Sodinokibi ransomware virus - removal and decryption options

What kind of malware is Sodinokibi?

Discovered by S!Ri, Sodinokibi (also known as REvil or Sodin) is a ransomware-type program created by cyber criminals. They use it to encrypt files stored on victims' computers and prevent people from accessing them files until they have paid a ransom. Malware researchers call it Sodinokibi, however, developers have not yet provided an official name.

This ransomware places ransom messages in folders that contain encrypted files. The name of the text file depends on the extension added to the encrypted file. For example, if the extension is ".686l0tek69" (and the encrypted file is renamed from, for example, "1.jpg" to "1.jpg.686l0tek69"), the ransom message filename will be called "686l0tek69-HOW-TO-DECRYPT.txt". Sodinokibi also changes the wallpaper.

As of September 2021, Sodinokibi ransomware is decryptable. Bitdefender offers a free decryption tool for this malware.

Screenshot of files encrypted by Sodinokibi (random extension):

Sodinokibi ransom note overview

The ransom message explains that people who have computers infected with this ransomware can decrypt (recover) their files only by following the instructions provided by the cyber criminals who developed it. To decrypt data, users must visit the websites using one of the two links provided. One should be opened using the Tor browser, and the other with another browser such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, etc.

It is stated that the link/website created for browsers other than Tor could be blocked by the browser, and thus they advise users to use the first website link. In any case, once opened, the website asks users to copy and paste the key provided in the ransom message (.txt file) and to enter the extension name (which is provided in the same text file).

It then opens another page informing victims that they have two days to pay a ransom of $2500. Later, the cost is doubled to $5000. The ransom must be transferred to the Bitcoin wallet address (paid in cryptocurrency) provided. According to cyber criminals, when payment is made, victims should receive three confirmations. They then supposedly reload the website which will create a download link for a decryption tool.

Victims are urged not to try to decrypt their files with other (third party) tools - according to cyber criminals, using them they might cause permanent data loss. Despite this, do not pay developers of this ransomware. Typically, cyber criminals cooperate only until they have received the ransom. After that, most ignore victims and send no tools/keys required for decryption. In summary, people are scammed.

More about ransomware

Typically only the cyber criminals who developed a particular ransomware infection can provide decryption tools. Mostly, cryptography algorithms used to encrypt files are impossible to 'crack' without using specific decryption keys/tools.

The best option in these cases is to restore files using a backup (if one was created before having all files encrypted with the ransomware-type program). However, Sodinokibi ransomware is decryptable as of September 2021. Free decryption tools are offered by Bitdefender.

Similarities between different ransomware variants

Some examples of other ransomware-type programs are BellevueCollegeEncryptor, Hceem, and Hrosas. Most are created to encrypt files and to keep them locked unless a ransom is paid. Any differences are cost of decryption and cryptography algorithm used to encrypt data.

Unfortunately, in most cases, they are impossible to crack, unless ransomware is not fully developed, contains bugs/flaws. To prevent data (and financial) loss caused by ransomware, maintain regular backups and store them on remote servers or unplugged storage devices.

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Some of the most commonly used ways to proliferate ransomware and other malicious programs are spam campaigns, Trojans, fake software updaters, dubious software download sources and software 'cracking' tools.

In spam campaigns, cyber criminals send emails that contain malicious attachments. They present these emails as official and important attempt to trick people into opening attached files, which are usually Microsoft Office and PDF documents, archives such as ZIP, RAR files, JavaScript files, executables (.exe and others), and so on. If opened, they download and install ransomware or other high-risk malware.

If a Trojan is already installed on a computer, it can proliferate other threats. Programs of this type often cause chain infections. Fake software updaters proliferate/install malicious software rather than the expected updates or fixes. These tools can also be used to exploit outdated software flaws, bugs.

Untrustworthy download sources (such as Peer-to-Peer networks, free file hosting websites, unofficial websites and other similar channels) are used to distribute ransomware. Cyber criminals employ these channels to present their malware as harmless files. When people download and open them, they install malicious programs.

By using software 'cracking' tools, people often risk having malicious programs installed. These tools supposedly bypass paid software activation, however, they often cause unwanted installations and computer infections.

Threat Summary:

Name	Sodinokibi virus
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker.
Encrypted Files Extension	Random string.
Ransom Demanding Message	Text file, desktop wallpaper, website.
Ransom Amount	$2500/$5000
Free Decryptor Available?	Yes (more information below)
Cyber Criminal Contact	Website chat.
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:Malware-gen), BitDefender (Trojan.GenericKD.31927370), ESET-NOD32 (a variant of Win32/GenKryptik.DGSJ), Kaspersky (Exploit.Win32.Nekto.lr), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal)
Rogue Process Name	Showing Mcga Wmv Photo Ramsey Married
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. ▼ 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?

Avoid opening attachments in emails that are received from unknown/suspicious addresses. The same applies to web links. The emails are usually presented as important and legitimate, however, they are mostly irrelevant.

Furthermore, use official and trustworthy websites when downloading software and update it using implemented functions or tools provided by the official developers. Note, tools that allow people to avoid paying for software are illegal and often cause computer infections.

To avoid computer infections, have reputable anti-virus/anti-spyware software installed and keep it enabled. If your computer is already infected with Sodinokibi, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Update September 17, 2021 - Bitdefender has released a free decrypter for Sodinokibi ransomware. This decryption tool can be downloaded from Bitdefender's blog.

Screenshot of Bitdefender's decryption tool for Sodinokibi ransomware:

Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data (random-string-HOW-TO-DECRYPT.txt):

Text presented in this text file:

--=== Welcome. Again. ===---

[+] Whats Happen? [+]

Your files are encrypted, and currently unavailable. You can check it: all files on you computer has expansion 686l0tek69.
By the way, everything is possible to recover (restore), but you need to follow our instructions. Otherwise, you cant return your data (NEVER).

[+] What guarantees? [+]

Its just a business. We absolutely do not care about you and your deals, except getting benefits. If we do not do our work and liabilities - nobody will not cooperate with us. Its not in our interests.
To check the ability of returning files, You should go to our website. There you can decrypt one file for free. That is our guarantee.
If you will not cooperate with our service - for us, its does not matter. But you will lose your time and data, cause just we have the private key. In practise - time is much more valuable than money.

[+] How to get access on website? [+]

You have two ways:

1) [Recommended] Using a TOR browser!
  a) Download and install TOR browser from this site: hxxps://torproject.org/
  b) Open our website: hxxp://aplebzu47wgazapdqks6vrcv6zcnjppkbxbr6wketf56nf6aq2nmyoyd.onion/913AED0B5FE1497D

2) If TOR blocked in your country, try to use VPN! But you can use our secondary website. For this:
  a) Open your any browser (Chrome, Firefox, Opera, IE, Edge)
  b) Open our secondary website: http://decryptor.top/913AED0B5FE1497D

Warning: secondary website can be blocked, thats why first variant much better and more available.

When you open our website, put the following data in the input form:
Key:

-

Extension name:

686l0tek69

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

!!! DANGER !!!
DONT try to change files by yourself, DONT use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions - its may entail damge of the private key and, as result, The Loss all data.
!!! !!! !!!
ONE MORE TIME: Its in your interests to get your files back. From our side, we (the best specialists) make everything for restoring, but please should not interfere.
!!! !!! !!!

Screenshot of Sodinokibi website (first page):

Screenshot of Sodinokibi website (second page):

Text presented in a website opened with Tor (second page):

Your computer have been infected!
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files encrypted
To decrypt your files you need to buy our special software - 686l0tek69-Decryptor
You can do it right now. Follow the instructions below. But remember that you do not have much time
686l0tek69-Decryptor costs

You have 2 days, 23:59:17
* If you do not pay on time, the price will be doubled
* Time ends on May 3, 10:44:08
Current price
After time ends
0.47528863 btc
ò 2,500 USD
0.95057726 btc
ò 5,000 USD

Status: No access to download 686l0tek69-Decryptor.

BTC receiving address: 324VH5nPXCKCUGAMAn23nogm2Z6ph97evh
Instructions Chat support
How to buy 686l0tek69-Decryptor?

Create a Bitcoin Wallet (we recommend Blockchain.info)
Buy necessary amount of Bitcoins. Current price for buying is 0.47528863 btc
Send 0.47528863 btc to the following Bitcoin address:
324VH5nPXCKCUGAMAn23nogm2Z6ph97evh

* This receiving address was created for you, to identify your transactions
Wait for 3 confirmations
Reload current page after, and get a link to download 686l0tek69-Decryptor

Guarantees?

Upload your file for test 686l0tek69-Decryptor.

* This file should be an encrypted image. Example

your-file-name.jpg.686l0tek69
your-file-name.png.686l0tek69
your-file-name.gif.686l0tek69

Appearance of Sodinokibi website opened with Tor (GIF):

Screenshot of Sodinokibi desktop wallpaper:

Screenshot of Sodinokibi ransomware process in Task Manager ("Showing Mcga Wmv Photo Ramsey Married")

Screenshots of a chat with cyber criminals about the ransomware name:

Text in the chat:

Researcher Tomas: Where are you from?
Researcher Tomas: What is the name of your ransomware?
Cyber criminal: We don't have name, don't write here.
Researcher Tomas: Researchers are calling this - "Sodinokibi" ransomware. That's not a very nice name, maybe you like to use something else?
Cyber criminal: show me
Researcher Tomas: hxxps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlfYEqAjXUE&feature=youtu.be
Researcher Tomas: You could think of some cooler name than "Sodinokibi".
Cyber criminal: Hm, why this name?
Researcher Tomas: I would guess this is from an executable file name (hxxps://twitter.com/GrujaRS/status/1122051853657739265/photo/1)
Researcher Tomas: What name would you like to use?
Cyber criminal: we don't have name, but give to us few days to think about it
Researcher Tomas: ok, great.

Update May 3rd, 2019 - Research shows that cyber criminals have started exploiting Oracle WebLogic Server vulnerability (CVE-2019-2725) to inject them with malware, including GANDCRAB, Sodinokibi, and various miners, botnets, etc. Fortunately, Oracle has already released a patch to fix the vulnerability. Therefore, if you own this type of server, download and install the patch immediately. You can find detailed information and a download link for the patch in this article.

Update July 11, 2019 - Cyber criminals have recently released an updated variant of Sodinokibi ransomware which is now capable of exploiting Win32k component's vulnerability in Windows 7 through Windows 10 operating systems' server editions. Sodinokibi exploits the vulnerability to enhance its privileges so that it would be able to damage the system even more. We should also mention that Sodinokibi uses multiple encryptions in order to compromise data. It not only encrypts files, but the private key (which is necessary to restore data) is also encrypted. In other words, two keys are necessary for the decryption.

Update September 3rd, 2019 - Cyber criminals have started distributing Sodinokibi ransomware through hijacked legitimate WordPress websites. They inject legitimate sites with a JavaScript that alters the original website's content with a fake Q&A forum post which is typically related to the actual website's content. The post contains a fake answer from site's administrator and the answer contains a link to Sodinokibi's installation setup.

Update October 21, 2019 - Although there are no decryption tools capable of restoring data compromised by Sodinokibi ransomware for free, Emsisoft and Coveware companies have recently found a workaround that can help some victims restore their data. In order to receive help victims should contact Emsisoft's/Coveware's technicians directly via Twitter (@emsisoft or @coveware) or email (support@emsisoft.com or Coveware contact form).

Update December 27, 2019 - Crooks have recently released yet another variant of Sodinokibi ransomware. The behavior is virtually the same - it encrypts data, appends random extension, changes the desktop wallpaper and drops a ransom note. The main difference is text within the ransom note, which now wishes victims "Merry Christmas". The website is slightly updated as well.

Screenshot of updated Sodinokibi's ransom note ("[random_string]-readme.txt"):

Text presented within this file:

---=== Welcome. ===---

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays everyone!
You have a great opportunity to enter the new year, leaving all the bad in the outgoing year.
I advise you to write to us as soon as possible and not waste your precious time that you can spend with your family.
With our decryptors recovery will take you the least time, without us you will have a very hard time and some of your files will not be recovered never.
The longer you think, the harder it will be for us to negotiate with you .
Waiting for your dialogues in our chat, below you can get acquainted with what happened.

[+] Whats Happen? [+]

Your files are encrypted, and currently unavailable. You can check it: all files on your system has extension szz25513j.
By the way, everything is possible to recover (restore), but you need to follow our instructions. Otherwise, you cant return your data (NEVER).

[+] What guarantees? [+]

Its just a business. We absolutely do not care about you and your deals, except getting benefits. If we do not do our work and liabilities - nobody will not cooperate with us. Its not in our interests.
To check the ability of returning files, You should go to our website. There you can decrypt one file for free. That is our guarantee.
If you will not cooperate with our service - for us, its does not matter. But you will lose your time and data, cause just we have the private key. In practise - time is much more valuable than money.

[+] How to get access on website? [+]

You have two ways:

1) [Recommended] Using a TOR browser!
  a) Download and install TOR browser from this site: hxxps://torproject.org/
  b) Open our website: hxxp://aplebzu47wgazapdqks6vrcv6zcnjp pkbxbr6wketf56nf6aq2nmyoyd. onion/6E0FCE541E857D00

2) If TOR blocked in your country, try to use VPN! But you can use our secondary website. For this:
  a) Open your any browser (Chrome, Firefox, Opera, IE, Edge)
  b) Open our secondary website: hxxp://decryptor.top/6E0FCE541E857D00

Warning: secondary website can be blocked, thats why first variant much better and more available.

When you open our website, put the following data in the input form:
Key:

-

Extension name:

-

-
!!! DANGER !!!
DONT try to change files by yourself, DONT use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions - its may entail damge of the private key and, as result, The Loss all data.
!!! !!! !!!
ONE MORE TIME: Its in your interests to get your files back. From our side, we (the best specialists) make everything for restoring, but please should not interfere.
!!! !!! !!!

For google: Revil/Sodinokibi

Screenshot of the desktop wallpaper:

Text presented within this image:

All of your files are encrypted!

Find [random_string]-readme.txt and follow instuctions

Screenshot of files encrypted by this Sodinokibi variant (random extension):

Screenshot of the latest Sodinokibi's website (which provides payment/decryption instructions) in Tor network:

Text presented within this website ("INSTRUCTIONS" tab):

Your computer has been infected!
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files encrypted
To decrypt your files you need to buy our special software - zog3i49-Decryptor
You can do it right now. Follow the instructions below. But remember that you do not have much time
zog3i49-Decryptor price
Time is over
* You didn't pay on time, the price was doubled
Current price
0.36018031 BTC
ò 2,600 USD
* BTC will be recalculated in 1 hour with an actual rate.

Bitcoin address: 36ee3WeL8ofVCsuHw4ZMUYJ72xLFaR6RDg
Instructions Chat support About us
How to decrypt files?

You will not be able to decrypt the files yourself. If you try, you will lose your files forever.

To decrypt your files you need to buy our special software - zog3i49-Decryptor.

* If you need guarantees, use trial decryption below.
How to buy zog3i49-Decryptor?

    Create a Bitcoin Wallet (we recommend Blockchain.info)
    Buy necessary amount of Bitcoins. Current price for buying is 0.36018031 BTC
    Send 0.36018031 BTC to the following Bitcoin address:
    36ee3WeL8ofVCsuHw4ZMUYJ72xLFaR6RDg

    * This receiving address was created for you, to identify your transactions
    Wait for 3 confirmations by blockchain
    Reload current page after, and get a link to download zog3i49-Decryptor

Trial decryption

Upload your image file for trial decryption to make sure that zog3i49-Decryptor works.

* This file should be an encrypted image. Example:

    your-image.jpg.zog3i49
    your-image.png.zog3i49
    your-image.gif.zog3i49

Text presented within this website ("ABOUT US" tab):

Sodinokibi

You probably already know about us. Many publications call us Sodinokibi.

If you've read them, you know that our Ransomware is different in its technology and reliability.

We've developed the best data encryption and decryption system available today.

Our competitors allow themselves to lose and destroy their victims' data during the encryption or decryption process, making it impossible to recover the data.

We don't allow ourselves to do that.

So you should be glad you were infected by our guys, not our competitors. This means that when you pay for the decryption, you can be sure that all your data will be decrypted.
Guarantees?

You can read the publications about us. For example, this one:
hxxps://www.coveware.com/blog/2019/7/15/ ransomware-amounts-rise-3x-in-q2-as-ryuk-amp-sodinokibi-spread

This edition explores Ransomware and makes comparisons. This article describes the 100% probability of data recovery via Sodinokibi software.

You can search for other publications about us on the Internet and once again make sure of our warranties.

Or go to the payment instructions page now to get our decryption software if you don't want to waste time.

Time is money.

Update January 23, 2020 - The developers of Sodinokibi ransomware have started using a new tactic - threatening victims to publish data, which is apparently not only encrypted, but also stolen as well. Sodinokibi's developers claim that they've made a copy of data before encrypting it and now they threaten to make it public unless the ransom is paid. This tactic is getting more and more popular amongst ransomware developers, as it increases their chances of getting paid. Home users may put up with losing images, videos, and other similar data, but someone making all of it publicly accessible is completely different thing. Especially when it comes to companies - at this current moment Sodinokibi's developers threaten to release information stolen from Gedia Automotive Group, which is a very huge company with over 4300 employees. Crooks stolen over 50 GBs of data which includes records of employees, customers, etc. Leaking such personal data might cause serious damage to any company. You can find more details in Sergiu Gatlan's article in BleepingComputer.

Update March 20, 2020 - Crooks have recently released yet another variant of Sodinokibi ransomware. Its behavior is virtually the same - names of encrypted files are appended with a random string, the desktop wallpaper is changed and the ransom note is dropped. The difference is text within the ransom note and desktop wallpaper.

Screenshot of this Sodinokibi ransomware's ransom note ("[random_string]-HELP-NEED.txt"):

Text presented within this file:

Sorry, but your files are locked due to a critical error in your system. The extension of your files is now "mjua6530p". If you yourself want to decrypt the files - you will lose them FOREVER.

You have to pay get your file decoder. DO NOT TAKE TIME, you have SEVERAL DAYS to pay, otherwise the cost of the decoder will double. How to do it is written below.

If you cannot do it yourself, then search the Internet for file recovery services in your country or city.

Go to the page through the browser: hxxp://decryptor.cc/00F5BC601E857D00
If your site does not open, then download the TOR browser (hxxps://torproject.org/). If you can’t access the download page of the TOR browser, then download the VPN!
After you install the TOR browser on your computer go to the site: hxxp://aplebzu47wgazapdqks6vrcv6zcnjppkbxbr6wketf56nf6aq2nmyoyd.onion/00F5BC601E857D00

Screenshot of this Sodinokibi ransomware's desktop wallpaper:

Text presented within this image:

...ALL YOUR FILES BLOCKED AND CAN BE LOST SOON...

Urgently find: [random_string]-HELP-NEED.txt in folders or on your desktop!

YOU HAVE A FEW DAYS OR A FILE WILL BE LOST FOREVER !!!

Screenshot of files encrypted by this Sodinokibi variant (random extension):

Appearance of this Sodinokibi variant's Tor website:

Text presented within this site:

Main page:

Your computer has been infected!
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files encrypted
To decrypt your files you need to buy our special software - mjua6530p-Decryptor
You can do it right now. Follow the instructions below. But remember that you do not have much time
mjua6530p-Decryptor price
You have 4 days, 23:59:00
* If you do not pay on time, the price will be doubled
* Time ends on Mar 25, 13:42:08
Current price 33.34075745 XMR ≈ 1,495 USD
After time ends 66.6815149 XMR ≈ 2,990 USD
* XMR will be recalculated in 5 hours with an actual rate.
Monero address:
87mqGPJYCzKReE8sgDUgFmFcyGHFTp9rBUVy5 oRw3W2KfLhnj9oPDH5XGVw4Qjf7jajLkrg6EZPo6HBUrqST25ckNyb6z3q
Instructions Chat support About us
Payment method Monero Bitcoin (+10%)
How to decrypt files?

You will not be able to decrypt the files yourself. If you try, you will lose your files forever.

To decrypt your files you need to buy our special software - mjua6530p-Decryptor.

* If you need guarantees, use trial decryption below.
How to buy mjua6530p-Decryptor?

    Buy the required amount of XMR (Monero): 33.34075745 XMR

    If you have problems with buying XMR, you can buy BTC (Bitcoin) and exchange it for XMR. See «Exchange BTC for XMR» on the page.
    Also you can change payment method
    Send 33.34075745 XMR to the following Monero address:
    87mqGPJYCzKReE8sgDUgFmFcyGHFTp9rBUVy5oRw3W 2KfLhnj9oPDH5XGVw4Qjf7jajLkrg6EZPo6HBUrqST25ckNyb6z3q

    * This receiving address was created for you, to identify your transactions
    Wait for 10 confirmations by blockchain
    Reload current page after, and get a link to download mjua6530p-Decryptor

Trial decryption

Upload your image file for trial decryption to make sure that mjua6530p-Decryptor works.

* This file should be an encrypted image. Example:

Buy XMR with Bank

Buy XMR locally with cash or online

Buy Bitcoin and trade for XMR

Other services where you can buy BTC, needed to exchange for XMR:

Exchange BTC for XMR

Buy XMR from India or South Korea

"ABOUT US" tab:

Sodinokibi

You probably already know about us. Many publications call us Sodinokibi.

If you've read them, you know that our Ransomware is different in its technology and reliability.

We've developed the best data encryption and decryption system available today.

Our competitors allow themselves to lose and destroy their victims' data during the encryption or decryption process, making it impossible to recover the data.

We don't allow ourselves to do that.

So you should be glad you were infected by our guys, not our competitors. This means that when you pay for the decryption, you can be sure that all your data will be decrypted.
Guarantees?

You can read the publications about us. For example, this one:
hxxps://www.coveware.com/blog/2019/7/15/ransomware-amounts-rise-3x-in-q2-as-ryuk-amp-sodinokibi-spread

This edition explores Ransomware and makes comparisons. This article describes the 100% probability of data recovery via Sodinokibi software.

You can search for other publications about us on the Internet and once again make sure of our warranties.

Or go to the payment instructions page now to get our decryption software if you don't want to waste time.

Time is money.

Update April 20, 2020 - Crooks have recently released yet another variant of Sodinokibi ransomware. Most of it's behavior is exactly the same - it appends a random extension, sets the exact same image as desktop wallpaper and promotes the same Tor network website. However, the ransom note within the text file ("readme.[random_string].txt") is different:

Text presented within:

Your files are locked due to a vulnerability in your system by "-" extension.
You will not be able to decrypt the files yourself, in the worst case you can destroy the data irreversibly. The only way to unlock your data is to buy the decryption program.
Go to the link written below to more details.

If you can't do this yourself, find a data recovery company in internet.
They can't help you unlock your data, because only we have decryption key, but will help you make a payment and provide you guarantees.

Also, I ask you to note, you have no long time, if you do not make payment soon, the price for the decryptor will double. So I recommend you don't waste time and move!

Go to the page through the browser:

hxxt://decryptor.cc/00F5BC601E857D00

If your site does not open, then download the TOR browser (hxxps://torproject.org/).
If you can’t access the download page of the TOR browser, then download the VPN!

After you install the TOR browser on your computer go to the site:

hxxp://aplebzu47wgazapdqks6vrcv6zcnjppkbxbr6wketf56nf6aq2nmyoyd.onion/00F5BC601E857D00

After going to the site, enter the following code:

-

Yet another Sodinokibi ransomware's text file:

Text presented within:

Your files are locked due to a vulnerability in your system by "-" extension.
You will not be able to decrypt the files yourself, in the worst case you can destroy the data irreversibly.
The only way to unlock your data is to buy the decryption program.
Go to the link written below to more details.

If you cannot do this yourself, find a data recovery company in internet.
They cannot help you unlock your data, because only we have decryption key, but will help you make a payment and provide you guarantees.

ATTENTION! DATA RECOVERY AGENCIES WORK AND DURING THE CORONOVIRUS QUARANTINE, THEY WILL HELP YOU REMOTE.

Also, I ask you to note, you have no long time, if you do not make payment soon, the price for the decryptor will double. So I recommend you dont waste time and move!

Go to the page through the browser:

hxxp://decryptor.cc/00F5BC601E857D00

If your site does not open, then download the "TOR Browser" (hxxps://torproject.org/).
If you cannot access the download page of the "TOR Browser", then download the VPN!

After installing "TOR Browser", open it and follow the link:

hxxp://aplebzu47wgazapdqks6vrcv6zcnjppkbxbr6wketf56nf6aq2nmyoyd.onion/00F5BC601E857D00

After going to the site, enter the following code:

-

Yet another variant of Sodinokibi ransomware's desktop wallpaper:

Text presented within:

All of your files are encrypted!
Find *****-readme.txt and follow instuctions
The final price depends on how fast you write to us.
We also have gathered your sensitive data.
We would share it in case you refuse to pay.

Update May 20, 2020 - Cyber criminals have recently released an updated version of Sodinokibi ransomware which is now capable of encrypting data that is open and locked by other processes/applications (files are typically locked for security purposes - multiple applications writing to the same file at the same time may corrupt it). To remove the lock Sodinokibi simply terminates the locking process and proceeds with encryption. It is also worth mentioning that the developers of Sodinokibi ransomware are threatening to leak data stolen from a huge entertainment and law company named Grubman Shire Meiselas & Sacks (GSMLaw). According to cyber criminals, the data includes various personal/legal documents and personal information (such as contracts, non-disclosure agreements, personal correspondence, phone numbers, etc.) The company represents a variety of huge stars, such as Madonna, Elton John, Robert De Niro, and others. Therefore, such data may seem very juicy for certain people. You can find more details regarding the data leakage in Ionut Ilascu's article posted in Bleeping Computer.

Update June 18, 2020 - As mentioned in the previous update, the developers of Sodinokibi managed to steal data from the Grugman Shire Meiselas & Sacks (GSMLaw) company and to gain access to private information of various celebrities. They've also threatened to leak data if the ransom is not paid. Well, the leak has begun. Cyber criminals are selling stolen data in an auction. They claim that they've already sold information about the current U.S. president Donald Trump and that Madonna's information is next to be sold. What's interesting is that these persons are asking hundreds of thousands of dollars for this information (the starting price of D. Trump's private data supposedly was $1.000.000). You can find more details regarding this extortion in our news article.

Website provided by yet another variant of Sodinokibi variant (named LV ransomware):

Text presented within this site:

YOUR SYSTEM HAS BEEN
PENETRATED by LV

Your company documents, databases and other important files have been encrypted

Your confidential documents, personal data and sensitive info have been downloaded

All the downloaded info will be published and put up for sale in darknet if you don't pay
You have 2 days 23:57:42
Your price $500,000

IF YOU DO NOT PAY ON TIME, ALL THE DOWNLOADED INFORMATION WILL BE PUBLISHED AUTOMATICALLY
JOURNALISTS AND DATA PROTECTION AUTHORITY WILL BE NOTIFIED ABOUT PERSONAL DATA LEAK
LOOK AT SOME PROOFS
Several screenshots of downloaded files

Your company's private information including billing info, card numbers, logins and passwords, agreements, financial reports; clients', employees', vendors' personal information and financial records. And lots of other sensitive info - belong to us
IT'S JUST A BUSINESS
We'll receive money anyway: from you or from the darknet
IF YOU DO NOT PAY
-_ You'll NEVER decrypt your files
-_ Your confidential data and the most important info, your clients' and employees' personal data will be published and sold out in DARKNET
-_ Your clients, employees, partners will be notified by e-mail that you haven't prevent their data leakage. That you've SOLD their personal data
-_ Journalists, data protection authority will be aware about the personal data leakage and breaking the Law (with PENALTIES per record)
-_ You'll LOOSE lots of time and data and reputation and money and clients. And they will be right cause you didn't meet consumer data protection obligations!
IF YOU_PAY ON TIME
+_ You'll RESTORE all your encrypted files and data IN MINUTES
+_ You'll PREVENT news article that you didn't meet consumer data protection obligations. You'll save your reliable REPUTATION
+_ You'll AVOID your company sensitive info publication and selling out in darknet for future EXPLOITATION
+_ You'll PREVENT problems with state regulatoru authority and ESCAPE punishment and penalties for violations and even court
+_ We'll completely and permanently delete ALL your data from our disks
+_ You'll continue work as reliable company and everything will be GOOD for you
OUR GUARANTY

You can decrypt one file for free. It's our guaranty that your files can be decrypted and restored by our decrypter. Try it
Decrypt any file with - extension and size below 1MB
Select file

DANGER!!!
Do not modify, rename, copy or move any files! This way you damage them and decryption will be impossible. Do not shutdown or reset your system! Do not use any third party or public decryption software or antivirus solutions to restore your files! It'll entail YOUR FILES LOSS. But will not reject your SENSITIVE DATA PUBLICATION!
LIVE CHAT
Take into account that we can answer in several hours. But we will
Hello! I’d be happy to answer any questions!

Update March 22, 2021 - New variant of Sodinokibi has been observed encrypting infected devices in Safe Mode. This ransomware forcefully reboots the system prior to starting the encryption. It reboots the computer in Safe Mode, which is designed to run administrative tasks and perform diagnostic processes using minimal software and drivers required. As this version of Sodinokibi encrypts files, users are presented with a blank screen in Safe Mode. While it is possible to open Windows Task Manager during encryption, the malware prevents victims from launching any applications. After the encryption is complete, the device will resume booting and on startup - display the desktop with a ransom note and dropped onto it.

Sodinokibi 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 Sodinokibi 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?

Most cybercriminals distribute ransomware via emails (links or attachments in emails), cracked software download pages, P2P networks, unofficial pages (and other unreliable sources for downloading software (or files). They succeed when users download and execute ransomware by themselves.

How to open files encrypted by Sodinokibi?

It is not possible to open encrypted files. They have to be decrypted.

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

Files encrypted by Sodinokibi can be decrypted with a tool downloaded from this website. In other cases, it may be possible to decrypt files using a tool downloaded from No More Ransom project website (more information above).

Can I trust third parties offering paid decryption?

Usually, they are scammers or act as a man-in-the-middle. Therefore, it is highly advisable not to pay them for data decryption.

Will Combo Cleaner help me remove Sodinokibi ransomware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan the operating system and eliminate ransomware. Files will remain encrypted since antivirus software cannot decrypt them. It is important to remove ransomware because it may encrypt more files and infect computers connected to a local network.

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