Radiyu (.Radiyu) ransomware virus – removal and decryption options

What kind of malware is Radiyu?

Radiyu is the name of a ransomware-type program. Following successful infiltration, this malware encrypts data and demands payment for its decryption. On our testing system, Radiyu encrypted files and added a ".Radiyu" extension to their titles. For example, a filename such as "1.jpg" appeared as "1.jpg.Radiyu", "2.png" as "2.png.Radiyu", etc.

Afterwards, a pop-up window was displayed. It contained the ransom note in Korean. At the time of writing, this ransomware is decryptable; the decryption password can be found below. However, it must be mentioned that it could be changed in potential future releases of Radiyu.

Screenshot of files encrypted by Radiyu ransomware:

Ransom note overview

According to a rough translation, Radiyu's message informs the victim that their databases, documents, photos, videos, and other important files have been encrypted. The note provides decryption instructions, which include "playing a game" that requires paying 120210 KRW (South Korean Won). Currently, the sum is worth approximately 89 USD (note that exchange rates constantly fluctuate).

The victim is warned against closing the pop-up window, removing the ransomware, and running anti-virus software – as these actions may interfere with decryption or even render it impossible.

Radiyu ransomware overview

As mentioned in the introduction, files encrypted by Radiyu can be recovered. The decryption key is " 43 " (sans the quotation marks). It has to be mentioned that this password may change and no longer be viable for potential future iterations of this malware.

Generally, ransomware generates strong encryption and can only be decrypted using unique and complex keys. This tactic ensures that the keys would not be interchangeable amongst victims. Hence, changes in the decryption password or its complexity are not unlikely. Likewise, it is possible that Radiyu was released for testing purposes, and the program will be updated later.

Deeply flawed ransomware is not common. Therefore, recovering the encrypted data is usually impossible without the attackers' interference. Yet even if recovery without it is not possible, we strongly advise against meeting the ransom demands. In many cases, victims do not receive the promised decryption keys/software despite paying.

Removing ransomware from the operating system will prevent it from encrypting more files – however, removal itself will not restore already affected data. The sole solution is to recover it from a backup (if one was made beforehand and is stored elsewhere).

The general advice for ensuring data safety is to keep backups in multiple different locations, such as remote servers, unplugged storage devices, and others.

Ransomware examples

We have analyzed thousands of ransomware samples; RCRU64, Press, Gotmydatafast, and SNet are merely some of our newest finds. This malware operates practically the same throughout – it encrypts files and demands payment for the decryption.

Ransomware can use different cryptographic algorithms (symmetric or asymmetric) to encrypt data. Ransoms typically vary from three to eight digits in USD, depending on the intended victim – i.e., home user or large entity (e.g., company, organization, institution, etc.).

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Ransomware and other malware are primarily spread using phishing and social engineering tactics. This software is usually disguised as or bundled with ordinary program/media.

Infectious files can be in various formats, e.g., archives (RAR, ZIP, etc.), executables (.exe, .run, etc.), documents (Microsoft Office, Microsoft OneNote, PDF, etc.), JavaScript, and so on. Once opened, a malicious file initiates the malware download/installation process.

The most widely used distribution techniques include: drive-by (stealthy/deceptive) downloads, malicious links/attachments in spam (e.g., emails, DMs/PMs, social media posts, etc.), online scams, malvertising, untrustworthy download sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.), illegal software activation tools ("cracks"), and fake updates.

Some malicious programs can self-proliferate through local networks and removable storage devices (e.g., external hard drives, USB flash drives, etc.).

Threat Summary:

Name	Radiyu virus
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker
Encrypted Files Extension	.Radiyu
Ransom Demanding Message	Text presented in the pop-up window
Ransom Amount	120210 KRW (South Korean Won)
Free Decryptor Available?	Yes (more information above)
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:Malware-gen), Combo Cleaner (Trojan.GenericKD.71272904), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/Filecoder.AQS), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.MSIL.Encoder.gen), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Wacatac.B!ml), 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?

We highly recommend downloading only from official and verified channels. Additionally, all programs must be activated and updated using functions/tools provided by legitimate developers, as those obtained from third-parties may contain malware.

Furthermore, incoming emails and other messages must be treated with caution. We advise against opening attachments or links found in dubious/irrelevant mail, as they can be malicious. Another recommendation is to be careful while browsing since fraudulent and dangerous online content usually appears genuine and innocuous.

We must emphasize the importance of having a dependable anti-virus installed and kept up-to-date. This software must be used to run regular system scans and to remove detected threats and issues. If your computer is already infected with Radiyu, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Appearance of Radiyu ransomware's pop-up window (GIF):

Text presented in this message:

내 컴퓨터는 어떻게 되었습니까?
당신의 중요한 파일은 라디유가 먹어버렸습니다.
문서, 사진, 비디오, 데이터베이스 및 기타 파일은
배고픈 라디유가 먹어버려서 더 이상 실행 시킬 수 없습니다.
어쩌면 파일을 복구 할 수 있는 방법을 찾느라 바쁘지만, 시간을 낭비하지 않아도 됩니다.
누구도 라디유가 먹은 파일은 복구 할 수 없었습니다. *유미라가 아니라면요*
 
내 파일을 복구 할 수 있습니까?
라디유가 먹은 파일들은 안전하고 쉽게 복구 할 수 있습니다.
그러나 라붕이에겐 그렇게 충분한 시간이 없습니다.
왜냐하면 파일을 먹어도 라디유는 배가 안차기에,
당신을 잡아 먹고 배를 채우기 위해서 준비하고 있기 때문입니다.
을 클릭하여 유미라를 미끼로 사용해서 파일을 복구하십시오.
그러나 유미라를 소환 하려면 문제를 풀어야 합니다.
문제는 딱~! 하나만 낼 것입니다.
*틀린 답이 없는지 잘 생각 해 보시고 문제를 풀어 보십시오!*

 

문제의 답은 어디에서 작성하나요?
아래에 보이는 흰색 네모박스(TextBox)에 당신이 맞다고 생각되는 답을 적어 주시면 됩니다.
*답을 맞추기 싫다는 이유로 컴퓨터를 껐다 키거나 이 창을 종료 시키면*
*다시는 파일을 복구 하실 수 없습니다.*
 
문제를 풀지 못하면 어떻게 되나요?
문제를 풀지 못하면 라디유가 먹은(암호화) 파일들은 복구 할 수 없습니다!
 
문제를 틀리면 어떻게 되나요?
문제를 틀리면 explorer.exe가 자동으로 종료됩니다.
하지만 걱정마십시오! 문제를 맞추게 되면 explorer.exe가 자동으로 복구됩니다.
*혹시나 해서 말하는 겁니다! explorer.exe가 갑자기 꺼져서 당황해가지고*
*이 창을 끄시면 안돼요!!!*
 
문제의 힌트는 어디서 보나요?
문제의 힌트는 라디유 쉘터에 있는 ''대.머.리''라는 게임을 플레이 해 보시면 아시게 될 것입니다!
아래에 있는 사이트에서 ''대.머.리''를 다운 받아 플레이 하십시오!

 

''대.머.리''다운로드 : hxxps://shelter.id/radiyu5/community/board/all(modal:_/radiyu5/10461)
 
힌트를 보았는데도 문제의 정답을 모르겠어요!! 도와주세요!!!
문제의 힌트를 보았는데도 문제의 정답을 모르시겠다면 아래의 주소로 비용을 지불하십시오!
비용은 트윕, 투네이션으로만 허용됩니다.
 
트윕(twip)으로 지불하기
hxxps://twip.kr/radiyu
 
투네이션으로 지불하기
hxxps://toon.at/donate/637246377212080144
 
지불 금액은 120210원 입니다. 지불이 확인되면 그 즉시 문제의 답을 드리겠습니다.
 
==(**!!경고!!**)==
 
이 창을 끄거나 Game.exe(Radian_Radiware_Radiyu.exe)를
제거하지 마시고 문제를 풀고 문제의 정답이
확인 될 때 까지 잠시 동안 안티 바이러스(백신: 알약, V3, AppCheck등 을)를
비활성화 하십시오!
*비활성화는 잠시 동안 백신을 꺼달라는 겁니다...*

 

왜? 백신을 꺼야 되는거야?
*왜냐하면 백신이 이 창을 바이러스로 감지해서 자동으로 삭제되면*
*복구가 불가능 해지기 때문입니다!!!*
 
이 창을 끄거나 안티 바이러스가 업데이트 되어서
이 소프트웨어가 자동으로 제거되면 문제를 맞추더라도
라디유가 먹은 파일들을 복구 할 수 없다고 두번 경고 했습니다!
*딴 말하기 없긔* ^^
 
해당 랜섬웨어는 RSA-AES암호화를 사용해서 만들었기 때문에 라디유 랜섬웨어 창을 끄게 된다면
암호화된 키는 자동으로 없어져 버려 복호화가 불가능 합니다!!!
 
**장난으로 하는 말이 아님을 밝힙니다!**

Video showing how to remove Radiyu ransomware using Combo Cleaner:

Radiyu 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 Radiyu 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?

Ransomware executables are typically presented as ordinary content – therefore, victims themselves often open these files. This malware is mainly distributed via drive-by downloads, spam emails/messages, dubious download channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), online scams, malvertising, illegal software activation tools ("cracking"), and fake updates.

How to open ".Radiyu" files?

Encrypted files cannot be opened/used unless they are decrypted.

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

Radiyu can be decrypted using the – 43 – password. However, potential future versions of this ransomware could use different or unique keys. In case this password does not work, we recommend checking out the No More Ransom project website (more information above).

Will Combo Cleaner help me remove Radiyu ransomware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate detected ransomware infections. Note that while using an anti-virus program is the first step in ransomware recovery, security software is incapable of decrypting data.

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