BellevueCollegeEncryptor Ransomware
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What is BellevueCollegeEncryptor?
BellevueCollegeEncryptor is a new variant of CryptoWire, a ransomware-type program that was discovered by MalwareHunterTeam. It is designed to encrypt data stored on computers and blackmail victims by forcing them to pay a ransom (purchase a tool required for decryption).
BellevueCollegeEncryptor renames all files by adding the "DesktopReadme" string to the filenames. For example, "1.jpg" becomes "1DesktopReadme.jpg". It also creates two ransom messages ("README.txt" and "INSTRUCTIONS.txt") and places them on the desktop. BellevueCollegeEncryptor displays a pop-up window that is used to enter a decryption key.
The README.txt and INSTRUCTIONS.txt text files states that, if victims are reading these messages, their files have already been encrypted. If victims do not see another (pop-up) window, they should try to disable the anti-virus software, restart their computers, or re-run the file that installed the ransomware.
According to BellevueCollegeEncryptor's developers, the only way to decrypt files is through the pop-up window and using other tools (third party programs) will apparently cause permanent data loss. Furthermore, victims are urged to decrypt their files using the decryption window of 48 hours after encryption.
If not, all files will be deleted permanently and recorded personal details published on 'dark markets'. If there are any problems with using/opening the decryption window, victims are encouraged to contact cyber criminals via the bellevueinject@openmailbox.org email address.
The decryption window should be used to purchase Bitcoins (equivalent to $250) and then send them to the the crypto wallet address provided. BellevueCollegeEncryptor developers must then be contacted using the same email address. The email message must contain the unique identifier, which can be found within the instructions in the decryption window.
They then promise to send a decryption key that must be pasted into the "Enter Purchaced Key" bar. Note that most cyber criminals do not send decryption tools/keys as promised - they take the money (cryptocurrency) and then ignore victims. Unfortunately, only they can provide victims with the correct decryption key or tool.
Ransomware-type programs create encryptions using strong cryptography algorithms (symmetric or asymmetric). Therefore, encryptions are impossible to decrypt without using a specific, unique tool or key. If files are encrypted with ransomware, the best, free option to retrieve files is to restore them using a backup.
Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data:
BellevueCollegeEncryptor shares many similarities with other programs of this type such as Hceem, Hrosas, and Verasto. Cyber criminals often use ransomware to encrypt the files and prevent victims from accessing them unless a ransom is paid. The main differences between them are usually cryptography algorithms used to encrypt data and cost of decryption tools/keys.
The encryptions are impossible to decrypt without the involvement of cyber criminals and using their tools, unless the program contains bugs/flaws or is still in development. Therefore, maintain backups and store them on an unplugged storage device or remote server such as Cloud.
How did ransomware infect my computer?
Typically, developers (cyber criminals) proliferate their ransomware-type programs using spam email campaigns, Trojans, untrustworthy software download sources, fake, unofficial software updaters and 'cracking' tools. They proliferate ransomware through spam campaigns by sending emails that include malicious attachments.
In most cases, attached files are MS Office documents, executables (.exe files), archives such as RAR, ZIP, PDF documents and JavaScript files. Note, however, that they can cause damage (installation of malicious programs) only if they are opened. Another way to proliferate ransomware is through Trojans.
These are malicious programs that, once installed, proliferate other viruses. Furthermore, cyber criminals use untrustworthy sources such as Peer-to-Peer networks, freeware download or file hosting websites, unofficial pages, software downloaders as tools to proliferate ransomware and other infections.
They achieve this by presenting infected files as harmless, legitimate files. By downloading and opening them, people infect their computers. Fake software updaters exploit outdated software bugs/flaws or download malware rather than updates and fixes. Another popular way to proliferate ransomware is through software 'cracking' tools.
People use them to bypass paid software activation, however, in some cases, these tools install ransomware-type (and other malicious) programs.
| Name | BellevueCollegeEncryptor virus |
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker. |
| Encrypted Files Extension | DesktopReadme |
| Ransom Demanding Message | README.txt and INSTRUCTIONS.txt files, pop-up window |
| Ransom Amount | $250 (in Bitcoins) |
| Cyber Criminal Contact | bellevueinject@openmailbox.org |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win32:Trojan-gen), BitDefender (AIT:Trojan.Nymeria.723), ESET-NOD32 (a variant of Win32/Filecoder.NHN), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Generic), 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?
Study each email before opening any file attached to it. If the email is received from an unknown, suspicious email address or is irrelevant, do not open the attachment or presented website link. The safest way to download software is using official and trustworthy sources/websites.
Installed software should be up-to-date, however, this should be achieved using implemented functions or tools provided by official software developers. If (installed) software requires payment, it should be activated properly. Various 'cracking' tools should not be used - they are illegal and are often used as tools to proliferate computer infections.
Have anti-spyware or anti-virus software installed and enabled. These tools detect and eliminate threats before they can do any damage. If your computer is already infected with BellevueCollegeEncryptor, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.
Screenshot of BellevueCollegeEncryptor text file ("README.txt"):
Text presented in BellevueCollegeEncryptor ransomware text files ("readme.txt" and "INSTRUCTIONS.txt"):
If you are seeing this message your files are already encrypted.
VERY IMPORTANT READ CAREFULLY
You should now see a window offering you to restore your computer files.
If you do not see this window, you will need to rerun the program, disable antivirus, or restart the computer.
Getting this window to open is the only way to get your files back.
Any attempt to use third party programs to recover the files is guranteed to corrupt them
This ransomware is custom programmed at every deployment to ensure of this.
Failure to see the decryption window and failure to follow the instructions
Will cause all the files to be permanetly deleted and any personal information collected will be published on dark markets.
You have 48 hours from the creation of this TXT file.
Can't get decryption window or for serious questions email BellevueInject@openmailbox.org
Moralizing, preaching, or any non mission critical emails will result in deletion of your files.
Screenshot of BellevueCollegeEncryptor pop-up window:
Text presented in this pop-up window:
Your institution was hacked. If you are reading this message we have successfully blocked you from accessing your personal files.
The only way you can recover your files is to buy a decryption key.
The payment method is: Bitcoins.
The price is: $250 = 0.04710299 Bitcoins (BTC)You have 48 hours from seeing this message to send $250 in Bitcoins to Bitcoin address: bc1q2m68av8knhz9zkexzz8dn8ll9wyxz76ss47upm
We do not include a count down timer for added pressure. Failure to pay within 48 hours will automatically delete your decryption key from our server and you will permanetly lose your files. This software is custom tailored at every deployment. Using any third party decryption software will permanetly destroy your files. Typing in the wrong key too many times will also permanetly lock your files. The only way to recover your files is to send the bitcoins to the mentioned address.
The good news is that we target coorporations and institutions.
Over 90% of our victims get reimbursed by their company or institution as the breach happens from their server end. This is not your fault. Follow the instruction in the order provided and you will get your files and money back.
First you need to buy Bitcoins. Click Buy Bitcoins to get a list of services that allow you to buy and send Bitcoin.
You can use any service even ones not listed. Coinbase is most trusted, popular, and easy to understand. Create an account, buy the above mentioned Bitcoin (BTC) quantity [eg. 0.04568795].
It will take about 30 minutes for the Bitcoin to appear in your account. When it does, find the button to send the bitcoins. Send them to the mentioned address.30 minutes after sending us bitcoins, the hidden 48 hour countdown will automatically stop.
After payment, send an email to: BellevueInject@openmailbox.org
Send us your unique identifier: -
We will respond within 12 hours with your decryption key after receiving your email.
Paste your decryption key into this program and click Decrypt Files.
All your files will be restored and all background processes relating to this program will permanently disappear.Your company or institution should be well aware of this attack a couple days after this. They should see all affected addresses. If they do not contact you offering reimbursement in a couple days, feel free to ask them. The exploit happened from their end. Over 90% of our victims get their money back.
PS: Time is running out. Wasting any of it just decreases your chances of getting your files back.
The appearance of BellevueCollegeEncryptor ransomware pop-up (GIF):
Screenshot of files encrypted by BellevueCollegeEncryptor (added "DesktopReadme" string at the end of each filename):
BellevueCollegeEncryptor 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:
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Video suggesting what steps should be taken in case of a ransomware infection:
Quick menu:
- What is BellevueCollegeEncryptor 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.
Outstanding!
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