Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Shariz Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .shariz files)

Shariz Virus – Details

Shariz is a destructive software working as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Shariz was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as quickly as the file encryption is successfully achieved, the users are unable to get access to them. Shariz virus adds its own “.shariz” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Shariz, will be titled as “price_list.xls.shariz”. As soon as the encryption is achieved, Shariz puts its own distinct text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.

The alert stated by text file requesting for the random os very similar to the alerts given by other ransomware risks belonging to the DJVU family. The caution generally shows that the data has been encrypted and the only service to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is absolutely true.

The technique to encrypt the files used by Shariz is not totally investigated. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be released a special decryption key, which is absolutely distinct. It is extremely hard to recover the data without the appropriate key in place.

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

message from Shariz virus

One more peculiarity of the Shariz infection is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the complete control by the scoundrels who have introduced the Shariz infection into the internet. In order to get the key and restore the essential information, the users are informed to connect with the scams via e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.

The message also states that the people need to get in touch with the Shariz authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will obtain a 50% discount rate, therefore, the ransom amount drops down to $490.

No matter what the amount 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 might not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is received into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom typically does not lead to an effective recovery. So, the users might simply lose their money for absolutely nothing.

Similarly, we urge you not to call the frauds as they instruct. Do not transfer money into their wallets. There are no applications that could split the Shariz ransomware or restore the data at no charge. For that reason, the only proper decision is to bring back the data from possible backups (if available).

Virus Summary

NameShariz Ransomware
File Extensionshariz
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-556 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .shariz extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution MethodAdware bundles and software cracks
Similar InfectionsSeto, Rumba, Geno
Removal Tool   GridinSoft Anti-Malware

Do not forget that the Web is now full of infections comparable to the Shariz ransomware. For example, this specific risk is essentially similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive energies have actually been established in order to secure the crucial information and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to create the particular key for successful files decryption.

Unless the Shariz ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to restore the information manually. Hence, the only working solution to avoid the loss of your crucial information is to frequently preserve up-to-date backups of all your crucial data.

Another essential piece of recommendations is to keep the backups on special storage not connected to your main computer. For instance, you might keep 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 routine drive is really risky, given that the backup might also be secured by the Shariz infection.

Leaks for the Shariz ransomware attack.

Shariz uses numerous paths to penetrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not certain what particular approach was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might take place by means of the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, mainly freeware;
  • spam emails from the unidentified senders;
  • sites supplying free hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.

There are times when the Shariz might camouflage itself as some real application, for instance, through the misleading notifies demanding setup of some software application upgrade. This is the most typical technique used by the scams to inject the Shariz infection files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without plainly comprehending the threat.

In addition, the scams might send out unsolicited spam email with challenging informs motivating individuals to open dubious accessories or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open particular photos, text files, tax documents and other info.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking the malicious links might essentially damage the system. Fake Acrobat Reader update notifications may lead to the Shariz ransomware seepage. Similarly, downloading the cracked software application may furthermore include the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Shariz may take place through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent and even approval.

Avoiding the Shariz ransomware attack.

Obviously, there is no absolute warranty that your computer will be always devoid of any malware attacks, however, we would like to share some beneficial tips with you to make it much safer. Make certain to pay very very close 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 known to you.

Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise include some other additional apps in the bundle. These additional applications might be really 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 logical that downloading pirated programs is prohibited, however, additionally, such unapproved programs usage might likewise bring major damage to your PC. Thus, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the truth that your existing anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Shariz ransomware is a great factor for you to reassess your choices and change to another program that can render the securing functions on a better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Shariz 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:
 gorentos@bitmessage.ch
  
 Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
 gorentos2@firemail.cc
  
 Our Telegram account:
 @datarestore

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

Shariz Ransomware - encrypt files with .shariz extension

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

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can get 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

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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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