How to uninstall Sekhmet ransomware

What is Sekhmet?

Discovered by dnwls0719, Sekhmet is ransomware. This malicious program operates by encrypting data and demanding ransom payments for decryption. During the encryption process, all affected files are appended with an extension, consisting of random characters (e.g. ".HrUSsw", ".WNgh", ".NdWfEr", etc.).

Note that these extensions do not differ simply from infection to infection, they can be different on the same device. Therefore, victims might find that some of their files have one extension, whilst others are different. After the encryption process is complete, a ransom message ( "RECOVER-FILES.txt") is dropped into every compromised folder.

The ransom-demand message ("RECOVER-FILES.txt") informs victims that their company network has been breached. Confidential and private data has been exfiltrated from the systems on the network and will be publicized in three days. Additionally, all of the stored files have been encrypted with the RSA-2048 and ChaCha cryptographic algorithms.

The only way to prevent publication and recover the compromised data is [supposedly] to pay a ransom to the cyber criminals behind Sekhmet ransomware. There are two ways users can establish contact with the criminals. One method is via a website, which can be opened through Tor browser.

The other is via a different site, which should be used if victims have trouble connecting/using the Tor network. Within these websites, users will receive instructions regarding payment and decryption. They can also test file recovery free of charge. The message ends with frequently asked questions (FAQs).

This section clarifies that decryption can be tested by uploading up to three encrypted files to the provided site. Additionally, it gives some dubious assurances as to why victims should trust them. Concerning the question of how the network was infected, the criminals promise to provide a detailed report pertaining to the victim's request, following payment.

Unfortunately, in most cases of ransomware infections, decryption is impossible without the involvement of the cyber criminals responsible, unless the malware in question is still in development and/or has bugs/flaws. Whatever the case, you are strongly advised against meeting the ransom demands.

Despite paying, users do not receive the promised decryption tools and the stolen data is not deleted (and hence can be used for repeated ransom demands or publicized). Without the legitimate recovery tools/software, the files remain encrypted and useless.

To prevent Sekhmet from further encryption, it must be removed for the operating system, however, this will not restore already affected data. The only viable solution is recover files from a backup, if one was created prior to the infection and was stored in a separate location.

Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data:

Ransomware-type programs are designed to encrypt data and demand payment for decryption tools/software. Taargo, .2020, Mado, and Opqz are some other examples. Crucial differences include the cryptographic algorithm they use (symmetric or asymmetric) and ransom size.

Digital currencies (mainly, cryptocurrencies) are used for payments, since these transactions are difficult/impossible to trace. To avoid permanent data loss, you are advised to keep backups on remote servers and/or unplugged storage devices (ideally, in multiple different locations).

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Ransomware and other malware are primarily spread via Trojans, spam campaigns, software "cracking" (activation) tools, fake updates and untrusted download channels. Trojans are malware programs capable of causing chain infections (i.e., they download/install additional malicious programs).

Spam campaigns are used to send thousands of deceptive/scam emails on a mass scale. These messages have dangerous files attached to (or linked inside) them. The malicious files can be in various formats (e.g. archive and executable files, PDF and Microsoft Office documents, JavaScript, etc.).

When they are opened, the infection process starts. "Cracks" can download/install malware, rather than activating licensed products. Rogue updaters can infect systems by exploiting flaws of outdated products and/or simply by installing malicious software rather than the updates.

Malware is often downloaded unintentionally from untrusted sources (e.g. unofficial and free file-hosting sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks and other third party downloaders).

Threat Summary:

Name	Sekhmet virus
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker.
Encrypted Files Extension	Files are appended with varying extensions, consisting of random characters (e.g. .HrUSsw, .WNgh, etc.).
Ransom Demand Message	RECOVER-FILES.txt
Cyber Criminal Contact	Tor browser website.
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:Malware-gen), BitDefender (Trojan.GenericKD.42872102), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Generik.GYISLCY), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Cryptor.ddu), 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. ▼ 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?

Do not open suspect or irrelevant emails, especially those with any attachments or links present, since this can result in high-risk infection. You are advised to use official and verified download channels. Furthermore, all products should be activated and updated only with tools/functions provided by legitimate developers.

Illegal activation ("cracking") tools and third party updaters should be avoided, since they are commonly used to proliferate malware.

To ensure device and user safety, it is paramount to have a reputable anti-virus/anti-spyware suite installed and kept updated. Use this software for regular system scans and to remove all detected/potential threats. If your computer is already infected with Sekhmet, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Text presented in Sekhmet ransomware text file ("RECOVER-FILES.txt"):

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| Attention! |
-----

Your company network has been hacked and breached. We downloaded confidential and private data.
In case of not contacting us in 3 business days this data will be published on a special website available for public view.

Also we had executed a special software that turned files, databases and other important data in your network into an encrypted state using RSA-2048 and ChaCha algorithms.
A special key is required to decrypt and restore these files. Only we have this key and only we can give it to you with a reliable decryption software.

-----
| How to contact us and be safe again |
-----

The only method to restore your files and be safe from data leakage is to purchase a private key which is unique for you and securely stored on our servers.
After the payment we provide you with decryption software that will decrypt all your files, also we remove the downloaded data from your network and never post any information about you.

There are 2 ways to directly contact us:

1) Using hidden TOR network:
 
   a) Download a special TOR browser: hxxps://www.torproject.org/
   b) Install the TOR browser
   c) Open our website in the TOR browser: hxxp://o3n4bhhtybbtwqqs.onion/1E857D009F862A38
   d) Follow the instructions on this page.

2) If you have any problems connecting or using TOR network
   
   a) Open our website: hxxps://sekhmet.top/1E857D009F862A38
   b) Follow the instructions on this page

On this web site, you will get instructions on how to make a free decryption test and how to pay.
Also it has a live chat with our operators and support team.

-----------------------
|Questions and answers|
-----------------------
We understand you may have questions, so we provide here answers to the frequently asked questions.

====
Q: What about decryption guarantees?
A: You have a FREE opportunity to test a service by instantly decrypting for free 3 files from every system in your network.
If you have any problems our friendly support team is always here to assist you in a live chat.
====

====
Q: How can we be sure that after the payment data is removed and not published or used in any nefarious ways?
A: We can assure you, downloaded data will be securely removed using DoD 5220.22-M wiping standart.
We are not interested in keeping this data as we do not gain any profit from it. This data is used only to leverage you to make a payment and nothing more.
On the market the data itself are relatively useless and cheap.
Also we perfectly understand that using or publishing this data after the payment will compromise our reliable business operations and we are not interested in it.
====

====
Q: How did you get into the network?
A: Detailed report on how we did it and how to fix your vulnerabilities can be provided by request after the payment.
====

-----
This is techinal information we need to identify you correctly and give decryption key to you, do not redact!
---SEKHMET---
-
---SEKHMET---

Appearance of Sekhmet website (GIF):

Screenshot of files encrypted by Sekhmet (varied random-character extensions):

Update February 10, 2020 - The master decryption keys for Maze, Egregor and Sekhmet ransomware have been recently leaked. This allowed Emsisoft to release a decryption tool that allows victims to restore data for free. You can download this decryption tool and find its user manual in Emsisoft's website.

Screenshot of Emsisoft's decryptor for Maze/Egregor/Sekhmet ransomware:

Sekhmet 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 Sekhmet 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.

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