Remove Bruk ransomware

Bruk ransomware is a file-encrypting type of malicious infection. These types of infections are very dangerous because they essentially take files hostage and demand payment for their recovery. This particular ransomware can be identified by the extension that ends in .bruk added to files you can no longer open. The ransomware targets all personal files, as they are usually the most important to users. Until those files are put through a decryptor, they will be unopenable. And obtaining the decryptor is not easy because only the malicious actors operating the ransomware have it. At the moment, only users who have backups can recover their files for free.

 

 

Bruk ransomware is a form of malicious software designed to encrypt files. Generally, users can identify which ransomware they are dealing with by the extensions added to encrypted files. The Bruk ransomware adds .{victim’s unique ID}.bruk, with the victim’s ID being a unique combination of numbers and letters, so malicious actors can differentiate between victims. For instance, a text.txt file would be renamed to text.txt.{victim’s unique ID}.bruk.

Once activated, this ransomware immediately begins encrypting personal files such as photos, videos, and documents, rendering them unopenable until decrypted with a specialized tool. However, cybercriminals demand payment in exchange for this decryptor. This is explained in the ransom note dropped once all target files are encrypted.

The README.txt ransom note instructs victims to pay a ransom to receive the decryptor, though it does not specify the amount. The note advises against using third-party tools for decryption and imposes a 24-hour deadline for payment. bruklin777@cyberfear.com is given as the contact email address for the ransomware operators. The note also mentions that simple files can be decrypted for free as proof that decryption is possible.

Whatever the ransom amount is, paying is always discouraged because it does not guarantee that the decryptor will be provided. Victims should remember that ransomware operators are cybercriminals, and paying the ransom not only fails to ensure file recovery but also funds future illegal activities.

For those without backups, recovery is only possible by waiting for cybersecurity experts to develop a free Bruk ransomware decryptor. While no such tool is currently available, victims can save the encrypted files and periodically check platforms like NoMoreRansom for a free decryptor. For those with backups, it is critical to remove Bruk ransomware before accessing the backup to prevent encryption. A reputable anti-malware program should be used to effectively delete Bruk ransomware.

The full README.txt ransom note is below:

YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED

All your files have been encrypted due to weak security.

Only we can recover your files. You have 24 hours to contact us. To contact us, you need to write to the mailbox below.

To make sure we have a decryptor and it works, you can send an email to:
bruklin777@cyberfear.com and decrypt one file for free.
We accept simple files as a test. They do not have to be important.

Warning.
* Do not rename your encrypted files.
* Do not try to decrypt your data with third-party programs, it may cause irreversible data loss.
* Decrypting files with third-party programs may result in higher prices (they add their fees to ours) or you may become a victim of fraud.

* Do not contact file recovery companies. Negotiate on your own. No one but us can get your files back to you. We will offer to check your files as proof.
If you contact a file recovery company, they will contact us. This will cost you dearly. Because such companies take commissions.
We accept Bitcoin cryptocurrency for payment.

Email us at:
bruklin777@cyberfear.com

Ransomware distribution methods

Ransomware can infiltrate your computer through various methods, including malicious email attachments (commonly referred to as malspam), fake software updates, torrent downloads, and harmful advertisements. Poor browsing habits increase vulnerability to malware attacks, making it essential to develop safer online habits and understand common malware distribution techniques if users want to avoid becoming victims in the future.

Malicious emails are commonly used for spreading malware. Cybercriminals often purchase leaked email addresses from hacker forums to use for their malicious email campaigns that include harmful attachments. Opening the attachment initiates the ransomware, which begins encrypting files on the system. Fortunately, malspam emails can often be identified by spelling and grammar mistakes, suspicious sender addresses, and users being addressed using generic words like User, Member, and Customer. Being very cautious with unsolicited emails can help prevent infection. For added security, all attachments from unknown senders should be scanned using antivirus software or services like VirusTotal.

Using torrents to download copyrighted content also presents significant malware risks. Many torrent sites are very poorly moderated, allowing malicious actors to upload infected files easily. Malware is especially common in torrents for popular entertainment content. Using torrents to download copyrighted content is not only illegal but also exposes your personal data and devices to potential danger.

How to remove Bruk ransomware

Ransomware infections are very sophisticated, so it’s important to use an anti-malware program to remove Bruk ransomware. Trying to remove it manually could make things worse. Also, avoid accessing your backup until the ransomware is fully removed, as it could encrypt those files too.