Fireee Ransomware

The Fireee Ransomware is a gerous malware threat that can lock up users' computers completely. It uses a powerful encryption algorithm that it uses to encrypt nearly all of the files stored on the compromised device with the exception being important system files that could result in critical crashes and errors if tampered with. It should be noted that after analyzing the threat, infosec researchers determined that it is a variant of the previously discovered the Makop Ransomware.

The first sign of the Fireee Ransomware's activity that users will most likely notice is the sudden change of all filenames belonging to encrypted files. Fireee Ransomware follows a complex pattern when it modifies the names. First, it appends a unique ID string that has been assigned to the specific victim. It then adds an email address - 'helpforyou@firemail.cc,' that victims can use for communication with the hackers. Finally, '.fireee' will be included as a new file extension. The threat drops its ransom note inside text files named 'readme-warning.txt' that will be created in every folder containing encrypted data.

The ransom note doesn't mention the exact sum that the hackers demand as a ransom, but it does clarify that the transaction must be made using Bitcoin, the most widely used cryptocurrency. The hackers also allow for two files that are not databases and are less than 1MB in size to be sent for free decryption. For that purpose, users can send an email to the aforementioned address at 'helpforyou@firemail.cc' or a jabber account at 'mrdoc8869@xmpp.jp.'

The full text of Fireee Ransomware's instructions is:

'::: Greetings :::

Little FAQ:

.1.

Q: Whats Happen?

A: Your files have been encrypted and now have the "fireee" extension. The file structure was not damaged, we did everything possible so that this could not happen.

.2.

Q: How to recover files?

A: If you wish to decrypt your files you will need to pay in bitcoins.

.3.

Q: What about guarantees?

A: Its just a business. We absolutely do not care about you and your deals, except getting benefits. If we do not do our work and liabilities - nobody will cooperate with us. Its not in our interests.

To check the ability of returning files, you can send to us any 2 files with SIMPLE extensions(jpg,xls,doc, etc... not databases!) and low sizes(max 1 mb), we will decrypt them and send back to you. That is our guarantee.

.4.

Q: How to contact with you?

A: You can write us to our mailbox: helpforyou@firemail.cc or jabber: mrdoc8869@xmpp.jp

.5.

Q: How will the decryption process proceed after payment?

A: After payment we will send to you our scanner-decoder program and detailed instructions for use. With this program you will be able to decrypt all your encrypted files.

.6.

Q: If I don’t want to pay bad people like you?

A: If you will not cooperate with our service - for us, its does not matter. But you will lose your time and data, cause only we have the private key. In practice - time is much more valuable than money.

:::BEWARE:::

DON'T try to change encrypted files by yourself!

If you will try to use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions - please make a backup for all encrypted files!

Any changes in encrypted files may entail damage of the private key and, as result, the loss all data.'

The message informs victims their files are encrypted with powerful encryption algorithms. The only way to remove the ransomware is with a decryption tool. Victims must purchase this tool from the attackers. People can get more information about paying the ransom demand by contacting the attackers via email or Jabber. The victim will allegedly receive their decryption key and details on using it once the payment clears. The note doesn't mention the price of the decryption tool. Instead, it explains that the price depends on how quickly a victim contacts the ransomware developer. Cybercriminals say that victims should make the payment in Bitcoin within 48 hours of establishing contact. Attackers offer victims the chance to have one file decrypted for free as proof their system works. The note also warns against renaming files or attempting to use third-party software to undo the encryption as this could cause permanent data loss.

Should Victims Pay the Ransom?

The only way to undo the encryption is indeed with the decryption tool the developers have. However, there are too many cases of people paying the ransom only to be scanned. Cybercriminals don't send them the tools that they pay for. We advise against paying the ransom as this is likely going to happen to you as well. Attackers end communication once they get their payment. Paying the ransom opens you up to losing your money as well as your data.

How to Restore Files Affected By Fireee Ransomware

Paying the money to the attackers is risky at best and a waste of money out of the worst. There are no guarantees you will get the decryption tool you pay for; they could even demand more money from you. Paying the ransom is nothing but a scam. Criminals don’t want to restore your data. One problem with ransomware is that it deletes data restore points and prevents other recovery methods. The only way to restore your data after a ransomware attack is by using a data backup. It may be possible to use third-party recovery software to get your data back. Mengwi sure that you remove Fireee ransomware before attempting to restore files, so they aren’t encrypted again.

How Does Firee Ransomware Affect Computers?

There are several ways for ransomware to get on computers. The primary infection methods are spam emails, fake software updates, software activation tools, and untrustworthy download sources. Attackers use spam emails to deliver malicious attachments and links to victims. These files could be Office or PDF documents, archive files, executable files, or JavaScript files. These attachments install ransomware on the computer when activated. Trojan viruses are another standard infection method. These are small viruses designed to bypass security software and install malware on computers. Avoid downloading software from untrustworthy sources and ensure you keep your programs and operating system updated to protect your computer.

How to Protect Your Computer From Fireee Ransomware

The first step to protecting your computer from viruses like this is to avoid opening links and attachments from unknown email addresses. Verify where an email came from if you do not recognize the name and address. Check the email for simple grammatical errors, they would not be present in a professional email. Avoid downloading software from third-party hosting sites. Also, avoid downloading illicit software from torrenting sites and file-sharing sites.