How to remove Revive Ransomware and decrypt .revive files

What is Revive Ransomware

Revive Ransomware is a malicious software entity that specifically targets user data to extort money. Originating from the Makop family of ransomware, it encrypts files to render them inaccessible, subsequently demanding that victims pay a ransom for the decryption key. During its encryption process, the ransomware appends each file name with a unique identifier followed by the attackers’ email address and concludes with the .revive extension. For instance, a file initially named document.txt would transform into document.txt.[uniqueID].[attackerEmail].revive on an infected system. The ransomware primarily employs sophisticated cryptographic algorithms, often making the decryption of files extremely challenging without the appropriate tools. After the encryption phase, Revive ransomware leaves behind a ransom note in the form of a text document titled +README-WARNING+.txt, which typically appears in directories with encrypted files. This note advises victims to contact the attackers directly for decryption instructions, warning against third-party attempts to unlock the data as purportedly leading to permanent loss.

Decryption tools for most ransomware types, including Revive, are unfortunately not available to the general public due to the complexity of the encryption methods used and the constantly evolving nature of these threats. Since the ransomware’s creators intentionally do not release the decryption keys without payment, recovering files without succumbing to their demands remains improbable. Victims are advised not to pay the ransom, as there is no guarantee that the attackers will honor their side of the agreement. Without a viable decryption tool or key, alternative solutions involve relying on previous backups of data to restore files. To decrypt .revive files, one would ideally need a backup or have to wait for cybersecurity experts to potentially develop a decryption utility. Additionally, engaging with cybersecurity forums or sites dedicated to ransomware victims may provide insights or new decryption breakthroughs. Meanwhile, isolating and removing the malware from the system using reputable antivirus software is crucial to prevent further damage or data encryption.

How Revive Ransomware infects computers

Revive Ransomware, a member of the Makop family, typically infiltrates computers through phishing and social engineering tactics that exploit user trust. Malicious actors often disguise the ransomware within seemingly legitimate files or bundle it with ordinary programs, making it appear harmless. Common distribution methods include infected email attachments, deceptive downloads from dubious websites, and malicious advertisements. Additionally, some forms of malware act as trojans or loaders, paving the way for Revive to install itself silently once a user interacts with the compromised content. The ransomware can also spread through local networks and external storage devices, such as USB drives, further amplifying its reach. As a result, users should exercise caution when handling unsolicited emails, downloading content from unofficial sources, and should always maintain up-to-date security software to mitigate the risk of infection.

1. Download Revive Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .revive 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 Revive Ransomware

Revive Ransomware files:


README-WARNING+.txt
{randomname}.exe


Revive Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .revive files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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