Remove Xcvf ransomware

Xcvf ransomware is a new generic version of the Djvu/STOP ransomware. This ransomware version can be identified by the .xcvf extension added to encrypted files. The majority of more recent Djvu/STOP ransomware versions are identical to one another, and, unfortunately, they are all equally dangerous. Once files are encrypted, you will not be able to open them unless you first decrypt them. The ransomware will encrypt all personal files, and it’s not always possible to recover them. This is why ransomware is considered to be one of the most dangerous malware infections. Unless users have a backup, file recovery may not be possible. To decrypt files, it would be necessary to have a special decryptor. But the only people who have it are the cybercriminals operating this ransomware. And considering they’re making money by extorting victims, they’re not going to just give it to you.

 

 

As soon as it’s initiated, Xcvf ransomware will immediately start encrypting your personal files. Like all ransomware, it targets primarily personal files because users are more willing to pay to get them back. So your photos, videos, images, documents, etc., will all be encrypted. You will know which files have been affected because they will have .xcvf added to them. For example, an encrypted image.jpg would become image.jpg.xcvf. You will not be able to open any files that have this extension unless you first decrypt them using a special decryptor. The _readme.txt ransom note will explain how you can acquire the decryptor.

The _readme.txt ransom notes will get dropped in all folders that have encrypted files. The notes dropped by ransomware from this family are usually identical, with only the contact email addresses changing occasionally. The note explains that in order to get the decryptor, paying $980 in ransom is necessary. There supposedly is a 50% discount for victims who contact the malware operators within the first 72 hours. The discount part is questionable, as is paying the ransom. Keep in mind that you are dealing with cybercriminals, and there are no guarantees that you will be sent a decryptor. The malware operators are unlikely to feel any kind of obligation to help victims. Furthermore, your money would go towards future criminal activities. Whether you pay or not is your decision but you need to be aware of the risks that come with engaging with malware operators.

If you do not have a backup and are not planning on paying the ransom, your only option may be to wait for a free Xcvf ransomware decryptor to be released. It’s not currently available, though a free Djvu/STOP decryptor by Emsisoft can be downloaded. However, this free decryptor will only work on ransomware whose encryption keys Emsisoft has. Older Djvu/STOP versions used offline keys for file encryption, which meant they were identical to all victims. However, new versions, including Xcvf ransomware, use online keys, meaning the keys are unique to each victim. Unless those keys are released by the cybercriminals (or law enforcement), it will be difficult for malware researchers to develop a free decryptor. Nonetheless, you should back up your encrypted files and wait for a free Xcvf ransomware decryptor to be released. If a free decryptor does get released, it would appear on NoMoreRansom.

If you have copies of your files saved in a backup, you can access them as soon as you remove Xcvf ransomware from your computer. Make sure to use anti-malware software when removing ransomware because it’s a very complex malware infection that should be dealt with by a professional program. Keep in mind that if you were to connect to your backup while ransomware was still present on the computer, your backed-up files would become encrypted as well.

How do malicious actors distribute ransomware?

Ransomware operators use different distribution methods but generally, users with good online habits are much less likely to encounter malware. Users who pirate copyrighted content using torrents, open unsolicited email attachments without double-checking them first, click on ads when browsing high-risk websites, etc., will run into malware more commonly. Taking the time to develop better browsing habits, as well as becoming more familiar with malware distribution methods, can help avoid malware.

Malware can often be encountered in torrents for entertainment content. Torrent sites are often poorly regulated, and this allows malicious actors to upload malicious content much more easily. Torrents for popular movies, TV series, software, video games, etc., often have malware in them. So if you pirate copyrighted content, you’re not only stealing content but also endangering your computer and files.

Malicious emails are also often used to distribute malware. Cybercriminals buy email addresses from various hacker forums and use them to spread ransomware. The email addresses end up on those forums after they’re leaked by various services. So if your email address has been leaked, you need to be more careful with emails. It’s worth mentioning that the emails are not harmful as long as you do not open the attachment. Fortunately for you, the emails are fairly easy to recognize if you know what to look for. The most obvious sign is grammar/spelling mistakes. Malicious senders often claim to be from legitimate companies, emailing with important business. But when the email is full of grammar/spelling mistakes, it’s immediately obvious that the sender is not who they claim to be. Another obvious sign is when the sender claims you use their services but address you using generic terms like “User”, “Member”, and “Customer” instead of using your name. But some malicious emails may not be so obvious, which is why it’s a good idea to scan all unsolicited email attachments with anti-virus software or VirusTotal before opening them.

Xcvf ransomware removal

Ransomware is a very complex malicious infection so it’s highly recommended to use anti-malware software to remove Xcvf ransomware from your computer. When your anti-malware software fully removes the ransomware from your computer, you can safely connect to your backup and start encrypting files. Do not try to delete Xcvf ransomware manually because you could end up causing additional damage. If you do not have a backup, back up the encrypted files and wait for a free Xcvf ransomware decryptor to be released.