How to remove XD ransomware

XD ransomware is malware developed by hackers and designed to extort money from victims 

XD ransomware is a file locking virus^[1] that was recently spotted in by security researchers. Not much is known about this threat, however, experts claim that is most likely a variant of Rektware ransomware. Malware uses AES encryption algorithm to lock up data and appends .XD file extension, rendering files useless. To retrieve the access to personal data, victims have to pay ransom in Bitcoin cryptocurrency. However, it is not known if hackers provide users with any information at all, as no examples of ransom note are currently available (typically, the crypto locker drops a ransom note into every folder in .txt, or .html format, occasionally changing desktop wallpaper as well). Nevertheless, it is known for sure that XD ransomware is not yet decryptable and security experts received only a few samples so far.

XD ransomware virus comes into users' machines in various ways, including spam emails, unprotected RDP, as a drive-by download, via file-sharing sites, using exploit kits and similar. In most cases, victims are unaware of these distribution methods and end up infecting their devices unknowingly.

XD virus can lock a video, audio, image, picture, database and all other personal files located on the infected device. Thus, a file called picture.jpg is turned to picture.jpg.xd after the infection. 

This file-encrypting virus can affect data in various formats, and the most common ones affected are these:

.avi, .bmp, .csv, .doc, .docx, .exe, .flv, .gif, .ini, .jpg, .m4a, .mkv, .mp3, .mp4,. odp, .ods, .odt, .one,  .ots, .pdf, .png, .pps, .ppt, .pptx, .rtf, .swf, .vssx, .wav, .xls, .xlsx.

While the ransom size XD ransomware creators ask for is unknown, researchers^[2] advise not paying the ransom because it may lead to permanent money loss, in addition to unusable files. Thus, rather use other methods for file recovery.

If you need to recover data affected by XD ransomware, you need to clean the system, get rid of this virus and then replace encoded data with original files from the backup. Unfortunately, if you have no backups, data recovery is not that simple. Certain conditions need to be met in order for the third-party software to work. We explain the process in detailed instructions below.

When it comes to XD ransomware removal, it is important to know that various antivirus programs detect^[3] Ransomware.exe file as malicious. The payload can be identified under the following names:

• HEUR/AGEN.1033959;
• Win32:Malware-gen;
• Ransom.Rektware;
• Artemis!7F29DFC164EF;
• Win32/Trojan.Ransom.a84;
• Riskware/Dloader;
• Generic.Ransom.KillRabit.1F03A3BF (B);
• etc.

As we already mentioned, the cybersecurity threat is related to Rektware ransomware, but some researchers believe it might be a variant of KillRabbit. In that case, ransom demands might be as low as $100. However, because XD ransomware does not provide a ransom note, it is highly likely that the threat is related to Rektware, as it was not a fully developed virus. It is possible that XD ransomware will show more distinct characteristics in time. 

To remove XD ransomware from your computer, you need to use a reliable source and get anti-malware software like FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. Manual elimination is not possible for regular users, and virus removal should be taken care of accordingly.

Spam emails are the main source of ransomware infections

Ransomware can spread by breaking through insecure RDP configuration or using different exploit kits. But the most common method to spread ransomware is spam email attachments or links that contain a malicious payload.

Spam emails look safe and legitimate because hackers misuse names of well-known companies or suppliers. In most cases, they use a similar looking email address and name the malicious attachment as “Invoice,” “Order confirmation,” or similar.

Therefore, it is vital to recognize a phishing email before taking any actions. If you are in doubt – contact the company that is writing you (not via “Reply” button, but instead use appropriate email address), and ask if the message is legitimate. Under no circumstances allow the document to run Macro function, as it is will infect your computer with malware.

Additionally, patching software is as necessary as using powerful security software, because developers often patch vulnerabilities with software updates. 

Successful XD ransomware elimination requires reputable anti-malware 

To remove XD ransomware safely, you should think about proper tools that you trustworthy. Using an anti-malware program is the best method because it scans the system and indicates what cyber threats you have on the system. Tools like FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner and MalwarebytesMalwarebytes are perfect for the job.

Remember to double-check the cleanliness of the system after XD ransomware removal, before you attempt data recovery. Any external device plugged-in on the compromised system can be affected by the virus. Terminate the cyber infection, clean the system thoroughly, and use a backup to restore encoded files. Alternatively, you can make use of third-party software we recommend below.