Threat Database Ransomware Energy Ransomware

Energy Ransomware

Energy Ransomware is a malicious computer infection classified as a data locking virus or crypto-malware. The virus is designed to encrypt data on a computer and demand a ransom amount for the files to be decrypted. The virus was discovered by malware researcher S!Ri, who spotted the virus extorting huge sums of money from innocent users.

The virus worms its way into your system and then encrypts all the personal files it can find. The ransomware encrypts documents, text files, images, video, and audio files, among others. It uses AES and RSA encryption to store files and lock them. The affected files' names are changed to include the ".energy" file extension and the attacker's email address. Finally, the virus creates a ransom note called "HOW_TO_DECYPHER_FILES.txt" and places it in affected folders and on the desktop.

Text presented in Energy ransomware‘s text file ("HOW_TO_DECYPHER_FILES.txt"):

To recover your data contact the email below
potentialenergy@mail.ru
Key Identifier:

Number of files that were processed is: –

The ransom note explains the virus encrypts files with a powerful cryptographic algorithm. Victims are told to establish contact with the cyber-criminal behind the attack to arrange for decryption. Victims can contact the attacker through the email address. The message also lists how many files are affected and a key identifier needed for decryption. The note doesn’t specify the size of the ransom but notes that victims can get a discount by establishing contact quickly.

Another thing to note is that attackers say they will decrypt one file for free as proof their decryption tool works. The file must not contain important data and should be smaller than 1MB. The ransom note closes with a warning that if victims attempt to restore their files using third-party tools, they could permanently lose their data. The message also says that victims should make payments via bitcoin and within 72 hours of encryption.

Should I Pay the Ransom?

It can be tempting to pay the ransom because it feels like the fastest way to solve the problem. However, there is no proof that cybercriminals will hand over the decryption key or tools after receiving payment. There is also no guarantee that these tools will work. There is no way to track who took your money once you send the payment. If the key doesn’t work, then you’ve lost your money as well as your files. It is common for ransomware actors to disappear after receiving the money. It is for these reasons that experts always recommend against making the ransom payment.

How to Restore Files Affected by Energy Ransomware

The ransomware encrypts the data on your computer and eliminates almost every option to restore them. It deletes system restore points and shadow volume copies, making it near-impossible to restore files. It can also disable the antivirus program on your computer to leave your system open to further infection.

The good news is that there is an option to get your data back. The first thing to do is to remove the ransomware. Antimalware and antivirus tools should be able to remove the infection. Once the infection is removed, you can use either an external backup or data recovery software to try and get your data back.

How Does Energy Ransomware Infect Computers?

The most common infection method for this ransomware is spam email attachments. Energy also intrudes on systems through freeware installations and fake program/system updates. Spam emails typically come from cybercriminals. These emails are disguised to appear as genuine as possible, and they contain malicious links and attachments. The attachments appear just as legitimate as the legitimate as the email. People are tricked into opening a link or downloading an attached file. Interacting with the attachment causes an installation of the virus.

Freeware programs are handy tools, but they can come with malware pre-packaged. When users don’t check the custom installation options on these software packages, there is a chance that viruses are automatically installed alongside the freeware program. Make sure you know what you are putting on your computer.

Software downloaded from peer-to-peer networks, and malicious third-party sites are also an infection risk. Avoid using torrents and illegal downloads, as these are breeding grounds for computer threats.

How to Prevent Energy Ransomware Infections

The most essential step you can take to protect your computer is to avoid spam emails. Check the email for grammatical errors, especially if you don’t know the sender. It would be best if you never opened an email attachment unless you are sure who sent the message.

Take care when downloading freeware programs too. Double-check the custom options to see what, if anything, is being installed. Finally, make sure to keep programs updated through secure and official channels.

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