Hgew Virus Ransomware
Hgew is a destructive software application working as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, very first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Hgew was created for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as quickly as the file encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Hgew ransomware adds its own “.hgew” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Hgew, will be titled as “price_list.xls.hgew”. Once the file encryption is accomplished, Hgew puts its own distinct text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert stated by text file requesting for the random os very similar to the alerts provided by other ransomware threats coming from the DJVU family. The warning generally indicates that the data has been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.
The method to encrypt the files utilized by Hgew is not completely researched. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be released an unique decryption key, which is absolutely distinct. It is incredibly hard to recover the information without the suitable type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Hgew ransomware is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the total control by the scoundrels who have released the Hgew ransomware into the world wide web. In order to obtain the key and restore the important data, the users are told to connect with the scams through email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message also states that the people should call the Hgew authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so individuals will acquire a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Hgew crypted your data, nevertheless, it may not be the only hazard on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To spot and erase the danger entirely, we suggest you to refer to the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware tool.
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we strongly encourage that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online criminals will keep their pledges, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom typically does not lead to a successful healing. So, the users might simply lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we urge you not to call the scams as they advise. Do not transfer money into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Hgew virus or bring back the information at no charge. Therefore, the only correct choice is to bring back the information from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Hgew Ransomware |
| File Extension | hgew |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Family | DJVU |
| Short Description | The 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. |
| Symptoms | File 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 .hgew extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Hgew Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Hgew Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections comparable to the Hgew virus. For instance, this specific risk is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have been established in order to secure the essential data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to create the specific key for successful information decryption.
Unless the Hgew ransomware is still under the advancement process or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information manually. Therefore, the only working service to avoid the loss of your essential data is to regularly maintain current backups of all your crucial files.
Another important piece of suggestions is to store the backups on special storage not linked to your primary computer. For instance, you might store it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is very risky, because the backup may likewise be secured by the Hgew ransomware.
Leaks for the Hgew ransomware attack.
Hgew uses many courses to infiltrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not certain what particular technique was used in your case, however, the intrusion might occur via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly free apps;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites offering complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Hgew ransomware might camouflage itself as some real application, for example, through the deceptive signals requiring installation of some software application update. This is the most common technique used by the scams to inject the Hgew infection files into the system. In this manner users partially participate in its setup, without clearly comprehending the threat.
In addition, the scams may send out unsolicited spam e-mail with tricky signals motivating the people to open dubious attachments or click some download links, for instance, those motivating individuals to open particular photos, text files, tax files and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links may basically harm the system. Fake Media Player upgrade notices may lead to the Hgew ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the split software application might furthermore include the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Hgew may occur through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission or even authorization.
Preventing the Hgew ransom virus attack.
Obviously, there is no absolute warranty that your computer will be constantly without any malware attacks, however, we wish to share some useful tips with you to make it safer. Make certain to pay very very close attention while browsing the web and particularly while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email accessories, particularly if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer may likewise consist of some other extra apps in the package. These extra applications might be very harmful. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in basic to be always properly updated.
It is rather sensible that downloading cracked software is unlawful, however, furthermore, such unapproved software application use might also bring severe damage to your computer. For this reason, do not download any split programs. Plus, the reality that your existing anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Hgew ransomware is an excellent reason for you to reassess your options and change to another program that can render the protecting functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Hgew 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 “.hgew” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Hgew ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can get GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:
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.
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.
3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.
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.
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.
Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore hgew files
You can download Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:
- Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
- Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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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