How to remove VXUG Ransomware and decrypt staff@vx-underground.org files

What is VXUG Ransomware

VXUG Ransomware is a malicious program that falls under the category of ransomware, specifically a variant of CryLock that is designed to encrypt files on a victim’s computer and demand ransom for their decryption. Originating from analyzes conducted on samples submitted to VirusTotal, this ransomware, once it infects a system, appends a distinctive filename extension pattern to the encrypted files. It alters original filenames by appending an email address such as staff@vx-underground.org, a number, and a unique victim’s ID. For example, document.docx might be renamed to document.docx[staff@vx-underground.org][1].[L98795R6-8Q7BPO517]. The encryption is done using the AES cryptographic algorithm, which is notorious for its security and complexity, making it nearly impossible to decrypt without the specific decryption key held by the attackers. Upon completion of the encryption process, a ransom note named how_to_decrypt.hta is generated and presented to the affected user, detailing the condition of the files and the steps required to potentially restore them.

The ransom note communicates to the victim that their documents, databases, and other crucial files have been encrypted due to alleged security vulnerabilities. It provides instructions to contact the attackers through the provided email or Twitter, offering a decryption service in exchange for payment, often claiming a 50% discount for immediate action while threatening permanent file deletion past a certain deadline. Sadly, there are currently no known decryption tools available for VXUG Ransomware that can decrypt files without the attacker’s cooperation. Victims should be wary of paying the ransom since there’s no guarantee of file recovery, and it may encourage further malicious activity. The safest advice is to maintain regular backups of crucial files on offline or cloud storage. For those affected, it’s essential to disconnect the infected devices from networks immediately and consult cybersecurity experts for possible data recovery solutions while also considering contacting local authorities for further assistance.

How VXUG Ransomware infects computers

VXUG Ransomware primarily infects computers through deceptive digital channels, exploiting common security vulnerabilities. Users often encounter this ransomware via malicious email attachments and links, which are cleverly disguised as legitimate communications to prompt unsuspecting recipients to open them. Cybercriminals also leverage compromised websites and malicious advertisements to deliver the ransomware payload, often hidden within downloads or seemingly harmless software updates. Additionally, VXUG can spread through pirated software and file-sharing networks, where users inadvertently download infected files. The ransomware leverages outdated software and system vulnerabilities to infiltrate devices, making it crucial for users to maintain updated security measures and exercise caution when interacting with unsolicited digital content. Once executed, VXUG encrypts the victim’s files and demands a ransom for decryption, threatening further damage or data loss if the ransom is not paid.

1. Download VXUG Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for staff@vx-underground.org 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 VXUG Ransomware

VXUG Ransomware files:


how_to_decrypt.hta
{randomname}.exe


VXUG Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore staff@vx-underground.org files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt staff@vx-underground.org 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 staff@vx-underground.org 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 VXUG 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 staff@vx-underground.org 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 VXUG 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. VXUG 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