How to remove UwU Ransomware and decrypt .MOONMAN files

What is UwU Ransomware

UwU Ransomware is a type of malicious software classified under ransomware, notorious for encrypting victims’ files and demanding a ransom for decryption. This ransomware particularly targets users’ data by appending the file extension .MOONMAN to the encrypted files, making the data unusable without the specific decryption key held by the attackers. For instance, a file named document.docx would be transformed into document.docx.MOONMAN after encryption. The cryptographic algorithms utilized by UwU ransomware are typically robust, making decryption without the attacker’s key practically impossible. Once the encryption process is completed, UwU creates a ransom note named READTHISNOW.txt, which serves to notify the victim of their files’ encryption and demand a payment of $1,488, specifically in the form of cryptocurrency referred to as “shitcoin”. The note, however, is unconventional as it does not directly convey that the files have been encrypted but instead is filled with obscure references and profanity.

In the current landscape, no free decryption tools have been publicly released that can decrypt files compromised by UwU ransomware, specifically those with the .MOONMAN extension. This emphasizes the challenge in decrypting infected files, often leaving victims in a position where recovery is only possible if they have previous backups of their data. Since UwU ransomware is developed with a competent encryption design, attempting to decrypt .MOONMAN files without the attackers’ private key is virtually impractical. It’s crucial for victims to refrain from paying the ransom, as this does not guarantee file recovery and further fuels the illegal operations of cybercriminals. Instead, users are encouraged to report the incident to relevant authorities and seek assistance from reputable cybersecurity consultants. Regular backups and comprehensive cybersecurity measures remain the most effective strategies against such ransomware threats.

How UwU Ransomware infects computers

UwU Ransomware, like many ransomware variants, typically infiltrates computers through deceptive tactics and malicious distribution methods. This ransomware often disguises itself within seemingly legitimate software or files, which are often distributed via phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links. Users may inadvertently download the ransomware when they open infected attachments or click on harmful links, believing them to be from trusted sources. Beyond email, UwU Ransomware can also spread through untrustworthy download sites, peer-to-peer sharing networks, and fake software updates, which exploit users’ lack of vigilance. Additionally, some variants can propagate through compromised websites, where drive-by downloads automatically install the malware onto the user’s system without any visible warning. Once inside, UwU Ransomware encrypts files and demands a ransom in cryptocurrency, leaving victims with limited options for file recovery unless they have pre-existing backups.

1. Download UwU Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .MOONMAN 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 UwU Ransomware

UwU Ransomware files:


READTHISNOW.txt
{randomname}.exe


UwU Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .MOONMAN files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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