How to remove TRUST FILES Ransomware and decrypt .XSHC files

What is TRUST FILES Ransomware

TRUST FILES Ransomware is a malicious software that encrypts the victim’s data and demands a ransom in exchange for decryption capabilities. Categorized as ransomware, it specifically appends the file extension .XSHC to the encrypted files, transforming ordinary file names into a pattern that includes a unique ID, the attackers’ email address, followed by the .XSHC extension, such as 1.jpg.[ID-H89435Q].[TrustFiles@skiff.com].XSHC. The encryption method employed by TRUST FILES is complex and typically involves strong cryptographic algorithms, making unauthorized decryption nearly impossible without the specific decryption key held by the attackers. Upon infecting a system, this ransomware alters the desktop background and creates ransom notes, namely #README-TO-DECRYPT-FILES.txt and #README.hta, which are strategically placed in folders containing encrypted files. The ransom notes serve to inform victims of the encryption, demand a Bitcoin payment for the decryption key, and provide warnings against using third-party decryption tools or seeking help from data recovery services, claiming these actions might render the encrypted data unrecoverable.

With no available decryption tools for TRUST FILES ransomware currently, victims are left with limited options. The complexity of modern encryption alongside TRUST FILES’ secure handling of keys means that without the criminals’ specific decryption software, recovering file access independently is unlikely. While the ransom notes offer a method to test file decryption to instill confidence in victims, security experts strongly advise against paying the ransom due to the potential for non-receipt of the promised solution. The safer alternative involves restoring data from backups made prior to the infection. In the absence of a valid backup, professional data recovery services might offer limited hope if the encryption is improperly implemented or certain files remain unencrypted. It is essential for individuals and organizations to frequently update and store backups in secure locations, disconnected from the network, to mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks like TRUST FILES.

How TRUST FILES Ransomware infects computers

TRUST FILES Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through deceptive tactics such as phishing emails, malicious attachments, and compromised links. Cybercriminals craft convincing emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, enticing users to open attachments or click on links that initiate the malware download. Additionally, this ransomware may be bundled with software from untrustworthy download sites, or through drive-by downloads where simply visiting a compromised website can trigger the infection. Once executed, TRUST FILES quickly begins encrypting files on the system, adding a unique identifier and the “.XSHC” extension to affected files. This ransomware can also propagate through network drives, potentially affecting additional connected devices and increasing the scope of its damage. Users are often unaware of the infection until they receive a ransom note demanding payment for the decryption key, emphasizing the need for vigilance and robust security measures to prevent such breaches.

1. Download TRUST FILES Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .XSHC 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 TRUST FILES Ransomware

TRUST FILES Ransomware files:


#README-TO-DECRYPT-FILES.txt
{randomname}.exe


TRUST FILES Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .XSHC files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .XSHC 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 .XSHC 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 TRUST FILES 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 .XSHC 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 TRUST FILES 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. TRUST FILES 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