Remove Pouu ransomware (.pouu virus)

Pouu ransomware, also known as .pouu virus, is malware from the Djvu/STOP ransomware family. It’s a dangerous infection that will target all personal files and encrypt them, thus making them unopenable. Encrypted files can be recognized by the .pouu extension added to all encrypted files. These files will remain unopenable until you use a special decryptor on them. However, getting the decryptor is not going to be easy because the only ones who have it are the cybercriminals operating this ransomware.

 

 

Pouu ransomware is a type of malware that targets and encrypts personal files like photos, videos, documents, and more. Once encrypted, these files will have the .pouu extension appended to them; for instance, a file named text.txt will change to text.txt.pouu. Opening any encrypted files requires a decryptor, which is exclusively in the hands of the cybercriminals behind this ransomware. Given that their primary goal is to extort money from victims, they are not going to provide the decryptor without payment.

After all targeted files are encrypted, the ransomware will leave a _readme.txt ransom note. This note, while generic, explains how to obtain the decryptor. It states that the decryptor is available for purchase at the price of $980, with a supposed 50% discount for those who contact the criminals within the first 72 hours. The validity of this discount is questionable, and paying the ransom is generally not recommended. It’s important to remember that you are dealing with cybercriminals, which means paying will not necessarily result in you receiving the decryptor. Many victims have paid the ransom only to be left without their files.

The full Pouu ransomware _readme.txt ransom note is below:

ATTENTION!

Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-GTrvfBi8hs
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@freshmail.top

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelp@airmail.cc

Your personal ID:

If you have a backup of your files, you should have no issues with file recovery. However, the first step is to completely remove Pouu ransomware from your system using a trustworthy anti-malware program. Avoid trying to manually delete Pouu ransomware, as this can lead to further damage to your device. Once the ransomware is completely removed, you can safely access your backup to recover your files.

If you do not have a backup, recovering your files will become much more challenging. The only remaining option would be to wait for a free Pouu ransomware decryptor to become available. Currently, it is not available, but it’s possible that it may be released in the future. If you have no other alternatives, make sure to back up your encrypted files and occasionally check NoMoreRansom.

How is ransomware distributed?

Ransomware aimed at regular users is commonly spread through torrents, malicious emails, and advertisements on high-risk websites. Users with poor online habits are at a greater risk of contracting malware, as they are more likely to engage in unsafe activities while browsing. By adopting better online habits, users can significantly lower their chances of encountering malware.

Torrent sites tend to have very poor moderation, allowing malicious actors to upload infected torrents. These harmful torrents can remain available for extended periods, potentially infecting thousands of users before being removed. It’s particularly common to find malware in torrents for popular movies, TV shows, video games, and software. We strongly recommend you stop downloading copyrighted content via torrents, not only because it’s content theft but also because it poses a significant risk to your computer.

Malware is also frequently distributed through email attachments. When users open these harmful attachments, they unwittingly allow malware to infiltrate their systems. Fortunately, most of these malicious emails are relatively easy to identify. The emails often claim to be from known companies whose services the user uses, aiming to trick them into opening attachments. However, these spam campaigns are commonly ineffective; they usually contain noticeable grammar and spelling mistakes, while legitimate companies generally send polished, mistake-free emails to their customers. What’s more, malicious emails often address users using generic terms like “User”, “Member”, or “Customer”, while legitimate emails will always address users by name to make the email more personalized. Some malicious emails are more sophisticated, which is why it’s advisable to scan all email attachments with anti-virus software or tools like VirusTotal before opening them.

How to remove Pouu ransomware

Dealing with ransomware like Pouu can be quite complicated, so it’s advisable to use professional anti-malware software to remove Pouu ransomware. Attempting a manual removal can lead to further damage or could leave behind some components, which might allow the ransomware to recover. If that happens while you’re connected to a backup, it’s possible that your backed-up files could also get encrypted. Thus, make sure you use an anti-malware program. After ensuring that the ransomware has been completely eliminated, you can connect to your backup and start recovering your files.