Vgui Virus Ransomware
Vgui is a malicious software working as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, very first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Vgui was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as quickly as the file encryption is successfully accomplished, the users are unable to get access to them. Vgui ransomware includes its own “.vgui” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as crypted by Vgui, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.vgui”. Once the encryption is accomplished, Vgui puts its own special text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by text file requesting the random os extremely comparable to the alerts offered by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The warning generally indicates 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 approach to encrypt the files utilized by Vgui is not totally researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be provided an unique decryption key, which is absolutely special. It is incredibly hard to recuperate 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 Vgui virus is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the complete control by the crooks who have actually launched the Vgui virus into the web. In order to obtain the key and bring back the essential information, the users are told to connect with the scams through email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message also states that individuals must get in touch with the Vgui authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information file encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so individuals will obtain a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Vgui crypted your data, nevertheless, it might not be the only hazard on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To identify and erase the danger entirely, we recommend you to describe the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online criminals will keep their promises, 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 a successful healing. So, the users may merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Similarly, we prompt you not to get in touch with the scams as they instruct. Do not transfer money into their wallets. There are no applications that could split the Vgui virus or bring back the information at no charge. Therefore, the only proper decision is to bring back the information from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Vgui Ransomware |
| File Extension | vgui |
| 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 .vgui extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Vgui Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Vgui Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now loaded with infections comparable to the Vgui ransomware. For instance, this particular risk is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful utilities have been established in order to secure the important information and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the identical algorithm to create the specific key for successful data decryption.
Unless the Vgui ransomware is still under the development process or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to restore the data by hand. Hence, the only working service to avoid the loss of your essential data is to routinely keep current backups of all your important files.
Another crucial piece of suggestions is to save the backups on unique storage not linked to your main computer. For instance, you may keep 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 risky, since the backup may likewise be encrypted by the Vgui ransomware.
Leakages for the Vgui ransomware attack.
Vgui uses numerous paths to infiltrate the susceptible computers. It is not specific what particular method was used in your case, however, the invasion may occur via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly free apps;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites providing free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Vgui may camouflage itself as some real application, for example, through the misleading alerts requiring setup of some software upgrade. This is the most common trick used by the frauds to inject the Vgui ransomware files into the system. This way users partly take part in its installation, without plainly understanding the danger.
Additionally, the scams might send out unsolicited spam email with challenging alerts encouraging the people to open dubious attachments or click some download links, for example, those motivating individuals to open certain images, text files, tax documents and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the harmful links might essentially harm the system. Fake Media Player update alerts may result in the Vgui ransomware seepage. Similarly, downloading the cracked software might furthermore consist of the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, installation of Vgui may take place through some Trojan horses that might be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission and even approval.
Avoiding the Vgui virus attack.
Naturally, there is no absolute assurance that your computer will be always free of any malware attacks, however, we want to share some useful pointers with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay really very close attention while browsing the web and particularly while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, especially if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that particular freeware installer may likewise consist of some other extra apps in the package. These additional applications may be very damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in general to be constantly correctly updated.
It is rather rational that downloading cracked apps is prohibited, nevertheless, additionally, such unapproved software usage might also bring severe damage to your system. Hence, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the fact that your present anti-virus did not protect the system from the Vgui ransomware is an excellent factor for you to reassess your options and change to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Vgui 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 “.vgui” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Vgui 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 vgui files
You can get 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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