Demo Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The Demo ransomware is a new ransomware strain that has recently been reported. Learn more about it and how to remove active infections by readind our guide below.

Demo Ransomware Description

The demo ransomware is a new ransomware strain that has recently been reported by the malware researcher Karsteh Han. According to the released information this is a proof-of-concept malware that probably has been developed by inexperienced computer developers as it only affects files with the JPG extension.

The virus encrypts the target user data and appends the .encrypted extension and then displays a ransom note placed in a HELP_YOUR_FILES.txt file. The message is written in German and a rough machine translation reads the following:

There were 0 of your personal image files encrypted with AES-256.
Only we are able to restore your files.
Please pay 0.5 BTC to the at https://www.criminall-website.ru
Specified bitcoin address.
After receipt of payment, you will receive a program with which you can restore your files
Can be restored.
You will need the following information

Key: qjrn1LMbHH38BLiSKIHpUjL7X62QB/BLDGyOeln4Fqv6NnzMvsbZ/
Mrlbc4qRKJssHtMqRCMoMqeuR4Xj+ZrFrALWTgBPHEqPD3mLYotYZ04ki/
cW0DaiG4u2KLZYgOSdz6aL7fJbGGEbx7cB9Vjb/F+vjHnnI5Vyu0Dfn3n7W2rDZepxyLY8wY
+92B6caa
+wPI2VC5FyQtg8fA5zgDuSxGjqskXlslZx1950VScmmE3VIsAGle7llDmkYic1Z5FmNlu3qhQNBx
r5A3pD0+jaiPVWM6603rSsYDV84j70EhkFs2nHvHZMyqNblR0J/FkvC1w==

IV: QFkTDoYFLRnBqKoFsk1vQlQKASei/ccqrPm5WjJRWOyxCmZTqKOhumr1kUiKA
+7F7cGj59WrNRuRCJjaShEK/0GipcYwjM8CDVSfw0YKecxG9C4RL4sQDyBzU1WkiZpUbQbtntNES
+f+qmT/kJQmQrZspS2BDFX+S1LxOotCjunxcvBLCjg
+sTXuNsD/9iiNf25IVgWeRjPCfuuJ7MrhocUkB21WfWx27DqR52UVN3jbcTT0WtYcEAWrVOo
+pPdtqNODPe7THMh55J2/072cZcMOMI8j/
PzVY4iaQlthvZj5kQbxuvbAuHsaIaipv/82o2o0DDeXI9IpY8lu8Q==

Demo Ransomware Distribution

A very limited number of the Demo Ransomware malware have been identfiied. We presume that the most likely infection vector is email spam being generated by the criminal developers of the threat.

Demo Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Demo completely with a few mouse clicks.

STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.

1) Hit WIN Key + R

2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK

Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”

STEP II: Show Hidden Files

1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
– Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option

3) Windows 8/ 10

– Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option



4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button

STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes

1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it

STEP IV: Remove Completely Demo Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

STEP V: Repair Windows Registry

1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys

Further help for Windows Registry repair

STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files

1) Use present backups
2) Restore your personal files using File History
– Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar



– Hit the “Restore” button

3) Using System Restore Point

– Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures

1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter