Hacking (.hacking) ransomware virus – removal and decryption options

What kind of malware is Hacking?

Hacking is a ransomware-type virus discovered by MalwareHunterTeam. Once infiltrated, Hacking encrypts various information. During encryption, this malware appends filenames with the ".hacking" extension. For instance, "sample.jpg" is renamed to "sample.jpg.hacking".

After successfully encrypting files, this virus generates a text file ("Message_Important.txt"), which contains a ransom-demand message and is placed in each existing folder.

Screenshot of files encrypted by Hacking ransomware:

Hacking ransomware overview

The message informs users of the encryption and states that files can only be restored using a unique decryption key. Unfortunately, this information is accurate. It is currently unknown whether Hacking uses symmetric or asymmetric cryptography. In any case, decryption requires a unique key.

Criminals store this key on a remote server and demand a ransom of €100 to receive it. Unlike other cyber criminals, Hacking's developers do not use the Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency - they demand Neosurf coupons. Therefore, we can assume that these people are not very professional.

Hacking's ransom-demand message is in French and, thus, there is a high probability that criminals target users mainly from France. In any case, these people cannot be trusted. Research shows that cyber criminals commonly ignore victims once payments are submitted.

Paying does not guarantee that your files will ever be decrypted and you will probably be scammed. We strongly advise you to ignore all requests to contact these people or pay any ransoms - you will lose your money and support cyber criminals' malicious businesses.

Unfortunately, there are currently no tools capable of cracking Hacking's encryption and restoring files free of charge. The only solution is to restore your files/system from a backup.

Ransomware examples

Hacking is virtually identical to Gr3g, Decoder, Losers, Matrix, and dozens of other ransomware-type viruses. Note that all are developed by different cyber criminals, however, their behavior is identical. All encrypt data and make ransom demands. The only major differences are size of ransom and type of encryption algorithm used.

Unfortunately, most of these viruses employ cryptographies (e.g., AES, RSA, etc.) that generate unique decryption keys. Therefore, unless the malware contains flaws/bugs (e.g., stores the locally or it is hard-coded), restoring files manually, without involvement of developers (contacting these people is not recommended) is impossible.

Therefore, ransomware-type viruses present a strong for maintaining regular data backups. These backups should be stored on external (unplugged) hard drives or a remote server, otherwise they will also be encrypted.

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Most ransomware-type viruses are proliferated using spam emails (malicious attachments), unofficial software download sources (torrents, eMule, free file hosting websites, freeware download websites, etc.), fake software updaters, and trojans. Malicious attachments are usually (but not always) delivered in the format of JavaScript files or MS Office documents with macros.

Once opened, these attachments download and install malware. Third party software download/sources often present malicious executables as legitimate software. Therefore, users are often tricked into downloading and installing malware. Fake software updaters infect the system by misusing outdated software bugs/flaws.

Trojans are the simplest ones - they merely open "gates" for other malware to infiltrate the system. The main reasons for computer infections are careless behavior and lack of knowledge of these risks.

Threat Summary:

Name	Hacking virus
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker
Encrypted Files Extension	.hacking
Ransom Demanding Message	Message_Important.txt
Ransom Amount	€100 worth of Neosurf coupons or $250 in Bitcoin cryptocurrency (varies by variant)
Cyber Criminal Cryptowallet	bc1q8hzsch3mm7vm7g0mvs4du047e43kddmwy7j0ax (Bitcoin)
Free Decryptor Available?	No
Cyber Criminal Contact	fbi-cybercrimedivision@hotmail.com
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (DeepScan:Generic.Ransom.GarrantDecr), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.OMJ), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic), Microsoft (Ransom:Win32/MedusaLocker.PA!MTB), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal)
Symptoms	Can't open files stored on your computer, previously functional files now have a different extension, for example my.docx.locked. A ransom demanding message is displayed on your desktop. Cyber criminals are asking to pay 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. ▼ Download Combo Cleaner To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

How to protect yourself from ransomware infections?

The key to computer safety is caution. Therefore, be very cautious when browsing the Internet. Never open attachments received from suspicious/unrecognizable email addresses. In fact, these emails should be deleted without reading. Furthermore, never use third party download/installation tools, since they often stealthily install malicious programs.

Your desired software should be downloaded from official sources using a direct download link. Keep installed applications updated and use a legitimate anti-virus/anti-spyware suite, however, bear in mind that criminals proliferate malware by employing fake updaters. Therefore, using unofficial tools to update installed apps is very risky.

Screenshot of Hacking ransomware's text file ("Message_Important.txt"):

Text presented in this text file:

instruction à faire pour récupérer la clé de décryptage de vos fichiers crypter

email de contact : fbi-cybercrimedivision@hotmail.com

 

1) acheter des coupons neosurf de 100€ ,euros .
2) vous pouvez acheter les coupons neosurf ici https://www.recharge.fr/carte-neosurf
3) vous pouvez aussi acheter les coupons neosurf ici https://www.neosurf.com/fr_FR ou dans les bureaux de tabac
4) dès que je reçois les coupons neosurf ,je vous envoie la clé de décryptage par email.
Contact Email : fbi-cybercrimedivision@hotmail.com

Screenshot of the website selling Neosurf coupons:

Appearance of a ransom note delivered by another variant of Hacking ransomware:

Text presented within:

1) French Version :

 Vos fichiers sont cryptés avec chiffrement RSA-2048 et AES-128.

Décrypter vos fichiers est uniquement possible à l'aide d'une clé privée et un programme de décryptage

 Qui se trouvent sur notre serveur secret, il s'agit d'un ransomware et non pas de virus.

Pour décrypter vos fichiers, veuillez suivre les instructions suivantes :

instruction à faire pour nous aider à décrypter vos fichiers :

1)Achetez des bitcoins de 250 $ ,USD
bc1q8hzsch3mm7vm7g0mvs4du047e43kddmwy7j0ax
2)Vous pouvez acheter rapidement les bitcoins ici  hxxps://localbitcoins.com

3)Envoyez les bitcoins à cette adresse :   your wallet bitcoins

4)Dès qu'on reçoit les bitcoins ,on décrypte vos fichiers  :  your-email

2) English version :

Your files are encrypted with RSA-2048 and AES-128 encryption.

Decrypting your files is only possible using a private key and a decryption program,

Which are on our secret server, it is a ransomware and not viruses.
 
To decrypt your files, please follow these instructions :

instruction to help us decrypt your files :

1) Buy bitcoins from 100 $ ,USD

2) You can buy bitcoins quickly here : hxxps://localbitcoins.com

3) Send bitcoins to this address  :   your wallet bitcoins

4) As soon as we receive the bitcoins, we decrypt your files :  your-email

Hacking 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 By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Video suggesting what steps should be taken in case of a ransomware infection:

Quick menu:

• What is Hacking 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.

Reporting ransomware to authorities:

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 usually disguised as ordinary content. This malware is primarily spread via malicious attachments or links in spam emails/messages, drive-by downloads, online scams, malvertising, untrustworthy download sources (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), illegal program activation tools ("cracks"), and fake updates.

How to open ".hacking" files?

Encrypted files can neither be opened nor otherwise used – unless they are decrypted.

Where should I look for free decryption tools for Hacking ransomware?

In case of a ransomware attack, we advise you to check out 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 provide decryption services. In fact, aside from cases involving deeply flawed ransomware, decryption is rarely possible without the attackers' interference. Hence, third-parties offering paid decryption are often scams or middleman services between victims and criminals.

Will Combo Cleaner help me remove Hacking ransomware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your computer and eliminate active ransomware infections. It must be stressed that while using an anti-virus is the first step in ransomware recovery – security programs cannot restore encrypted data.

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