Remove ARCH WIPER ransomware

ARCH WIPER ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files. The malware is either still in development and is currently being tested, or its operators are simply trying to cause damage as they do not offer a decryptor. That is unusual for ransomware, as operators usually try to sell the decryptor so they can make money. In this case, the ARCH WIPER ransomware operators simply encrypt files and provide no way to recover them. The ransomware can be identified by the .Arch extension added to all affected files. At the moment, only users who have backups of their files can recover them.

 

 

ARCH WIPER ransomware will start encrypting files immediately upon being initiated. The malware intends to cause as much havoc as possible, so its main targets are personal files, including photos, videos, and documents. Once encrypted, the files will have an .Arch extension added to them. For example, a 1.txt file would become 1.txt.Arch if encrypted. Unfortunately, files with that extension will not be openable.

The ransomware drops a WIPED.txt ransom note when it’s done encrypting files. The note explains that files have been encrypted and permanently corrupted, with no way to restore the data. The malware operators suggest users reset their computers and start from scratch.

Below is the full ARCH WIPER ransomware WIPED.txt ransom note:

ARCH WIPER

Greetings user. Unfortunately for you, your computer has been infected by the ARCH WIPER
Malware. All of the files on your computer have been encrypted by this malware and are now
permanently corrupted and unusable. there is no way to restore your data or your files. The only
thing you can do now is completely reset your computer and start from scratch.

My deepest condolences.
Arch

If users have a backup, they can connect to it and begin recovering files after they remove ARCH WIPER ransomware from their devices. This ransomware is quite complex, so it’s advisable to use anti-malware software during the removal process to prevent further damage. Once the ransomware is no longer detected in scans, it’s safe to access the backup.

Unfortunately, the only way to recover files is through a backup. Currently, there is no free ARCH WIPER ransomware decryptor available, and it’s unlikely that one will be released soon. If a decryptor does become available, it will be found on the NoMoreRansom website. Users should exercise caution when searching for free decryptors, as many of them may be fake or malicious.

How is ARCH WIPER ransomware distributed?

ARCH WIPER ransomware, like many other types of ransomware, is commonly spread through email attachments and torrents. Users who have good browsing habits are considerably less likely to encounter malware, as they tend to avoid risky actions. For instance, opening unsolicited email attachments without verifying their legitimacy or using torrents for pirated content increases the likelihood of malware infections. Developing better habits and learning about the common methods of malware distribution can help reduce these risks.

Malware is often found in torrents, particularly those related to popular entertainment (such as movies, TV shows, and video games). Torrent websites typically lack adequate moderation, resulting in malicious actors uploading infected files. For those unfamiliar with malware within torrents, it’s easy to unintentionally download an infection. Moreover, using torrents to access pirated content is not only content theft but also dangerous.

Another frequent method of malware infection is by opening email attachments. Cybercriminals launch widespread malspam campaigns, sending emails that mimic delivery notifications or order confirmations and add malicious attachments. Fortunately, these emails are often quite recognizable. They typically contain numerous grammar and spelling mistakes, a red flag since legitimate emails from known companies will never have mistakes. Additionally, these malicious emails often use generic words like “User,” “Member,” or “Customer” to address recipients, whereas a legitimate business would address its customers by name. However, when a specific individual or company is targeted, malicious emails can be far more sophisticated. Therefore, it is advisable to scan unsolicited email attachments with anti-virus software or VirusTotal before opening them.

How to remove ARCH WIPER ransomware

If users have a backup of their files, it’s important not to connect to it until they have completely removed ARCH WIPER ransomware from their computer. Connecting to the backup while the ransomware is still present could lead to the encryption of those backed-up files as well. To delete ARCH WIPER ransomware, users should use a reputable anti-malware program, as this infection is quite complex and typically requires a professional program to get rid of. Attempting to manually remove ARCH WIPER ransomware could result in further damage to the devices.