The PayDOS ransomware and the associated threat Serpent ransomware are two new malware variants that encrypt target user data and extort money from its victims. Learn how to remove active infections from your computer by following our guide below.
| Name |
PayDOS and Serpent |
| File Extensions |
.dng |
| Ransom |
0.33 Bitcoins |
| Solution #1 |
PayDOS and Serpent ransomware can be removed easily with the help of an anti-malware tool, a program that will clean your computer from the virus, remove any additional cyber-security threats, and protect you in the future. |
|
Solution #2 |
PayDOS and Serpent ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below. |
| Distribution |
The ransomware is spread mainly through spam email messages and untrusted download sites |
PayDOS Ransomware and Serpent Ransomware Description
The two new malware threats – PayDOS ransomware and Serpent ransomware are related strains that are still under active investigation. The names of the viruses are derived from some of the binary files that have served as payload. At this moment it is not certain if they are a strain from one of the famous ransomware families or are an independent project.
The ransomwares were identified in the beginning of November 2016. Upon infection they target specific file name extensions and encrypt them with a strong AES cipher. The list includes the following files:
,avi, .dav, .dgg, .dif, .dng, .dnk, .dov, .dp3, .dp4, .dpg, .drl, .dsi, .dvi, .dxe, .dxt, .exe, .gif, .Ink, .jpg, .mov, .mp3, .mp4, .msi, .ogg, .png, .txt, .url, .wav
What’s interesting about the two threats is that they target important working files such as .dng and .dvi, as well as some of the most popular audio and video formats.
In addition the following directories are also encrypted fully by the encryption engine:
C:\Users\%Username%\AppData\Local
C:\%Username%\Desktop
C:\%Username%\Documents
C:\%Username%\Music
C:\%Username%\Videos
C:\%Username%\Downloads
C:\%Username%\Pictures
Upon infection a ransomware note is crafted inside a “README.TXT” file that reads the following:
I am so sorry you can see me. If you can I have bad news.
It seems all y our files have been encrypted and there is nothing that you can do about this. However with my help I can help you restore them. You need a passcode to decrypt them. Send exactly 0.33 BTC to this address:
You will be send the PASSCODE.
The security research shows that the passcode of the captured malware strains is AES1014D2256
The two ransomware strains are distributed mainly through email spam and malicious applications, counterfeit updates and infected software installers. Some of the captured binaries have also been sent through Skype. Some of the files attributed to infected PayDOS Ransomware binaries included the following:
SPikeSkype_SETUP.exePayDOS Ransomware and Serpent Ransomware Distribution
PayDOS_Ransomware_unlockcode_AES1014DW256.exe
C:\Windows\system32\cmd” /c “”C:\Documents and Settings\
C:\Documents and Settings\
C:\Documents and Settings\
C:\Documents and Settings\
C:\Documents and Settings\
%TEMP%\3E2A.tmp\3E2b.bat C:\PayDOS_Ransomware_unlockcode_AES1014DW256.exe
and others
PayDOS and Serpent Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete PayDOS and Serpent 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 PayDOS and Serpent 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
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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
