How to remove Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware and decrypt .blue files

What is Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware

Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware is a sophisticated strain of malware that falls under the category of ransomware, designed to encrypt a victim’s data and demand a ransom for decryption. Once it infiltrates a system, it systematically encrypts files using advanced cryptographic algorithms, effectively locking users out of their personal or business data. During encryption, the ransomware appends a new file extension, .blue, to each file it processes, thereby altering not just the content accessibility but also the file’s recognizable identity by the system’s default programs. For instance, a file originally named document.docx would appear as randomcharacters.blue after the encryption process. Evidence of infection is further solidified by the presence of a ransom note, #HowToRecover.txt, which is typically deposited in every folder containing encrypted files. This note contains a message to the victim, stating that their files have been encrypted and outlining the steps to recover access, including a demand for payment, usually in cryptocurrencies. The ransomware creators caution against using third-party decryption tools and often provide contact information for negotiations.

As disheartening as ransomware attacks might be, especially those by Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware, it’s important to understand current possibilities for mitigation and recovery. Unfortunately, as with many modern ransomware variants, decryption without the original decryption key is often impossible unless a severe flaw exists in the malware’s encryption logic. As of now, no publicly available decryption tool exists that can reverse the damage done by .blue ransomware without the attackers’ intervention. Victims are strongly discouraged from paying the ransom, not only because it doesn’t guarantee the return of their data but also because it funds further criminal activity. Instead, users are encouraged to consult legitimate cybersecurity forums and services such as the No More Ransom Project for any evolving solutions. Preventative measures such as maintaining comprehensive offline backups and employing robust antivirus software are crucial in protecting against potential future attacks. If infection does occur, professionals recommend isolating the device to prevent further spread, using trusted antivirus solutions to remove the malware, and seeking any potential recovery options through professional data recovery services.

How Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware infects computers

Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware primarily infiltrates computers through deceptive tactics such as phishing and social engineering. Cybercriminals often disguise malicious files as legitimate software or media, distributing them via infected email attachments, malicious links, or compromised websites. These files can be various formats, including executables, documents with macros, or compressed archives, which, when opened, initiate the ransomware installation process. Additionally, Blue can spread through untrustworthy download sources like peer-to-peer networks, fake software updates, or illegal software activation tools. Once inside a system, the ransomware encrypts files, appending a “.blue” extension and leaving a ransom note demanding payment for decryption. To mitigate the risk of infection, users should exercise caution with unsolicited emails, ensure software is downloaded from reputable sources, and maintain updated antivirus protection.

1. Download Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .blue files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware

Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware files:


#HowToRecover.txt
{randomname}.exe


Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .blue files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .blue files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .blue files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .blue files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. Blue (SHINRA) Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro