Hlas Virus – Details
Hlas is a malicious software application functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Hlas was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as quickly as the file encryption is successfully accomplished, the users are not able to get access to them. Hlas ransomware adds its own “.hlas” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as modified by Hlas, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.hlas”. As soon as the file encryption is achieved, Hlas puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.
The message specified by _readme.txt requesting for the random os really similar to the alerts offered by other ransomware hazards belonging to the DJVU family. The caution basically indicates that the files have been encrypted and the only option to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely true.
The method to encrypt the files used by Hlas is not completely looked into. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be issued a special decryption key, which is absolutely special. It is very difficult to recover the data without the appropriate key in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Hlas infection 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 criminals who have released the Hlas virus into the internet. In order to acquire the key and bring back the essential data, the users are informed to connect with the frauds by means of email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message also states that individuals ought to get in touch with the Hlas authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Hlas encrypted your files, however, it might not be the only risk on your computer. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To find and delete the danger totally, we recommend you to describe the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly recommend that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online crooks will keep their guarantees, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom often does not result in an effective recovery. So, the users might just lose their money for nothing.
Similarly, we advise you not to get in touch with the frauds as they instruct. Do not transfer money into their wallets. There are no applications that might split the Hlas ransomware or bring back the information at no cost. For that reason, the only right decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Hlas Ransomware |
| File Extension | hlas |
| 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 .hlas extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Hlas Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Hlas Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now loaded with infections similar to the Hlas ransomware. For example, this particular danger is basically similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive utilities have been established in order to secure the crucial information and express the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to generate the particular key for successful information decryption.
Unless the Hlas ransomware is still under the development process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the data manually. Therefore, the only working service to prevent the loss of your essential data is to routinely maintain current backups of all your vital data.
Another important piece of recommendations is to store the backups on unique storage not connected to your primary PC. For example, you might store it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is extremely risky, because the backup might likewise be secured by the Hlas virus.
Leakages for the Hlas ransomware attack.
Hlas uses lots of courses to penetrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not particular what specific technique was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the intrusion may occur by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily free software;
- spam emails from the unidentified senders;
- websites supplying complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Hlas may disguise itself as some real application, for example, through the misleading signals demanding setup of some software application upgrade. This is the most typical technique utilized by the scams to inject the Hlas ransomware files into the system. In this manner users partly participate in its setup, without plainly comprehending the danger.
Furthermore, the scams may send out unsolicited spam e-mail with tricky notifies motivating the people to open dubious accessories or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open specific images, text files, tax documents and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the malicious links might essentially harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update notices may result in the Hlas ransomware seepage. Likewise, downloading the split software application may additionally contain the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, installation of Hlas may take place through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization and even approval.
Preventing the Hlas virus attack.
Naturally, there is no outright warranty that your computer will be constantly without any malware attacks, nevertheless, we wish to share some useful ideas with you to make it more secure. Make sure to pay very attention while searching the web and specifically while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail attachments, particularly if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer may also contain some other extra apps in the package. These additional applications might be very harmful. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in general to be constantly appropriately upgraded.
It is rather logical that downloading cracked apps is unlawful, nevertheless, furthermore, such unauthorized programs use might likewise bring serious damage to your system. For this reason, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the fact that your current anti-virus did not protect the system from the Hlas ransomware is a good reason for you to reassess your choices and switch to another program that can render the securing functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Hlas 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 “.hlas” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Hlas 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 hlas 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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