that manually. For that, open File Explorer by pressing Win + E on your keyboard, and then click on the OneDrive icon. You should drag and drop folders you want to backup (or you can use Copy/Paste as well).
Using Google Drive
Google Drive is another great solution for free backups. The good news is that you get as much as 15GB for free by choosing this storage. There are also paid versions available, with significantly more storage to choose from.
You can access Google Drive via the web browser or use a desktop app you can download on the official website. If you want your files to be synced automatically, you will have to download the app, however.
- Download the Google Drive app installer and click on it.
- Wait a few seconds for it to be installed.
- Now click the arrow within your system tray – you should see Google Drive icon there, click it once.
- Click Get Started.
- Enter all the required information – your email/phone, and password.
- Now pick what you want to sync and backup. You can click on Choose Folder to add additional folders to the list.
- Once done, pick Next.
- Now you can select to sync items to be visible on your computer.
- Finally, press Start and wait till the sync is complete. Your files are now being backed up.
Report the incident to your local authorities
Ransomware is a huge business that is highly illegal, and authorities are very involved in catching malware operators. To have increased chances of identifying the culprits, the agencies need information. Therefore, by reporting the crime, you could help with stopping the cybercriminal activities and catching the threat actors. Make sure you include all the possible details, including how did you notice the attack, when it happened, etc. Additionally, providing documents such as ransom notes, examples of encrypted files, or malware executables would also be beneficial.
Law enforcement agencies typically deal with online fraud and cybercrime, although it depends on where you live. Here is the list of local authority groups that handle incidents like ransomware attacks, sorted by country:
- USA – Internet Crime Complaint Center IC3
- United Kingdom – ActionFraud
- Canada – Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Australia – ScamWatch
- New Zealand – ConsumerProtection
- Germany – Polizei
- France – Ministère de l'Intérieur
If your country is not listed above, you should contact the local police department or communications center.
Manual removal using Safe Mode
Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.
Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking
Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment.
Windows 7 / Vista / XP
- Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Windows 10 / Windows 8
- Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
- Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
- On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
- Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
- Click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Go to Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Press Restart.
- Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes
Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Click on More details.
- Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
- Right-click and select Open file location.
- Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
- Delete the contents of the malicious folder.
Step 3. Check program Startup
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Go to Startup tab.
- Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
Step 4. Delete virus files
Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:
- Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
- Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:
Temporary Internet Files
Downloads
Recycle Bin
Temporary files - Pick Clean up system files.
- You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):
%AppData%
%LocalAppData%
%ProgramData%
%WinDir%
After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.
How to prevent from getting ransomware
Do not let government spy on you
The government has many issues in regards to tracking users' data and spying on citizens, so you should take this into consideration and learn more about shady information gathering practices. Avoid any unwanted government tracking or spying by going totally anonymous on the internet.
You can choose a different location when you go online and access any material you want without particular content restrictions. You can easily enjoy internet connection without any risks of being hacked by using Private Internet Access VPN.
Control the information that can be accessed by government any other unwanted party and surf online without being spied on. Even if you are not involved in illegal activities or trust your selection of services, platforms, be suspicious for your own security and take precautionary measures by using the VPN service.
Backup files for the later use, in case of the malware attack
Computer users can suffer from data losses due to cyber infections or their own faulty doings. Ransomware can encrypt and hold files hostage, while unforeseen power cuts might cause a loss of important documents. If you have proper up-to-date backups, you can easily recover after such an incident and get back to work. It is also equally important to update backups on a regular basis so that the newest information remains intact – you can set this process to be performed automatically.
When you have the previous version of every important document or project you can avoid frustration and breakdowns. It comes in handy when malware strikes out of nowhere. Use Data Recovery Pro for the data restoration process.
If this free guide helped you and you are satisfied with our service, please consider making a donation to keep this service alive. Even a smallest amount will be appreciated.
- ^ Malware | What is Malware & How to Stay Protected from Malware Attacks. Paloaltonetworks. Cyber Threat Analysis.
- ^ Encryption. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
- ^ What is Decryption?. Intellipaat. Cybersecurity Blog.