How to remove Starcat Ransomware and decrypt .starcat files

What is Starcat Ransomware

Starcat Ransomware is a malicious program identified as a form of ransomware that targets computer systems, encrypting files to extort money from victims. Once this ransomware infiltrates a system, it appends a specific extension, .starcat, to each encrypted file, rendering the user unable to access their personal data without a decryption key. Utilizing the advanced CHACHA20+RSA4096 encryption algorithm, Starcat ensures that decrypting affected files without the attackers’ designated key becomes virtually impossible. Victims of this ransomware will notice a change in their desktop wallpaper, along with the creation of a ransom note titled recover files,view here.txt. This note, written in multiple languages including English, Russian, and Chinese, demands a hefty sum of $5,000 in XMR (Monero) to decrypt the files and threatens victims with public exposure of their files if they fail to comply in a timely manner.

Decrypting files affected by Starcat ransomware remains a formidable challenge due to the robust nature of the encryption algorithm it employs. Currently, no free decryption tools are available publicly to reverse the .starcat encryption without paying the ransom or acquiring the decryption key from the attackers. It’s strongly advised against making any payment to the attackers, as this does not guarantee file recovery and may encourage further criminal activity. Instead, victims should focus on isolating the infected device, reporting the incident to authorities, and seeking professional guidance for potential data recovery solutions. Using data backup strategies, such as maintaining copies on external drives or secure cloud services, can help in recovery and mitigate the repercussions of such ransomware attacks. While the availability of a specific decryption tool is limited without the attackers’ key, information and tools provided by security firms may evolve, offering future hope for those affected.

How Starcat Ransomware infects computers

Starcat Ransomware primarily infects computers through deceptive methods often employed by cybercriminals. One common vector is malicious email attachments, where unsuspecting users open files that appear legitimate but actually contain the ransomware. Additionally, the malware can be distributed via compromised websites hosting pirated software or cracking tools, enticing users to download and execute the infected files. Vulnerabilities in outdated software or operating systems can also be exploited, allowing the ransomware to infiltrate systems without user intervention. Furthermore, Starcat can spread through malicious advertisements and infected USB drives, making physical and virtual connections potential entry points. Once on a device, it encrypts files and demands a ransom, leveraging the victim’s urgency to regain access to their data.

1. Download Starcat Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .starcat 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 Starcat Ransomware

Starcat Ransomware files:


recover files,view here.txt
{randomname}.exe


Starcat Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .starcat files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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