How to remove Hush Ransomware and decrypt .hush files

What is Hush Ransomware

Hush Ransomware is a malicious software designed to encrypt files on a victim’s computer and demand a ransom in exchange for a decryption key. Once executed, it goes through the system, encrypting various file types such as documents, images, and databases. A noticeable feature of this ransomware is its alteration of file names, appending each with a victim’s unique ID and the .hush extension. For example, a file named document.pdf would become document.pdf.{uniqueID}.hush, effectively rendering it inaccessible without the decryption key. The encryption algorithm utilized by Hush is sophisticated, often involving strong cryptographic standards that ensure only those with the correct decryption key can unlock the files. This demonstrates a significant challenge to victims, as decrypting the files without cooperation from the attackers is theoretically infeasible with current technology. A threat is certainly compounded by the creation of a ransom message known as README.TXT, which is typically generated on the victim’s desktop or within encrypted folders.

This note informs victims of the encryption and demands a ransom payment, typically in bitcoins, offering to decrypt one file for free as proof of their capability. Unfortunately, there are currently no official decryption tools available for Hush Ransomware, as it employs encryption practices that have yet to be exploited by security researchers. Victims are generally advised against paying the ransom, as it does not guarantee file recovery and provides no assurance that the decryption key will be supplied. To potentially recover files, it is recommended to check the “No More Ransom” project for any updates on decryption tools, although success is not guaranteed. Users are encouraged to rely on backups, if available, as the most viable means of restoring their data without engaging with the cybercriminals.

How Hush Ransomware infects computers

Hush Ransomware infiltrates computers through a variety of deceptive methods commonly employed by cybercriminals. One primary tactic involves phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links, which, when opened, initiate the ransomware download. Additionally, Hush may spread through compromised websites and malicious advertisements that exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software or operating systems. Users who download pirated software, key generators, or cracking tools from unreliable sources also put themselves at risk, as these files are often bundled with ransomware. Moreover, Hush can propagate through infected USB drives and P2P networks, further expanding its reach. To mitigate the risk of infection, it is essential to maintain updated software, exercise caution with email attachments, and rely only on trusted sources for downloads.

1. Download Hush Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .hush 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 Hush Ransomware

Hush Ransomware files:


README.TXT
{randomname}.exe


Hush Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .hush files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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