How to remove ETHAN Ransomware and decrypt .ETHAN files

What is ETHAN Ransomware

ETHAN Ransomware is a malicious software threat classified under the MedusaLocker ransomware family. It is specifically designed to infiltrate computer networks, encrypt files, and demand ransom payments from victims in exchange for file decryption. This ransomware uses a combination of RSA and AES cryptographic algorithms, which are often employed to ensure that once data is encrypted, decryption becomes exceedingly difficult without the correct key. In a typical attack, files on an infected system are targeted for encryption, and as part of this process, their original filenames are altered by appending the extension .ETHAN — for instance, a file named document.docx becomes document.docx.ETHAN. Following the encryption, READ_NOTE.html, a ransom note file, is generated and placed in various locations on the affected system, often accompanied by changes to the desktop wallpaper to further alert the user to the breach. This ransom note informs victims that their files have been encrypted and that personal or company data might have been exfiltrated, thus exerting additional pressure to comply with the payment demands.

Unfortunately, due to the sophistication of the encryption algorithms used by ETHAN Ransomware, free decryption tools are not presently available. The nature of asymmetric encryption, like RSA, means that an individual decryption key is necessary for each victim, which the cybercriminals hold in their possession. Despite the grave situation this presents, it is essential not to comply with ransom demands, as payment does not guarantee the retrieval or restoration of data. Many times, cybercriminals fail to provide a functioning decryption solution even after receiving payment. For victims wishing to recover their files, the only guaranteed method involves restoration from a backup that was created prior to the infection and stored in a secure, isolated environment. In cases where a backup is unavailable, victims are strongly advised to wait for potential developments in ransomware decryption technology and maintain diligent cybersecurity practices to prevent future infections.

How ETHAN Ransomware infects computers

ETHAN Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through deceptive means, typically leveraging phishing attacks or drive-by downloads. Cybercriminals often disguise malicious files as legitimate attachments or links in emails and messages, tricking users into downloading the ransomware. Once executed, ETHAN exploits system vulnerabilities or employs trojans to gain deeper access, facilitating its encryption process. It may also spread via compromised websites or through the use of malicious ad campaigns, known as malvertising, that redirect users to sites hosting the ransomware. Additionally, ETHAN can propagate across networks, targeting shared drives and connected devices to maximize its reach. Effective cybersecurity measures, such as updated antivirus software and user awareness, are crucial in preventing infection.

1. Download ETHAN Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .ETHAN 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 ETHAN Ransomware

ETHAN Ransomware files:


READ_NOTE.html
{randomname}.exe


ETHAN Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .ETHAN files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .ETHAN 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 .ETHAN 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 ETHAN 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 .ETHAN 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 ETHAN 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. ETHAN 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