How to remove XiN Ransomware and decrypt .XiN files

What is XiN Ransomware

XiN Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to encrypt a victim’s data and demand payment for the decryption key. Belonging to the Xorist ransomware family, this malware appends the .XiN extension to the filenames of the encrypted files, making them inaccessible without the decryption key. For example, if the original file was named document.txt, it would appear as document.txt.XiN after encryption. The ransomware uses a sophisticated encryption algorithm that is often very difficult to break without the specific keys that are generated during the encryption process. This cryptographic technique ensures that the victim is compelled to pay the ransom to regain access to their files. Once the files are encrypted, XiN Ransomware creates a ransom note to inform the victim of the situation. This note appears both as a pop-up window and as a text file named HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.txt.

The ransom note typically demands a payment of 950 USD in Bitcoin and provides instructions on how to make this payment. Unfortunately, there are currently no decryption tools available for .XiN files created by this ransomware. Decrypting the encrypted files without the attackers’ involvement is usually impossible due to the complex nature of the encryption algorithms used. Users are advised not to pay the ransom, as there is no guarantee that the attackers will provide the decryption key even after payment. Instead, victims should focus on removing the ransomware from their system and restoring data from backups, if available.

How XiN Ransomware infects computers

XiN Ransomware typically infiltrates computers through phishing emails, malicious attachments, and compromised websites. Cybercriminals often disguise the malware as legitimate files or software, tricking users into downloading and executing it. Once activated, the ransomware exploits system vulnerabilities or uses social engineering tactics to gain access. It can also propagate through infected external storage devices and local networks. Additionally, XiN Ransomware may be bundled with pirated software or obtained from dubious download sources, making it crucial for users to practice safe browsing habits and maintain updated security measures.

1. Download XiN Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .XiN 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 XiN Ransomware

XiN Ransomware files:


HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.txt
{randomname}.exe


XiN Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .XiN files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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