Revenge (.REVENGE) ransomware virus – removal and decryption options
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of malware is Revenge?
Revenge is a new variant of a ransomware-type virus called CryptoMix. It is also very similar to CryptoShield (another variant of CryptoMix ransomware). Criminals proliferate Revenge via a RIG Exploit Kit. They hack various websites and inject Javascript code that searches for visitors' computer vulnerabilities and attempts to install this ransomware.
Following infiltration, Revenge terminates a number of processes (to get access to various data) and starts encrypting files using AES-256 cryptography. In addition, this virus renames encrypted files using the "[32_random_characters].REVENGE" pattern. For instance, "sample.jpg" might be renamed to "G89AL1H0PJM34GNHEQBYF2DAZM820K4L.REVENGE" or similar.
Furthermore, Revenge runs several commands to delete Shadow Volume Copies and disable Windows Startup Recovery. It then creates a text file ("# !!!HELP_FILE!!! #.txt"), placing it in each folder containing encrypted files.
Screenshot of files encrypted by Revenge ransomware:
Revenge ransomware overview
The text file contains a ransom-demand message in English, Italian, German, Polish, and Korean, detailing the encryption and encouraging victims to buy a decryption tool. To do this, they must contact cyber criminals via one of the email addresses ("rev00@india.com", "revenge00@writeme.com", and "rev_reserv@india.com") provided.
They then supposedly receive payment instructions. It is also stated that victims are able to attach one selected file, which will then be decrypted and returned - supposedly to prove that decryption is possible. As mentioned above, Revenge uses AES-256 cryptography and, thus, decryption without a unique key is impossible.
This key is stored on a remote server controlled by cyber criminals - victims are, thus, encouraged to buying decryption software with an embedded key. The cost is currently unconfirmed, however, these criminals often ignore victims once payments are submitted.
Therefore, never attempt to contact these people or pay any ransom. There is a high probability that paying will not deliver any positive result - you will simply be scammed. Unfortunately, there are no tools capable of decrypting files compromised by Revenge malware and you can only restore your files/system from a backup.
Ransomware examples
The Internet is full of ransomware-type viruses virtually identical to Revenge including, for example, Karmen, FileLocker, FadeSoft, and many others. All of these viruses have identical behavior - they encrypt files. There are just two major differences: 1) type of encryption algorithm [symmetric/asymmetric] used, and; 2) cost of decryption.
How did ransomware infect my computer?
Cyber criminals often distribute ransomware using fake software updaters, trojans, torrents and other third party software download sources (torrents, eMule, free file hosting websites, freeware download websites, etc.), and spam emails (malicious attachments).
| Name | Revenge virus |
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker |
| Encrypted Files Extension | .REVENGE (files are renamed to a string of 32 random characters) |
| Ransom Demanding Message | # !!!HELP_FILE!!! #.txt |
| Free Decryptor Available? | No |
| Cyber Criminal Contact | rev00@india.com, revenge00@writeme.com, and rev_reserv@india.com |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win32:Evo-gen [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Heur.Mint.Zitirez.gy0@b0rKigoiOc), ESET-NOD32 (Multiple Detections), Kaspersky (Trojan-Spy.Win32.BitWall.wk), Malwarebytes (Generic.Ransom.FileCryptor.DDS), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | Cannot open files stored on your computer, previously functional files now have a different extension (for example, my.docx.locked). A ransom demand message is displayed on your desktop. Cyber criminals demand payment of a ransom (usually in bitcoins) to unlock your files. |
| Distribution methods | Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads. |
| Damage | All files are encrypted and cannot be opened without paying a ransom. Additional password-stealing trojans and malware infections can be installed together with a ransomware infection. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
How to protect yourself from ransomware infections?
The key to computer safety is caution. Therefore, download only from official and verified channels. Keep installed applications up-to-date and use a legitimate anti-virus/anti-spyware suite.
Furthermore, never open files and links received from suspicious emails. Be vigilant when browsing since the Internet is rife with deceptive and malicious content.
If your computer is already infected with Revenge, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.
Screenshot of Revenge ransomware's text file ("# !!!HELP_FILE!!! #.txt"):
Text presented in this message:
===ENGLISH===
All of your files were encrypted using REVENGE Ransomware.
The action required to restore the files.
Your files are not lost, they can be returned to their normal state by decoding them.
The only way to do this is to get the software and your personal decryption key.
Using any other software that claims to be able to recover your files will result in corrupted or destroyed files.
You can purchase the software and the decryption key by sending us an email with your ID.
And we send instructions for payment .
After payment, you receive the software to return all files.
For proof, we can decrypt one file for free. Attach it to an e-mail.
===ITALIAN===
Tutti i file sono stati crittografati utilizzando REVENGE ransomware.
L'azione richiesta per ripristinare i file.
I file non sono persi, possono essere restituiti al loro normale stato di loro decodifica.
L'unico modo per farlo è quello di ottenere il software e la decrittografia personale chiave.
L'uso di qualsiasi altro software che sostiene di essere in grado di recuperare i file si tradurrà in file danneggiati o distrutti.
È possibile acquistare la chiave di software e decifratura con l'invio di una e-mail con il tuo ID.
E mandiamo le istruzioni per il pagamento.
Dopo il pagamento, si riceve il software per ripristinare tutti i file.
Per dimostrare che siamo in grado di decodificare il file. Inviaci un file di e-mail.
===GERMAN===
Alle Dateien wurden mit REVENGE Ransomware verschlüsselt.
Die notwendigen Schritte, um die Dateien wiederherzustellen.
Die Dateien werden nicht verloren, können sie dekodiert werden.
Der einzige Weg, zu tun ist, um die Software zu erhalten, und den privaten Schlüssel zu entschlüsseln.
Mit Software, die auf Ihre Dateien zu können behauptet, bewegen als Folge von beschädigten oder zerstörten Dateien wiederhergestellt werden.
Sie können die Software und Entschlüsselungsschlüssel erwerben, indem Sie uns per E-Mail Ihre ID senden.
Und wir werden Anweisungen für die Zahlung senden.
Nach der Bezahlung werden Sie eine Rückkehr von Software erhalten, die alle Dateien wiederherstellen würde.
Um zu beweisen, dass wir eine Datei kostenlos entschlüsseln kann. Anhängen einer Datei an eine E-Mail.
===POLISH===
Wszystkie pliki zostały zaszyfrowane przy użyciu REVENGE szkodnika.
Konieczne działania w celu przywrócenia plików.
Pliki nie są tracone, mogą one zostać zwrócone do swojego normalnego stanu poprzez ich dekodowania.
Jedynym sposobem na to jest, aby oprogramowanie i swój osobisty klucz deszyfrowania.
Korzystanie z innego oprogramowania, które twierdzi, że jest w stanie odzyskać pliki spowoduje uszkodzonych lub zniszczonych plików.
Można kupić oprogramowanie i klucz deszyfrowania wysyłając do nas e-maila z ID.
A my wyślemy instrukcje dotyczące płatności.
Po dokonaniu płatności otrzymasz oprogramowanie do zwrotu plików.
W celu udowodnienia, że możemy odszyfrować plik. Dołączyć go do wiadomości e-mail.
===KOREAN===
모든 파일은 REVENGE Ransomware를 사용하여 암호화되었습니다.
파일을 복원하는 데 필요한 작업.
파일은 손실되지 않으며 디코딩하여 정상 상태로 되돌릴 수 있습니다.
이를 수행하는 유일한 방법은 소프트웨어와 개인 암호 해독 키를 얻는 것입니다.
파일을 복구 할 수 있다고 주장하는 다른 소프트웨어를 사용하면 파일이 손상되거나 파손됩니다.
신분증을 이메일로 보내 소프트웨어 및 암호 해독 키를 구입할 수 있습니다.
그리고 우리는 지불 지시를 보낸다.
지불 후 모든 파일을 반환하는 소프트웨어를 받게됩니다.
우리는 무료로 하나의 파일의 암호를 해독 할 수 있습니다. 전자 메일 파일을 보내 주시기 바랍니다.
CONTACT E-MAILS:
EMAIL: rev00@india.com
EMAIL: revenge00@writeme.com
EMAIL: rev_reserv@india.com
ID (PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION): 1E857D004DFB70F4
Screenshot of the first pop-up displayed during file encryption:
Screenshot of the second pop-up displayed during file encryption:
Revenge ransomware removal:
Instant automatic malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner
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Video suggesting what steps should be taken in case of a ransomware infection:
Quick menu:
- What is Revenge virus?
- STEP 1. Reporting ransomware to authorities.
- STEP 2. Isolating the infected device.
- STEP 3. Identifying the ransomware infection.
- STEP 4. Searching for ransomware decryption tools.
- STEP 5. Restoring files with data recovery tools.
- STEP 6. Creating data backups.
If you are a victim of a ransomware attack we recommend reporting this incident to authorities. By providing information to law enforcement agencies you will help track cybercrime and potentially assist in the prosecution of the attackers. Here's a list of authorities where you should report a ransomware attack. For the complete list of local cybersecurity centers and information on why you should report ransomware attacks, read this article.
List of local authorities where ransomware attacks should be reported (choose one depending on your residence address):
USA - Internet Crime Complaint Centre IC3
United Kingdom - Action Fraud
Spain - Policía Nacional
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Germany - Polizei
Italy - Polizia di Stato
The Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Isolating the infected device:
Some ransomware-type infections are designed to encrypt files within external storage devices, infect them, and even spread throughout the entire local network. For this reason, it is very important to isolate the infected device (computer) as soon as possible.
Step 1: Disconnect from the internet.
The easiest way to disconnect a computer from the internet is to unplug the Ethernet cable from the motherboard, however, some devices are connected via a wireless network and for some users (especially those who are not particularly tech-savvy), disconnecting cables may seem troublesome. Therefore, you can also disconnect the system manually via Control Panel:
Navigate to the "Control Panel", click the search bar in the upper-right corner of the screen, enter "Network and Sharing Center" and select search result: 
Click the "Change adapter settings" option in the upper-left corner of the window: 
Right-click on each connection point and select "Disable". Once disabled, the system will no longer be connected to the internet. To re-enable the connection points, simply right-click again and select "Enable". 
Step 2: Unplug all storage devices.
As mentioned above, ransomware might encrypt data and infiltrate all storage devices that are connected to the computer. For this reason, all external storage devices (flash drives, portable hard drives, etc.) should be disconnected immediately, however, we strongly advise you to eject each device before disconnecting to prevent data corruption:
Navigate to "My Computer", right-click on each connected device, and select "Eject": 
Step 3: Log-out of cloud storage accounts.
Some ransomware-type might be able to hijack software that handles data stored within "the Cloud". Therefore, the data could be corrupted/encrypted. For this reason, you should log-out of all cloud storage accounts within browsers and other related software. You should also consider temporarily uninstalling the cloud-management software until the infection is completely removed.
Identify the ransomware infection:
To properly handle an infection, one must first identify it. Some ransomware infections use ransom-demand messages as an introduction (see the WALDO ransomware text file below).
This, however, is rare. In most cases, ransomware infections deliver more direct messages simply stating that data is encrypted and that victims must pay some sort of ransom. Note that ransomware-type infections typically generate messages with different file names (for example, "_readme.txt", "READ-ME.txt", "DECRYPTION_INSTRUCTIONS.txt", "DECRYPT_FILES.html", etc.). Therefore, using the name of a ransom message may seem like a good way to identify the infection. The problem is that most of these names are generic and some infections use the same names, even though the delivered messages are different and the infections themselves are unrelated. Therefore, using the message filename alone can be ineffective and even lead to permanent data loss (for example, by attempting to decrypt data using tools designed for different ransomware infections, users are likely to end up permanently damaging files and decryption will no longer be possible even with the correct tool).
Another way to identify a ransomware infection is to check the file extension, which is appended to each encrypted file. Ransomware infections are often named by the extensions they append (see files encrypted by Qewe ransomware below).
This method is only effective, however, when the appended extension is unique - many ransomware infections append a generic extension (for example, ".encrypted", ".enc", ".crypted", ".locked", etc.). In these cases, identifying ransomware by its appended extension becomes impossible.
One of the easiest and quickest ways to identify a ransomware infection is to use the ID Ransomware website. This service supports most existing ransomware infections. Victims simply upload a ransom message and/or one encrypted file (we advise you to upload both if possible).
The ransomware will be identified within seconds and you will be provided with various details, such as the name of the malware family to which the infection belongs, whether it is decryptable, and so on.
Example 1 (Qewe [Stop/Djvu] ransomware):
Example 2 (.iso [Phobos] ransomware):
If your data happens to be encrypted by ransomware that is not supported by ID Ransomware, you can always try searching the internet by using certain keywords (for example, a ransom message title, file extension, provided contact emails, crypto wallet addresses, etc.).
Search for ransomware decryption tools:
Encryption algorithms used by most ransomware-type infections are extremely sophisticated and, if the encryption is performed properly, only the developer is capable of restoring data. This is because decryption requires a specific key, which is generated during the encryption. Restoring data without the key is impossible. In most cases, cybercriminals store keys on a remote server, rather than using the infected machine as a host. Dharma (CrySis), Phobos, and other families of high-end ransomware infections are virtually flawless, and thus restoring data encrypted without the developers' involvement is simply impossible. Despite this, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain a number of flaws (for example, the use of identical encryption/decryption keys for each victim, keys stored locally, etc.). Therefore, always check for available decryption tools for any ransomware that infiltrates your computer.
Finding the correct decryption tool on the internet can be very frustrating. For this reason, we recommend that you use the No More Ransom Project and this is where identifying the ransomware infection is useful. The No More Ransom Project website contains a "Decryption Tools" section with a search bar. Enter the name of the identified ransomware, and all available decryptors (if there are any) will be listed.
Restore files with data recovery tools:
Depending on the situation (quality of ransomware infection, type of encryption algorithm used, etc.), restoring data with certain third-party tools might be possible. Therefore, we advise you to use the Recuva tool developed by CCleaner. This tool supports over a thousand data types (graphics, video, audio, documents, etc.) and it is very intuitive (little knowledge is necessary to recover data). In addition, the recovery feature is completely free.
Step 1: Perform a scan.
Run the Recuva application and follow the wizard. You will be prompted with several windows allowing you to choose what file types to look for, which locations should be scanned, etc. All you need to do is select the options you're looking for and start the scan. We advise you to enable the "Deep Scan" before starting, otherwise, the application's scanning capabilities will be restricted.
Wait for Recuva to complete the scan. The scanning duration depends on the volume of files (both in quantity and size) that you are scanning (for example, several hundred gigabytes could take over an hour to scan). Therefore, be patient during the scanning process. We also advise against modifying or deleting existing files, since this might interfere with the scan. If you add additional data (for example, downloading files/content) while scanning, this will prolong the process:
Step 2: Recover data.
Once the process is complete, select the folders/files you wish to restore and simply click "Recover". Note that some free space on your storage drive is necessary to restore data:
Create data backups:
Proper file management and creating backups is essential for data security. Therefore, always be very careful and think ahead.
Partition management: We recommend that you store your data in multiple partitions and avoid storing important files within the partition that contains the entire operating system. If you fall into a situation whereby you cannot boot the system and are forced to format the disk on which the operating system is installed (in most cases, this is where malware infections hide), you will lose all data stored within that drive. This is the advantage of having multiple partitions: if you have the entire storage device assigned to a single partition, you will be forced to delete everything, however, creating multiple partitions and allocating the data properly allows you to prevent such problems. You can easily format a single partition without affecting the others - therefore, one will be cleaned and the others will remain untouched, and your data will be saved. Managing partitions is quite simple and you can find all the necessary information on Microsoft's documentation web page.
Data backups: One of the most reliable backup methods is to use an external storage device and keep it unplugged. Copy your data to an external hard drive, flash (thumb) drive, SSD, HDD, or any other storage device, unplug it and store it in a dry place away from the sun and extreme temperatures. This method is, however, quite inefficient, since data backups and updates need to be made regularly. You can also use a cloud service or remote server. Here, an internet connection is required and there is always the chance of a security breach, although it's a really rare occasion.
We recommend using Microsoft OneDrive for backing up your files. OneDrive lets you store your personal files and data in the cloud, sync files across computers and mobile devices, allowing you to access and edit your files from all of your Windows devices. OneDrive lets you save, share and preview files, access download history, move, delete, and rename files, as well as create new folders, and much more.
You can back up your most important folders and files on your PC (your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders). Some of OneDrive’s more notable features include file versioning, which keeps older versions of files for up to 30 days. OneDrive features a recycling bin in which all of your deleted files are stored for a limited time. Deleted files are not counted as part of the user’s allocation.
The service is built using HTML5 technologies and allows you to upload files up to 300 MB via drag and drop into the web browser or up to 10 GB via the OneDrive desktop application. With OneDrive, you can download entire folders as a single ZIP file with up to 10,000 files, although it can’t exceed 15 GB per single download.
OneDrive comes with 5 GB of free storage out of the box, with an additional 100 GB, 1 TB, and 6 TB storage options available for a subscription-based fee. You can get one of these storage plans by either purchasing additional storage separately or with Office 365 subscription.
Creating a data backup:
The backup process is the same for all file types and folders. Here’s how you can back up your files using Microsoft OneDrive
Step 1: Choose the files/folders you want to backup.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon to open the OneDrive menu. While in this menu, you can customize your file backup settings.
Click Help & Settings and then select Settings from the drop-down menu.
Go to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
In this menu, you can choose to backup the Desktop and all of the files on it, and Documents and Pictures folders, again, with all of the files in them. Click Start backup.
Now, when you add a file or folder in the Desktop and Documents and Pictures folders, they will be automatically backed up on OneDrive.
To add folders and files, not in the locations shown above, you have to add them manually.
Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of the folder/file you want to backup. Select the item, right-click it, and click Copy.
Then, navigate to OneDrive, right-click anywhere in the window and click Paste. Alternatively, you can just drag and drop a file into OneDrive. OneDrive will automatically create a backup of the folder/file.
All of the files added to the OneDrive folder are backed up in the cloud automatically. The green circle with the checkmark in it indicates that the file is available both locally and on OneDrive and that the file version is the same on both. The blue cloud icon indicates that the file has not been synced and is available only on OneDrive. The sync icon indicates that the file is currently syncing.
To access files only located on OneDrive online, go to the Help & Settings drop-down menu and select View online.
Step 2: Restore corrupted files.
OneDrive makes sure that the files stay in sync, so the version of the file on the computer is the same version on the cloud. However, if ransomware has encrypted your files, you can take advantage of OneDrive’s Version history feature that will allow you to restore the file versions prior to encryption.
Microsoft 365 has a ransomware detection feature that notifies you when your OneDrive files have been attacked and guide you through the process of restoring your files. It must be noted, however, that if you don’t have a paid Microsoft 365 subscription, you only get one detection and file recovery for free.
If your OneDrive files get deleted, corrupted, or infected by malware, you can restore your entire OneDrive to a previous state. Here’s how you can restore your entire OneDrive:
1. If you're signed in with a personal account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Options and select Restore your OneDrive.
If you're signed in with a work or school account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Restore your OneDrive.
2. On the Restore your OneDrive page, select a date from the drop-down list. Note that if you're restoring your files after automatic ransomware detection, a restore date will be selected for you.
3. After configuring all of the file restoration options, click Restore to undo all the activities you selected.
The best way to avoid damage from ransomware infections is to maintain regular up-to-date backups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How was my computer hacked and how did hackers encrypt my files?
Victims themselves often open ransomware executables, as they are typically disguised as regular content. This malware is mainly spread via trojans, drive-by downloads, online scams, spam emails/messages, dubious download channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), illegal software activation tools ("cracks"), and fake updates.
How to open ".REVENGE" files?
Encrypted files cannot be opened/used unless they are decrypted.
Where should I look for free decryption tools for Revenge ransomware?
In case of a ransomware infection, we recommend looking up the No More Ransom project website (more information above).
I can pay you a lot of money, can you decrypt files for me?
We do not offer services of this kind. In fact, aside from cases involving severely flawed ransomware, decryption is impossible without the cyber criminals' interference. Therefore, it is common for third-parties offering paid decryption to be scams or aim to act as middlemen between victims and criminals.
Will Combo Cleaner help me remove Revenge ransomware?
Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate active ransomware infections. Keep in mind that while using an anti-virus is the first step in ransomware recovery, security programs are incapable of decrypting files
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