XTBL virus: what it is and how to remove it
XTBL virus (otherwise known as the Troldesh Trojan) is ransomware that has been targeting all versions of Windows operating systems. Its aim is to lock down the most of personal victim's files using AES and RSA encryption algorithm.
Facts checked October 7, 2026. Removal steps tested on Windows 11 (26H2) and checked against Microsoft's and the browser makers' current documentation. Sections marked as our earlier report are the original text: they describe the threat as it was then and have not been reviewed since. The 2026 status, the removal steps and the questions are current.
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XTBL virus: summary
| Distribution | Malicious attachments, hacked or compromised sites, illegal software repacks, etc. |
|---|---|
| Name | XTBL virus |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Danger level | High. Can lead to permanent data loss |
| Cypher used | AES-265 and RSA (depending on the version) |
| File extension | .xtbl |
| Removal | Scan the PC with security software to find and remove the malware and anything installed with it. Fortect scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. Remove it nowTo use the full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Fortect. The scan is free. |
Show 14 more facts
| Associated emails | green_ray@india.com, JohnyCryptor@aol.com, ecovector3@aol.com, gerkaman@aol.com, veracrypt@india.com, Okean-1955@india.com, joxe1@cock.li |
|---|---|
| Detection names | No Microsoft detection name is known |
| Ransom note | README.txt; the text is quoted in full below |
| Contact | decode010@gmail.com, decode1110@gmail.com, green_ray@india.com.xtbl |
| Encrypted file extension | .xtbl |
| Decryptor | No free decryptor is known for this variant; check No More Ransom (nomoreransom.org) for updates |
| Damage | Not recorded in the old report |
| Symptoms | Files renamed with a new extension and a ransom note left in folders |
| Evidence | 5 write-ups by security sites; no sample analysed yet |
| Encrypted files | .xtbl |
| Attacker contacts | decode010@gmail.com |
| Free decryptor | No free decryptor is known (checked 7 October 2026) |
| First seen | 2 January 2021 |
| Facts checked | 7 October 2026 |
- File extension:
.xtbl - Note file:
README.txt - Contact:
decode010@gmail.com
From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since
More from our earlier report on XTBL virus
- Perform a full system scan with powerful anti-malware software, such as
- Some Windows functions might break after the infection is eliminate or the system might begin crashing constantly.
- You may later try to restore your files using data recovery tools, such as PhotoRec , R-Studio or Kaspersky virus-fighting utilities.
How XTBL virus behaves
From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since
XTBL virus is a ransomware that is a version of Scarab ransomware virus
XTBL virus (otherwise known as the Troldesh Trojan) is ransomware that has been targeting all versions of Windows operating systems.
Its aim is to lock down the most of personal victim's files using AES and RSA encryption algorithm. This crypto-malware changes these files by adding a line of random numbers that indicate the victim's ID and an email address pointing to the ransomware developer to their name.
The ID numbers and emails tend to be different, but the final part of this lengthy extension is always the same - .xtbl file extension.
Initially, the ransomware appeared as a part of CrySiS malware family. However, this file extension was also reused by another broad malware strain known as Scarab. The malware was first released in April 2018, but security researchers spotted the increased activity two years later. The virus does not change names or adds user ID to files, but instead adds an extension to them.
Additionally, the malware also drops IF YOU WANT TO GET ALL YOUR FILES BACK, PLEASE READ THIS.TXT ransom note, which explains that victims have to pay a ransom in Bitcoin in order to restore the locked data. Perpetrators also offer test decryption of two files to gain victims' trust.
Regardless of which virus version you have been infected with, we highly discourage you from contacting the attackers. They might never provide you with the required key, so you could lose your money as well.
There are many different types of ransomware and the newest addition to this group of viruses is Scarab-XTBL. This version is an updated variant of Scarab Ransomware which appends the same extension as its predecessors - .xtbl.
As soon as the encryption process is complete, the virus generates a ransom note called "IF YOU WANT TO GET ALL YOUR FILES BACK, PLEASE READ THIS.TXT" and places it into each directory that contains infected files.
Sadly, the changed extension is just the tip of the iceberg compared to the problems you will have to deal with if this virus ever hits your PC. This virus is a ransomware-type program, so it uses the file encryption technique to extort money from its victims. In other words, it locks the files with a sophisticated algorithm that is virtually uncrackable, unless, of course, you have a private key.
Unfortunately, this key is stored on some remote, well-protected server. And, as you may already suspect, cybercriminals are not willing to hand this key in that easily. In exchange, the hackers demand a considerable amount of money.
Remember that paying up is the last thing you should do, because you may easily get scammed and lose your money. The better choice is to remove .xtbl ransomware virus from the computer as soon as possible to avoid additional damage. virus-fighting utilities such as , can be used for this purpose. Also, employing could help you fix virus damage on the compromised system.
When the ransomware virus encrypts the data, it creates a README.txt document on every folder containing corrupted data. Instead of your regular desktop screen, you will also see a note, encouraging you to read the README document.
In this file, the cybercriminals provide the user with an identification code and two different email addresses, to which this code has to be sent in order to recover the files. It is interesting that the notes are bilingual and feature the same information in Russian and English, respectively:
As you can tell, the criminals are not very elaborate about the financial part of data recovery. This only suggests that more details about the payment and its transfer are provided only after the victim contacts the criminals. Nevertheless, looking at general ransomware practices, it can be presumed that the sum demanded the file recovery may vary from 0,5 to 4 Bitcoins.
But as we have already mentioned, paying the cyber criminals may be possible but not the wisest way to retrieve your data. However, we do not recommend keeping your hopes very high.
From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since
Different variants of this ransomware
Just like the is .xtbl ransomware, .green_ray@india.com.xtbl virus sneaks into the computer's system undetected and encrypts the containing files.
Similar to the first version, it will display a notification on the desktop, and more detailed information about the file recovery in the additional document creates on the encrypted folders.
By the way, the name of the ransom note differs from the .xtbl, so instead of README.txt, you will see How to decrypt your files.txt. Despite the minor differences, this virus is just as dangerous as the primary threat, so you have to remove it from your computer without a delay.
This version of the virus is also practically identical to .green_ray@india.com.xtbl. It spreads through spam emails and, once in the system, encrypts the files with a military-grade algorithm. It also uses the same How to decrypt your files.txt document to inform the victim about the file encryption and encourages the users to contact the cybercriminals via JohnyCryptor@aol.com email.
Having this virus on your computer may negatively influence your system's performance and pose a threat to your future files, so you have to remove JohnyCryptor@aol.com.xtbl from your computer as soon as you have the chance.
Similarly to the .xtbl versions mentioned above, this virus enters the computer in deceptive ways, posing as a legitimate document or software update. In reality, as soon as this virus carrier settles on the computer, it starts scanning the system for files and encrypting data.
None of your pictures, documents or archives are safe when this virus is around, so you have to get rid of it immediately when you notice you cannot access your files anymore.
gerkaman@aol.com.xtbl ransomware also encrypts data and invites the victim to contact the authors of the virus via email. Therefore, it is still unknown how much money they ask in exchange for a decryption key.
We assume that they might be ready for negotiations. If your computer is infected with this virus, you should not even consider paying the ransom because most likely cybercriminals are not going to send it to you.
veracrypt@india.com.xtbl is another version of the family of .xtbl viruses, though it acts similarly to the previous versions. By locking the victim's files, the virus can manipulate the user into transferring money for decryption and making an easy profit out of it.
What is new with this version is that it offers the user to decrypt one file of their choice as a type of insurance. Otherwise, the virus does not differ much from its predecessors and is just as dangerous and fraudulent.
Okean-1955 ransomware virus
Okean-1955 ransomware virus is yet another ransomware that belongs to the particular virus family. This malware encrypts the victim's files, hides the decryption key in its command and control server, and asks to purchase it.
The virus does not state the exact price of the decryption key; therefore, the victim has to send an email to Okean-1955@india.com and ask what is the price. For this reason, this malicious program has another name - Okean-1955@india.com ransomware. If you have detected this infection on your computer, remove it without any hesitation!
The malware has been spotted by MalwareHunterTeam in April 2018. It is a variant of Scarab ransomware, which adds the specific appendix to each of the files and demands a ransom to be paid in Bitcoins via a ransom note called "IF YOU WANT TO GET ALL YOUR FILES BACK, PLEASE READ THIS.TXT."
The note looks identical to the Scarab ransomware note and urges users to contact cyber crooks via joxe1@cock.li.
From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since
Ransomware is distributed mostly via spam emails
Ransomware viruses spread through spam emails mostly.
It may appear as a legitimate file attachment at first, but in reality, there is a malicious script behind it. Usually, the virus spreads in JavaScript or Word format. If you accidentally download the first one, there is not much you can do to stop the virus as the JavaScript automatically activates the virus, and it starts its dirty work on your computer.
Word documents, on the other hand, may leave you some hope. This virus needs the Word macros script to activate itself, so if it is not enabled, the infection will not be able to spread. Although the virus may try to convince you to enable macros, you should not do that because this way, you will simply allow a malicious threat to enter your computer.
Therefore, security experts urge users to be extremely careful when handling emails from unknown sources. If you see that the message has been flagged as spam - it is a high chance it is a malicious email. Thus, swiftly delete if from your inbox and never open attachments or click on provided links.
The XTBL virus ransom note
Ваши файлы были зашифрованы.
Чтобы расшифровать их, Вам необходимо отправить код:
на электронный адрес decode010@gmail.com или decode1110@gmail.com.
Далее вы получите все необходимые инструкции.
Попытки расшифровать самостоятельно не приведут ни к чему, кроме безвозвратной потери информации.
All the important files on your computer were encrypted.
To decrypt the files you should send the following code:
to e-mail address decode010@gmail.com or decode1110@gmail.com.
Then you will receive all necessary instructions.
All the attempts of decryption by yourself will result only in irrevocable loss of your data.
How to remove XTBL virus
Tools you'll need
All of these are free except where noted. Download them on a clean device if the infected PC is offline.
- A USB stick: to keep the ransom note, two or three encrypted files and screenshots off the infected PC.
- Microsoft Defender Offline: built into Windows 11 and Windows 10; scans before Windows starts, so running malware cannot hide.
- Microsoft Safety Scanner: a second, portable scanner with current signatures; each download works for 10 days.
- ID Ransomware: identifies the family from the note and one encrypted file and says whether a decryptor exists.
- No More Ransom: the free decryptors from police and security companies; check it again every few months.
- Fortect (optional): scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. The free scan is in the box above.
How to remove XTBL virus and get your files back
Work in this order.
Disconnecting comes first, removal comes before any restore, and nothing here asks you to contact the attackers.
Step 1: Disconnect the PC and unplug backup drives
Unplug the network cable or turn off Wi-Fi, and disconnect USB drives, external disks and network shares, so XTBL virus cannot reach more files. Pause OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox sync, because synced folders upload the encrypted copies over the good ones.
Leave the PC on but offline while you read the next steps, since a restart can let the ransomware run again. This applies to Windows 11 and Windows 10 alike.
Windows 11: turn off Wi-Fi to take the PC offline. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 2: Save the ransom note and confirm the family
Your files now end in
.xtbland the instructions are inREADME.txt. Save both to a USB stick, a copy of the note and two small encrypted files, before anything else.On another device, check them with ID Ransomware or Crypto Sheriff: the family name decides which decryptor, if any, can help. Keep the note's ID and contact line for your report.
Windows 11: the ransom note and encrypted files to copy for identification. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 3: Check for a free decryptor
Our last check found that for XTBL virus, no free decryptor is known (checked 7 October 2026). Look again yourself in the No More Ransom list and the free decryptor pages of Emsisoft, Avast and Kaspersky, which add new families every year.
A decryptor needs the ransomware gone first, or it encrypts the files again. Keep at least one copy of the encrypted files on an external drive, even if no tool works yet.
Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 4: Remove the ransomware before you restore or decrypt
Removing XTBL virus does not bring the files back, but it has to come first. Start with Defender's Full scan, then the offline scan from the same Scan options page, which checks the disk before Windows loads.
If the scan cannot start, use Safe Mode with Networking. Delete the ransom notes only after you have saved a copy, because removal tools sometimes leave them behind on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Windows 11: Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Full procedure with screenshots: Run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan
Step 5: Look for shadow copies of the files
Windows keeps shadow copies for restore points and backups, and some ransomware fails to delete them.
vssadmin list shadowsin an administrator Command Prompt tells you at once whether any exist.If they do, right-click the folder that held your files, open Properties > Previous Versions, select a version from before the attack, and click Open to check it before you Restore or copy the files out. Windows 11 and Windows 10 both have the tab.
Windows 11: vssadmin list shadows shows whether shadow copies exist. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 6: Restore the files from a backup or recover deleted originals
A backup made before the attack is the surest way back. Connect it only once the PC is clean, then restore from File History, Windows Backup, OneDrive's Restore your OneDrive or your own external copies.
Without a backup, try file recovery: the originals that XTBL virus deleted may still be on the disk until something overwrites them. Install nothing new on the drive you want to recover from on the Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC.
Full procedure with screenshots: Recover deleted files (Recycle Bin, backups, OneDrive) On uGetFix
Instructions for each browser and system
The detailed steps for every browser and system this guide covers. Open the one you use.
Repair damaged system components
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. 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 reinstall is required.
Therefore, we highly recommend using a one-of-a-kind, patented technology of 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.
By employing , you would not have to worry about future computer issues, as most of them could be fixed quickly by performing a full system scan at any time. Most importantly, you could avoid the tedious process of Windows reinstallation in case things go very wrong due to one reason or another.
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\\
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.
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 .
- 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
Scan your system with anti-malware
If you are a victim of ransomware, you should employ anti-malware software for its removal. Some ransomware can self-destruct after the file encryption process is finished. Even in such cases, malware might leave various data-stealing modules or could operate in conjunction with other malicious programs on your device.
or can detect and eliminate all ransomware-related files, additional modules, along with other viruses that could be hiding on your system. The security software is really easy to use and does not require any prior IT knowledge to succeed in the malware removal process.
Isolate the infected computer
Some ransomware strains aim to infect not only one computer but hijack the entire network. As soon as one of the machines is infected, malware can spread via the network and encrypt files everywhere else, including Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices. NAS devices are commonly compromised via reused administrator credentials and remote access services, and attackers may also delete existing snapshots. If your computer is connected to a network, it is important to isolate it to prevent re-infection after ransomware removal is complete.
In modern environments, ransomware often spreads using stolen credentials, remote management tools, VPN connections, and cloud synchronization services, not only through shared network drives.
The easiest way to disconnect a PC from everything is simply to plug out the ethernet cable. This does not disconnect wireless networks, VPN connections, or cloud services, which must also be disabled separately. However, in the corporate environment, this might be extremely difficult to do (also would take a long time). In many organizations, devices are centrally managed, and network isolation is typically performed by IT or security teams using endpoint security or device management tools. The method below will disconnect from all the networks, including local and the internet, isolating each of the machines involved.
On modern Windows systems, network connections can also be disabled through the Settings app or automatically isolated using endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools.
- Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter
- Go to Network and Internet
- Click Network and Sharing Center
- On the left, pick Change adapter settings
- Right-click on your connection (for example, Ethernet), and select Disable
- Confirm with Yes.
If you are using some type of cloud storage you are connected to, you should disconnect from it immediately. It is also advisable to disconnect all the external devices, such as USB flash sticks, external HDDs, etc. Once the malware elimination process is finished, you can connect your computers to the network and internet, as explained above, but by pressing Enable instead. Before reconnecting, credentials should be reset, persistence mechanisms checked, and backups verified to ensure reinfection does not occur.
From our report of Jan 2021 · not reviewed since
The virus can be removed using professional security software
What is especially unfortunate when talking about ransomware viruses is that they rarely leave the computers unharmed.
Usually, the files remain locked and sometimes a full system overwrite needed to eliminate the consequences.
Unlike what most users think, the virus removal does not mean that the locked files will be decrypted. Nevertheless, it is crucial if you want to use your computer normally again. If some of the virus residue files are left on your PC, they may help the virus to bounce back to your computer or create system vulnerabilities allowing other malware to sneak in.
What you should keep in mind, though, is that malware may fight the antivirus and block its processes. In such a case, you can try completing the steps provided at the end of this article and running the scan again. If you experience crashes, lag, errors, and similar stability issues after you eliminate the infection, utilize to fix virus damage and remediate a Windows machine.
Report it and recover your files
Report it
Report the attack even if you do not expect the files back: insurers and banks ask for the report number, and police use the contacts in the note to link cases.
- United States
- FBI IC3 · FTC ReportFraud
- United Kingdom
- Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) · NCSC
- Australia
- ReportCyber (ASD)
- EU countries
- Europol: national reporting sites
Give the victim ID, the note and the date the files were encrypted. A business that holds personal data may also have to notify its data protection authority, in the EU within 72 hours.
Backups: the 3-2-1 rule
Keep three copies of files that matter, on two kinds of storage, with one copy offline or off-site.
A disk that stays plugged in is reached by malware like XTBL virus together with the PC; one you connect only for the backup is not.
On Windows 11, File History keeps versions on an external drive, and OneDrive keeps earlier versions of synced files. Before restoring anything, make sure the PC no longer shows files that end in .xtbl and no longer open.
Setting it up step by step: 3-2-1 backups on Windows 11 and 10.
Choose a proper web browser and improve your safety with a VPN tool
Online spying has got momentum in recent years and people are getting more and more interested in how to protect their privacy online.
One of the basic means to add a layer of security - choose the most private and secure web browser. Although web browsers can't grant full privacy protection and security, some of them are much better at sandboxing, HTTPS upgrading, active content blocking, tracking blocking, phishing protection, and similar privacy-oriented features.
However, if you want true anonymity, we suggest you employ a powerful VPN - it can encrypt all the traffic that comes and goes out of your computer, preventing tracking completely.
Lost your files? Use data recovery software
While some files located on any computer are replaceable or useless, others can be extremely valuable.
Family photos, work documents, school projects - these are types of files that we don't want to lose. Unfortunately, there are many ways how unexpected data loss can occur:
- power cuts
- Blue Screen of Death errors
- hardware failures
- crypto-malware attack
- even accidental deletion
To ensure that all the files remain intact, you should prepare regular data backups. You can choose cloud-based or physical copies you could restore from later in case of a disaster. If your backups were lost as well or you never bothered to prepare any, can be your only hope to retrieve your invaluable files.
Questions about XTBL virus
How do I open .xtbl files?
You cannot open them by renaming or with another program, because the content of files ending in .xtbl has been encrypted. The only ways back are a working decryptor for the family, or clean copies from elsewhere:
- OneDrive versions
- File History
- an offline backup drive
- Previous Versions if the ransomware did not delete them
Identify the family first by uploading the ransom note and one encrypted file to ID Ransomware or No More Ransom. Avoid websites and programs that promise to open any encrypted file; they do not work and some are scams.
Is there a free XTBL virus decryptor?
We last checked on 7 October 2026, and for XTBL virus no free decryptor is known. We check No More Ransom, which collects free tools from police and security companies, and the decryptor pages of the major antivirus vendors. A working decryptor exists only when the encryption has a flaw or the keys were leaked or seized.
Ignore sites and videos that offer a "XTBL virus decryptor" for download or for a fee: these are usually scams or malware. Real decryptors are free and come from known security companies or law enforcement. Keep the encrypted files in case a tool appears later.
Should I pay the ransom?
We advise against it, and so do the FBI, Europol and national cyber agencies. Payment does not guarantee a working tool: some attackers never reply, some tools damage files, and some variants have no decryptor at all. Paying also funds further attacks and can make you a target again.
Before considering payment, try every recovery option in this guide and report the attack. Companies must involve their legal adviser and insurer, because payments to sanctioned groups can be illegal. If files are truly irreplaceable, store the encrypted copies and wait; decryptors sometimes appear later.
How did XTBL virus get on my computer?
The way XTBL virus spreads has not been documented yet, so look at your own recent activity. On home PCs, ransomware most often comes with cracked programs, game cheats, key generators and fake updates, or with an e-mail attachment that was opened. On business networks, attackers usually log in through Remote Desktop with a stolen or guessed password.
Think back to what was downloaded or installed in the days before files that end in .xtbl and no longer open, and check the Downloads folder and Installed apps sorted by date. Keep anything suspicious for your report, but do not run it again.
Can a data-recovery company decrypt my files for a fee?
Only if a decryptor already exists or the company pays the attackers for you. Some "ransomware recovery" services advertise that they can decrypt families with no known flaw; in practice they negotiate with the attackers and add their own fee. Others use the same free tools listed on No More Ransom.
Before you hire anyone, ask in writing how they will recover the files, whether they will contact the attackers and what happens if they fail. A legitimate service answers clearly. If a free decryptor exists for your family, you can run it yourself.
Did XTBL virus steal my files or passwords?
We do not know yet. Nothing published so far shows data theft by XTBL virus, but the only confirmed sign is files that end in .xtbl and no longer open, which says nothing about what happened before. Many current ransomware attacks copy files or run a password stealer first, so it is wise to act as if they did.
From a clean device, change the passwords that were saved in the browsers on this PC, starting with e-mail and banking, sign out of all sessions and turn on two-step verification. Watch bank statements and account activity for the next few weeks.
Is XTBL virus the same as other ransomware with a similar name?
Not necessarily. Ransomware names come from the file extension, the note or a word in the code, so unrelated families often end up with similar names, and one family can appear under several names. The difference matters: a decryptor or advice for one family does not fit another and can damage files.
Compare the ending added to your files and the exact name of the note with the summary table at the top of this guide, then upload the note and one encrypted file to ID Ransomware from a clean device. If the result names another family, follow the guide for that family instead.
Can I delete README.txt?
Yes, the note itself is harmless text and deleting it does not affect your files. Keep at least one copy first, outside the infected PC. README.txt contains your personal ID and the attackers' contact details, which identification services use to tell which family encrypted your files, and which a decryptor may need later.
Police reports also ask for it. Once you have saved a copy, you can remove the notes from every folder after the ransomware program has been removed and your files are restored or backed up.
Will .xtbl spread to my other drives?
It can. Ransomware encrypts every drive and network share it can reach while it runs, so external disks, USB sticks and shared folders connected during the attack may also have files ending in .xtbl. Disconnect everything now, then check each device from a clean computer.
Do not plug a backup drive into the infected PC until the ransomware has been removed with an offline scan. Cloud folders such as OneDrive sync the encrypted versions, but they keep earlier versions you can usually restore.
Will Fortect remove XTBL virus?
Fortect scans Windows for malware and unwanted programs and repairs the system files and settings they change, and its free scan shows what it finds on your PC before you decide anything.
For XTBL virus, follow the plan above as well: the browser steps take back permissions and settings that no scanner treats as a threat, and uninstalling the program that brought it removes the source.
Run Microsoft Defender's full scan and, if anything was found, its offline scan as a second opinion. If the symptoms are gone after the plan and both scans are clean, there is nothing more to do.
Sources
- SearchSecurity: RSA algorithm (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) (read October 7, 2026)
- Wikipedia: Email spam (read October 7, 2026)
- MalwareHunterTeam: MalwareHunterTeam (read October 7, 2026)
- SenzaVirus: SenzaVirus (read October 7, 2026)
- CISA: StopRansomware (read October 7, 2026)