How to remove WhiteRose ransomware

WhiteRose ransomware is a dangerous program using AES cryptography to encrypt target files

WhiteRose ransomware is a crypto-virus that uses AES encryption algorithm^[1] to lock target files and make them inaccessible. To mark these files, it appends [random text]_ENCRYPTED_BY.WHITEROSE file extension and drops a ransom note named HOW-the TO-the RECOVERY-files.txt. This txt document includes the picture of rose and data recovery instructions claiming that the victim has to pay a ransom to recover his/hers locked files. Ransomware is very similar and is believed to belong to the same group of hackers as Zenis ransomware and BlackRuby, so there is no legitimate decrypter for WhiteRose ransomware.

WhiteRose virus typically infiltrates users machines in deceptive ways – via phishing emails or malicious websites. As soon as ransomware's code is executed, it scans the machine and looks for files to encrypt. It will lock up a variety of different files, including .7zip, .dat, .mp3, .doc, .xml, .txt, .pdf and many others. However, the malware will skip files in the following locations: Windows, Program Files, Microsoft and Recycle Bin.

Soon after the encryption is complete, the virus will modify names of infected files. For example, the file, which before infection used to be called picture.jpg will be turned into r4lK6pWmzqYe_ENCRYPTED_BY.WHITEROSE. Once the targeted files are locked, the ransom note is dropped into every encrypted data folder. 

We must admit that the ransom note of WhiteRose ransomware stands out among thousands of other messages provided by cybercriminals. The hacker wrote a whole story of himself, expressed his passion for writing and willingness to plant a garden of white roses and give gifts to people all over the world. Indeed, this gift is a ransomware virus.

I think of days and write at night : the story, poem, code, exploit or the accumulation of the number of white roses sold and I say to myself that the wealth is having different friends of different races, languages, habits and religions, Not only being in a fairly stylish garden with full of original white roses.
Today, I think deeply about the decision that has involved my mind for several weeks. A decision to freedom and at the worth of unity, intimacy, joy and love and is the decision to release white roses and to give gifts to all peoples of the world.

Never mind the fact that hacker is poetic – victims of ransomware still are asked to pay a ransom in order to get back access to their files. A developer of WhiteRose virus informs that people have to send their unique ID number provided in the TXT file and one of the encrypted files via Tox.^[2] However, if victims to do not receive an answer within 24 hours, they have to send the same content to the WhiteRose@Torbox3uiot6wchz.onion.

Users are asked to provide personal ID and include two personal files. According to cybercrooks, this action is required to prove victims that decryption is possible.Then, cybercriminals should respond and inform the user about the size of the payment. As soon as the ransom is paid, victims should receive a WhiteRose Decryptor and a private decryption key. 

Finally, the virus will delete shadow volume copies (an automated backup system in Windows), disable Startup Repair function and erase event logs.^[3] Soon after that, WhiteRose finishes its malicious process by deleting itself from the system entirely.

Ransomware viruses are used for illegal money-making activities. Therefore, as soon as criminals receive the money, they might disappear and leave you with a bigger money loss. Hence, it’s recommended to remove WhiteRose ransomware from the computer and look up for alternative recovery solutions.

WhiteRose ransomware removal has to be performed with reputable anti-malware software. This malicious program can install countless malicious files and affect critical system files. Hence, manual termination might be dangerous for the computer. You might accidentally delete or corrupt important files.

The virus might also modify Windows registry or create new entries in order to boot with system startup and perform malicious activities. Hence, it’s important to fix all these changes to make the system safe and properly working.

For this reason, we recommend using FortectIntego for cleaning malware and fixing its damage because this program has a double functionality. As soon as it deleted the virus, it restores and repairs registry entries and other system-related problems.

Security specialists from virukset.fi^[4] remind that WhiteRose virus removal does not bring back encrypted files. You will need to use backups for full recovery. Alternatively, you can contact security expert Michael Gillespie^[5] for free file decryption. Also, you can also try asking Dr.Web for help; however, the service is paid.

If none of the mentioned file decryption methods suit you, you can try alternative third-party software. You will find all descriptions and download links below this post.

Dissemination methods of the file-encrypting malware

It’s unknown how this specific ransomware is spread and installed on Windows computers. However, specialists note that these type of cyber threats spread using similar methods, such as:

• malicious spam email attachments;^[6]
• fake software updates;
• bogus security software or illegal programs;
• exploit kits;
• malvertising;
• drive-by downloads;
• insecure RDP services.

Thus, it is not enough to install anti-virus program to avoid ransomware attacks. Of course, it’s an important security measure, but you have to remember that any program can protect you 100%. You have to follow general security tips: avoid downloading questionable software, clicking suspicious ads and keeping software updated.

Remove White Rose ransomware virus

WhiteRose removal can only be performed by using professional security software (we suggest using robust tools like FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. Ransomware viruses are complicated and cannot be exterminated manually, unless you are an IT professional. Thus, don't even try it, or you might damage system files and damage the machine further.

However, if you experienced some problems and cannot remove WhiteRose because malware blocks security programs, follow the steps below. Our specialists are willing to help you to disable the virus and run automatic elimination.

As soon as you get rid of WhiteRose virus, you can start data recovery procedure. If you attempt to reclaim your files before virus elimination, all the data will be encrypted once again.