Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Erif Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .erif files)

Erif Virus – Details

Erif is a malicious software application functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular virus researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Erif was created for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as soon as the encryption is successfully achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Erif ransomware includes its own “.erif” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Erif, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.erif”. Once the encryption is achieved, Erif puts its own special text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.

The message stated by document asking for the random os very comparable to the alerts given by other ransomware risks coming from the DJVU family. The warning essentially indicates that the data has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely true.

The technique to encrypt the files used by Erif is not totally investigated. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be issued an unique decryption key, which is definitely special. It is incredibly hard to recuperate the data without the appropriate type in place.

“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:

message from Erif virus

One more peculiarity of the Erif virus is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the complete control by the criminals who have actually released the Erif infection into the world wide web. In order to acquire the key and bring back the important information, the users are told to contact the frauds through email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.

The message likewise states that the people need to contact the Erif authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so individuals will get a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom quantity falls to $490.

No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we strongly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online scoundrels will keep their pledges, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom frequently does not result in a successful healing. So, the users might simply lose their money for nothing.

Similarly, we urge you not to contact the frauds as they advise. Do not transfer loan into their wallets. There are no applications that could break the Erif virus or restore the data at no cost. Therefore, the only appropriate choice is to bring back the information from possible backups (if readily available).

Virus Summary

NameErif Ransomware
File Extensionerif
TypeRansomware
FamilyDJVU
Short DescriptionThe ransomware encrypts all the data stored on your system and requires a ransom to be paid on your part supposedly to recover your important files.
SymptomsFile encryption by the ransomware is performed by means of the AES-256 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .erif extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution MethodAdware bundles and software cracks
Similar InfectionsKuus, Bmic, Repl
Erif Removal Tool   GridinSoft Anti-Malware
Erif Decryption Tool   Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor

Do not forget that the Web is now filled with infections similar to the Erif virus. For instance, this specific hazard is essentially similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive energies have actually been developed in order to encrypt the essential information and express the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to produce the specific key for effective data decryption.

Unless the Erif ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Thus, the only working option to avoid the loss of your crucial data is to regularly maintain updated backups of all your essential documents.

Another important piece of recommendations is to save the backups on unique storage not linked to your primary computer. For example, you might store it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your regular drive is very dangerous, given that the backup may also be encrypted by the Erif infection.

Leakages for the Erif ransomware attack.

Erif uses many paths to penetrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not certain what specific method was used in your case, however, the invasion might occur by means of the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, primarily freeware;
  • spam emails from the unknown senders;
  • sites offering free hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.

There are times when the Erif ransomware might disguise itself as some genuine application, for instance, through the misleading alerts requiring installation of some software application update. This is the most typical trick utilized by the scams to inject the Erif infection files into the system. In this manner users partly participate in its setup, without clearly understanding the threat.

Additionally, the scams may send out unsolicited spam email with challenging notifies motivating the people to open dubious attachments or click some download links, for instance, those encouraging the people to open specific photos, text files, tax documents and other info.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links may essentially harm the system. Fake Acrobat Reader update notices may cause the Erif ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the broken software application might in addition consist of the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Erif might take place through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent and even permission.

Avoiding the Erif ransomware attack.

Obviously, there is no outright assurance that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, however, we would like to share some useful suggestions with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay extremely attention while browsing the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email attachments, particularly if the sender is not understood to you.

Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise consist of some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications might be really destructive. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your operating system in basic to be constantly appropriately updated.

It is rather sensible that downloading cracked programs is prohibited, nevertheless, additionally, such unapproved apps use may also bring major damage to your system. Thus, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the reality that your current anti-virus did not secure the system from the Erif ransomware is an excellent factor for you to reassess your choices and switch to another program that can render the securing functions on a much better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Erif text file:

ATTENTION!
 
 Don't worry, you can return all your files!
 All your files like photos, 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:
 https://we.tl/t-2P5WrE5b9f
 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:
 restorealldata@firemail.cc
  
 Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
 gorentos@bitmessage.ch 

 Our Telegram account:
 @datarestore

Screenshot of files with “.erif” extension added by the virus:”

Erif Ransomware - encrypt files with .erif extension

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Erif ransomware from your computer

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can download GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:

  GridinSoft Anti-Malware

2. Double-click on the setup file.

When setup file has finished downloading, double-click on the setup-antimalware-ag.exe file to install GridinSoft Anti-Malware on your computer.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware
An User Account Control asking you about to allow GridinSoft Anti-Malware to make changes to your device. So, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Setup

3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware Install

3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware  Start

4. Wait for the GridinSoft Anti-Malware scan to complete.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically start scanning your computer for Win Speedup 2018 and other malicious programs. This process can take a 20-30 minutes, so we suggest you periodically check on the status of the scan process.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan

5. Click on “Clean Now”.

When the scan has completed, you will see the list of infections that GridinSoft Anti-Malware has detected. To remove them click on the “Clean Now” button in right corner.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan Result

Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore erif files

You can get Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:

  Emsisoft Decryptor

  1. Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
  2. Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
  3. By default, the decryptor will pre-populate the locations to decrypt with the currently connected drives and network drives. Additional locations can be added using the Add” button.
  4. Decryptors typically offer various options depending on the particular malware family. The available options are located in the Options tab and can be enabled or disabled there. You can find a detailed list of the available Options below.
  5. After you have added all the locations you want to decrypt to the list, click the “Decrypt” button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files
  6. The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your personal records, you can save it by clicking the “Save log” button. You can also copy it straight to your clipboard to paste it into emails or forum posts if you are asked to.
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Daniel Zimmermann

Daniel Zimmermann has been writing on security and malware subjects for many years and has been working in the security industry for over 10 years. Daniel was educated at the Saarland University in Saarbrücken, Germany and currently lives in New York.

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4 Comments

  1. Imposible are sure ? so sad 🙁

    File: C:\Users\VxeR\Desktop\@Fix Print\@Dapus Me.docx.erif
    No key for New Variant online ID: LCZ1REWS1ESwscaycsFzZTARIm5gNiQpRWnQXenC
    Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible

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