TwoFactor ransomware virus – removal and decryption options
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What is TwoFactor ransomware?
Our research team found the TwoFactor ransomware while investigating new submissions to VirusTotal. Malware within this classification is designed to encrypt data and demand payment for its decryption.
After we executed a sample of TwoFactor on our test machine, it encrypted files and appended their filenames with an extension consisting of four random characters. For example, a file originally named "1.jpg" appeared as "1.jpg.8nk6", "2.png" as "2.png.78zi", etc.
Once this process was completed, the ransomware created ransom notes in the form of a desktop wallpaper and text file titled "README.txt". The message on the wallpaper is in English and Korean, while the text file is written exclusively in the latter.
Screenshot of files encrypted by TwoFactor ransomware:
TwoFactor ransomware overview
TwoFactor's desktop wallpaper is presented as a warning from the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation). It makes no mention of the data encryption. This note warns of the civil and criminal penalties associated with the possession, distribution, and other activities related to piracy and pirated content. Criminal copyright infringement carries an up to 5-year prison sentence and an up to $250,000 USD fine.
According to a rough translation, the ransom note in TwoFactor's text file informs victims that their data has been encrypted. The only way to recover the affected files is to obtain the decryption keys/software from the cyber criminals behind the ransomware infection.
The message alerts that using third-party decryption tools may render the files undecryptable, and rebooting the operating system will lead to permanent data loss.
This note claims that the attackers do not seek payment. Supposedly, the cyber criminals merely wish to receive an apology/reflection from victims regarding their piracy-related activities.
Based on our extensive experience researching ransomware infections, decryption is usually impossible without the cyber criminals' interference. The only exceptions are cases involving deeply flawed ransomware.
Furthermore, victims often do not receive the decryption tools – despite meeting the ransom demands. Therefore, even if it is possible to do so – we strongly advise against it, as data recovery is not guaranteed, and paying also supports this illegal activity.
To prevent TwoFactor ransomware from further encryptions – it must be removed from the operating system. Unfortunately, removal will not restore already compromised files. The sole solution is to recover them from a backup (if one is available).
The general advice for ensuring data safety is to keep backups in multiple separate locations, such as unplugged storage devices, remote servers, and others.
Ransomware examples
CRYPTNET, MinlWon, TargetWare, Kafan, and Skynetlock are just some examples of ransomware-type programs that we have analyzed recently. This malicious software operates practically the same throughout. However, these programs have two significant differences in-between – the cryptographic algorithms they use (symmetric or asymmetric) and the ransom size.
How did ransomware infect my computer?
Ransomware and other malware are mainly distributed using phishing and social engineering tactics. Malicious programs are typically disguised as or bundled with ordinary software/media.
Infectious files can be executables (.exe, .run, etc.), archives (RAR, ZIP, etc.), documents (Microsoft Office, Microsoft OneNote, PDF, etc.), JavaScript, and so on. When a virulent file is executed, run, or otherwise opened – the infection process is initiated.
Malware (ransomware included) is primarily proliferated via drive-by (stealthy/deceptive) downloads, malicious attachments and links in spam emails/messages, online scams, dubious download sources (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.), pirated software and illegal program activation ("cracking") tools, fake updaters, and malvertising.
Furthermore, some malicious programs can self-spread through local networks and removable storage devices (e.g., external hard drives, USB flash drives, etc.).
| Name | TwoFactor virus |
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker |
| Encrypted Files Extension | Extension comprising four random characters |
| Ransom Demanding Message | Text presented on the desktop wallpaper and in README.txt |
| Free Decryptor Available? | No |
| Cyber Criminal Contact | Discord messaging platform, noturnoffpc@bugfoo.com |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (IL:Trojan.MSILZilla.24983), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/Filecoder.AGP), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.MSIL.Agent.gen), Microsoft (Ransom:MSIL/FileCoder.AD!MTB), 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?
We strongly advise downloading only from official and verified channels. Additionally, it is crucial to activate and update software by using functions/tools provided by legitimate developers, as those acquired from third-parties may contain malware.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant while browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears ordinary and innocuous. We also advise approaching incoming emails and other messages with caution. The attachments or links found in suspect/irrelevant mail must not be opened, as they can be infectious.
We must stress the importance of having a reputable anti-virus installed and kept updated. Security programs must be used to perform regular system scans and to remove detected threats. If your computer is already infected with TwoFactor, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.
Appearance of TwoFactor ransomware's text file "README.txt" (GIF):
Text presented in this message:
필요한 파일을 찾을 수 없습니까?
필요한 파일의 내용을 읽을 수 없습니까?
파일 내의 데이터가 암호화되었기 때문에 이는 정상입니다.
축하합니다!
당신은 TwoFactor Ransomware 에 감염되었습니다.
이 텍스트를 읽고 있다면 소프트웨어 TwoFactor Ransomware가 시스템에 설치되었음을 의미합니다. 그리고, 당신이 크랙을 했다는 사실도 함께 증명된 셈입니다. 이 랜섬웨어는 크랙을 하지 않은 이상 동작하지 않습니다.
암호화란 무엇입니까?
암호화는 권한이 없는 사람에게 정보를 숨기는 동시에 권한이 있는 사용자에게 정보에 대한 액세스를 제공하기 위해 정보를 가역적으로 변환하는 것입니다.
승인된 사용자가 되어 프로세스를 진정으로 되돌릴 수 있도록 합니다. - 파일을 해독하려면 특별한 개인 키가 필요합니다.
또한 파일을 원래 형식으로 되돌리는 해당 암호 해독 소프트웨어가 필요합니다.
거의 이해하지만 어떻게 해야 합니까?
가장 먼저 해야 할 일은 종료 지침을 읽는 것입니다.
귀하의 파일은 TwoFactor Ransomware 소프트웨어로 암호화되었습니다. 암호화된 파일과 함께 폴더 내에서 찾은 지침(HTML) 은 멀웨어에 감염되지 않았지만 사용자를 돕기 위한 것입니다.
이 텍스트를 읽은 후 100%의 사람들이 TwoFactor Ransomware라는 단어가 포함된 검색 엔진으로 전환하여 많은 생각, 아이디어 및 지침을 찾을 수 있습니다.
논리적으로 생각하십시오. 우리는 귀하의 파일을 잠근 사람이며 귀하의 파일을 해독할 수 있는 유일한 사람입니다.
타사 소프트웨어나 도구를 사용하여 파일을 복원하려는 모든 시도는 암호화된 파일에 치명적일 수 있습니다.
문제의 사실은 파일 복원 소프트웨어 및 도구의 100%가 수행하는 것처럼 암호화된 파일 내의 데이터를 변경하면 파일이 손상되어 복구할 수 없게 된다는 것입니다. 특별한 프로그램만이 파일을 복원할 수 있습니다.
핵심 운영 체제가 암호화되었으므로 시스템을 재부팅하지 마십시오. 재부팅하면 시스템과 파일을 복원할 수 없습니다. (시크릿 키 손상)
USB 또는 CD-ROM을 통해 복구 미디어를 로드하려는 시도가 비활성화되어 있습니다. 이렇게 하면 데이터가 손상될 수 있습니다.
참고: 저희는 금전을 요구하지 않습니다! 오직 크랙 유저들에게 반성문과 사과문만 받으면 됩니다.
귀하가 우리의 조언에 귀를 기울이지 않는다면 우리는 귀하를 도울 수 없을 것입니다.
참고로 복호화 소프트웨어와 개인키는 무료 상품입니다.
복구 패키지를 얻은 후 다음을 수행할 수 있습니다.
1. 모든 파일 복호화
2. 문서 작업
3. 사진, 음악 및 기타 미디어 보기
4. 시스템으로 작업 계속하기
상황의 중요성과 중요성을 알고 있다면 해독 페이지로 바로 이동하는 것이 좋습니다. 이 페이지에서 파일을 복원하는 방법에 대한 지침과 함께 고유 코드를 입력합니다.
메일을 보내십시오 (크랙 사과 / 반성문과 함께): noturnoffpc@bugfoo.com 또는 hxxps://discord.gg/9BkpnVwt5X 또는 TwoFactor | RS Decrypt#7413로 문의하십시오.
이 랜섬웨어의 식별 코드는 2FARANSOM_tl991 입니다. 모든 사용자가 같은 식별 코드일 것입니다. 식별 코드를 위 주소로 문의하시면 됩니다.
인터넷 연결을 확인하십시오.
Screenshot of TwoFactor's desktop wallpaper:
Text presented on this wallpaper (English):
FBI WARNING
Federal Law provides severe civil and crimunal penalties for the unauthorized reproduction, distribution, retailing, broadcasting, streaming & downloading or exhibition of copyrighted motion pictures and video tapes / DVDs.
Criminal copyright infrigement is investigated by the FBI and may constitude a felony with a maximum penalty of five years in prison or $250,000 fine.
(Title 17 U. S. Code, Section 501, 506, and 508)
TwoFactor 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 TwoFactor virus?
- STEP 1. Reporting ransomware to authorities.
- STEP 2. Isolating the infected device.
- STEP 3. Identifying the ransomware infection.
- STEP 4. Searching for ransomware decryption tools.
- STEP 5. Restoring files with data recovery tools.
- STEP 6. Creating data backups.
If you are a victim of a ransomware attack we recommend reporting this incident to authorities. By providing information to law enforcement agencies you will help track cybercrime and potentially assist in the prosecution of the attackers. Here's a list of authorities where you should report a ransomware attack. For the complete list of local cybersecurity centers and information on why you should report ransomware attacks, read this article.
List of local authorities where ransomware attacks should be reported (choose one depending on your residence address):
USA - Internet Crime Complaint Centre IC3
United Kingdom - Action Fraud
Spain - Policía Nacional
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Germany - Polizei
Italy - Polizia di Stato
The Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Isolating the infected device:
Some ransomware-type infections are designed to encrypt files within external storage devices, infect them, and even spread throughout the entire local network. For this reason, it is very important to isolate the infected device (computer) as soon as possible.
Step 1: Disconnect from the internet.
The easiest way to disconnect a computer from the internet is to unplug the Ethernet cable from the motherboard, however, some devices are connected via a wireless network and for some users (especially those who are not particularly tech-savvy), disconnecting cables may seem troublesome. Therefore, you can also disconnect the system manually via Control Panel:
Navigate to the "Control Panel", click the search bar in the upper-right corner of the screen, enter "Network and Sharing Center" and select search result: 
Click the "Change adapter settings" option in the upper-left corner of the window: 
Right-click on each connection point and select "Disable". Once disabled, the system will no longer be connected to the internet. To re-enable the connection points, simply right-click again and select "Enable". 
Step 2: Unplug all storage devices.
As mentioned above, ransomware might encrypt data and infiltrate all storage devices that are connected to the computer. For this reason, all external storage devices (flash drives, portable hard drives, etc.) should be disconnected immediately, however, we strongly advise you to eject each device before disconnecting to prevent data corruption:
Navigate to "My Computer", right-click on each connected device, and select "Eject": 
Step 3: Log-out of cloud storage accounts.
Some ransomware-type might be able to hijack software that handles data stored within "the Cloud". Therefore, the data could be corrupted/encrypted. For this reason, you should log-out of all cloud storage accounts within browsers and other related software. You should also consider temporarily uninstalling the cloud-management software until the infection is completely removed.
Identify the ransomware infection:
To properly handle an infection, one must first identify it. Some ransomware infections use ransom-demand messages as an introduction (see the WALDO ransomware text file below).
This, however, is rare. In most cases, ransomware infections deliver more direct messages simply stating that data is encrypted and that victims must pay some sort of ransom. Note that ransomware-type infections typically generate messages with different file names (for example, "_readme.txt", "READ-ME.txt", "DECRYPTION_INSTRUCTIONS.txt", "DECRYPT_FILES.html", etc.). Therefore, using the name of a ransom message may seem like a good way to identify the infection. The problem is that most of these names are generic and some infections use the same names, even though the delivered messages are different and the infections themselves are unrelated. Therefore, using the message filename alone can be ineffective and even lead to permanent data loss (for example, by attempting to decrypt data using tools designed for different ransomware infections, users are likely to end up permanently damaging files and decryption will no longer be possible even with the correct tool).
Another way to identify a ransomware infection is to check the file extension, which is appended to each encrypted file. Ransomware infections are often named by the extensions they append (see files encrypted by Qewe ransomware below).
This method is only effective, however, when the appended extension is unique - many ransomware infections append a generic extension (for example, ".encrypted", ".enc", ".crypted", ".locked", etc.). In these cases, identifying ransomware by its appended extension becomes impossible.
One of the easiest and quickest ways to identify a ransomware infection is to use the ID Ransomware website. This service supports most existing ransomware infections. Victims simply upload a ransom message and/or one encrypted file (we advise you to upload both if possible).
The ransomware will be identified within seconds and you will be provided with various details, such as the name of the malware family to which the infection belongs, whether it is decryptable, and so on.
Example 1 (Qewe [Stop/Djvu] ransomware):
Example 2 (.iso [Phobos] ransomware):
If your data happens to be encrypted by ransomware that is not supported by ID Ransomware, you can always try searching the internet by using certain keywords (for example, a ransom message title, file extension, provided contact emails, crypto wallet addresses, etc.).
Search for ransomware decryption tools:
Encryption algorithms used by most ransomware-type infections are extremely sophisticated and, if the encryption is performed properly, only the developer is capable of restoring data. This is because decryption requires a specific key, which is generated during the encryption. Restoring data without the key is impossible. In most cases, cybercriminals store keys on a remote server, rather than using the infected machine as a host. Dharma (CrySis), Phobos, and other families of high-end ransomware infections are virtually flawless, and thus restoring data encrypted without the developers' involvement is simply impossible. Despite this, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain a number of flaws (for example, the use of identical encryption/decryption keys for each victim, keys stored locally, etc.). Therefore, always check for available decryption tools for any ransomware that infiltrates your computer.
Finding the correct decryption tool on the internet can be very frustrating. For this reason, we recommend that you use the No More Ransom Project and this is where identifying the ransomware infection is useful. The No More Ransom Project website contains a "Decryption Tools" section with a search bar. Enter the name of the identified ransomware, and all available decryptors (if there are any) will be listed.
Restore files with data recovery tools:
Depending on the situation (quality of ransomware infection, type of encryption algorithm used, etc.), restoring data with certain third-party tools might be possible. Therefore, we advise you to use the Recuva tool developed by CCleaner. This tool supports over a thousand data types (graphics, video, audio, documents, etc.) and it is very intuitive (little knowledge is necessary to recover data). In addition, the recovery feature is completely free.
Step 1: Perform a scan.
Run the Recuva application and follow the wizard. You will be prompted with several windows allowing you to choose what file types to look for, which locations should be scanned, etc. All you need to do is select the options you're looking for and start the scan. We advise you to enable the "Deep Scan" before starting, otherwise, the application's scanning capabilities will be restricted.
Wait for Recuva to complete the scan. The scanning duration depends on the volume of files (both in quantity and size) that you are scanning (for example, several hundred gigabytes could take over an hour to scan). Therefore, be patient during the scanning process. We also advise against modifying or deleting existing files, since this might interfere with the scan. If you add additional data (for example, downloading files/content) while scanning, this will prolong the process:
Step 2: Recover data.
Once the process is complete, select the folders/files you wish to restore and simply click "Recover". Note that some free space on your storage drive is necessary to restore data:
Create data backups:
Proper file management and creating backups is essential for data security. Therefore, always be very careful and think ahead.
Partition management: We recommend that you store your data in multiple partitions and avoid storing important files within the partition that contains the entire operating system. If you fall into a situation whereby you cannot boot the system and are forced to format the disk on which the operating system is installed (in most cases, this is where malware infections hide), you will lose all data stored within that drive. This is the advantage of having multiple partitions: if you have the entire storage device assigned to a single partition, you will be forced to delete everything, however, creating multiple partitions and allocating the data properly allows you to prevent such problems. You can easily format a single partition without affecting the others - therefore, one will be cleaned and the others will remain untouched, and your data will be saved. Managing partitions is quite simple and you can find all the necessary information on Microsoft's documentation web page.
Data backups: One of the most reliable backup methods is to use an external storage device and keep it unplugged. Copy your data to an external hard drive, flash (thumb) drive, SSD, HDD, or any other storage device, unplug it and store it in a dry place away from the sun and extreme temperatures. This method is, however, quite inefficient, since data backups and updates need to be made regularly. You can also use a cloud service or remote server. Here, an internet connection is required and there is always the chance of a security breach, although it's a really rare occasion.
We recommend using Microsoft OneDrive for backing up your files. OneDrive lets you store your personal files and data in the cloud, sync files across computers and mobile devices, allowing you to access and edit your files from all of your Windows devices. OneDrive lets you save, share and preview files, access download history, move, delete, and rename files, as well as create new folders, and much more.
You can back up your most important folders and files on your PC (your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders). Some of OneDrive’s more notable features include file versioning, which keeps older versions of files for up to 30 days. OneDrive features a recycling bin in which all of your deleted files are stored for a limited time. Deleted files are not counted as part of the user’s allocation.
The service is built using HTML5 technologies and allows you to upload files up to 300 MB via drag and drop into the web browser or up to 10 GB via the OneDrive desktop application. With OneDrive, you can download entire folders as a single ZIP file with up to 10,000 files, although it can’t exceed 15 GB per single download.
OneDrive comes with 5 GB of free storage out of the box, with an additional 100 GB, 1 TB, and 6 TB storage options available for a subscription-based fee. You can get one of these storage plans by either purchasing additional storage separately or with Office 365 subscription.
Creating a data backup:
The backup process is the same for all file types and folders. Here’s how you can back up your files using Microsoft OneDrive
Step 1: Choose the files/folders you want to backup.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon to open the OneDrive menu. While in this menu, you can customize your file backup settings.
Click Help & Settings and then select Settings from the drop-down menu.
Go to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
In this menu, you can choose to backup the Desktop and all of the files on it, and Documents and Pictures folders, again, with all of the files in them. Click Start backup.
Now, when you add a file or folder in the Desktop and Documents and Pictures folders, they will be automatically backed up on OneDrive.
To add folders and files, not in the locations shown above, you have to add them manually.
Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of the folder/file you want to backup. Select the item, right-click it, and click Copy.
Then, navigate to OneDrive, right-click anywhere in the window and click Paste. Alternatively, you can just drag and drop a file into OneDrive. OneDrive will automatically create a backup of the folder/file.
All of the files added to the OneDrive folder are backed up in the cloud automatically. The green circle with the checkmark in it indicates that the file is available both locally and on OneDrive and that the file version is the same on both. The blue cloud icon indicates that the file has not been synced and is available only on OneDrive. The sync icon indicates that the file is currently syncing.
To access files only located on OneDrive online, go to the Help & Settings drop-down menu and select View online.
Step 2: Restore corrupted files.
OneDrive makes sure that the files stay in sync, so the version of the file on the computer is the same version on the cloud. However, if ransomware has encrypted your files, you can take advantage of OneDrive’s Version history feature that will allow you to restore the file versions prior to encryption.
Microsoft 365 has a ransomware detection feature that notifies you when your OneDrive files have been attacked and guide you through the process of restoring your files. It must be noted, however, that if you don’t have a paid Microsoft 365 subscription, you only get one detection and file recovery for free.
If your OneDrive files get deleted, corrupted, or infected by malware, you can restore your entire OneDrive to a previous state. Here’s how you can restore your entire OneDrive:
1. If you're signed in with a personal account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Options and select Restore your OneDrive.
If you're signed in with a work or school account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Restore your OneDrive.
2. On the Restore your OneDrive page, select a date from the drop-down list. Note that if you're restoring your files after automatic ransomware detection, a restore date will be selected for you.
3. After configuring all of the file restoration options, click Restore to undo all the activities you selected.
The best way to avoid damage from ransomware infections is to maintain regular up-to-date backups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How was my computer hacked and how did hackers encrypt my files?
In many cases, victims themselves execute (open) ransomware executables since these files are typically disguised as regular content. This malicious software is mainly distributed through drive-by downloads, online scams, spam emails/messages, untrustworthy download sources (e.g., free file-hosting and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), illegal program activation tools ("cracks"), fake updates, and malvertising.
How to open files encrypted by TwoFactor ransomware?
Continue to file usage necessitates decryption. In other words, encrypted files can neither be opened nor otherwise used – unless they are decrypted.
Where should I look for free decryption tools for TwoFactor ransomware?
If you have experienced a ransomware attack, we recommend checking out the No More Ransom project website (more information above).
I can pay you a lot of money, can you decrypt files for me?
We do not offer such services. In fact, aside from cases involving severely flawed ransomware, decryption is impossible without the cyber criminals' interference. Hence, third-parties offering paid decryption are often scams or middleman services between victims and criminals.
Will Combo Cleaner help me remove TwoFactor ransomware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate active ransomware infections. It must be noted that while using an anti-virus is the first step in ransomware recovery – security software is incapable of decrypting data.
Outstanding!
▼ Show Discussion