New Dharma ransomware version appends .data file extension to encrypted filesCriminals have further demandsRansomware SummaryDiscussing ransomware distribution methods.data (Dharma) ransomware virus removal guide
Usually, the ransomware starts an encryption process right after the infection. Just as other variants, like GYGA ransomware, this particular cyber threat uses the combination of asymmetric and symmetric cryptographic algorithms to lock files. In other terms, it is a highly robust encryption process that requires a unique .data (Dharma) virus decryption key to unlock affected files. Otherwise, they remain unusable for regular activities. Cybercriminals state that victims should not worry as the encrypted data can be restored. For that, they ask to contact them by e-mailing to the given address immediately. Attackers promise to get back within 12 hours. If users do not get a response, they are insisted to reach out again. Additionally, victims must include their unique ID for the attackers to be able to identify them. This information is provided in the ransom note that appears as a text file. The developers of this ransomware do not specify the demanded amount of the ransom right away. Although, examining previous infections by this ransomware family, the ransom can rage from a few hundred up to a thousand US dollars. Just as with other file-encrypting viruses, attackers ask to transfer money exchanged to a cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin. Cryptocurrency payments are significantly harder to trace. Thus, this way cybercriminals can protect their identities.
Criminals have further demands
Despite from demanding to pay the ransom, the crooks also specify not to change encrypted file names and do not try using alternative decryption tools. Otherwise, they threaten to increase the price of the decryptor or it may lead to permanent data loss. Therefore, they try to not leave any other choice for their victims rather than agree to pay the ransom for the attackers. This is a common technique that helps to intimidate confused computer users and help the criminals to gain monetary benefits. However, trusting cybercriminals is not only reckless but also facilitates the development of further infections. Our security team suggests you to remove .data (Dharma) ransomware virus immediately. After the elimination, you can try to restore locked files by using backup copies from the Cloud or wait for the release of verified decryption tools by malware researchers. For .data (Dharma) removal we suggest using professional malware removal tool of your choice. To repair virus damage on the system, consider scanning with RESTORO.
Ransomware Summary
Discussing ransomware distribution methods
Ransomware does not appear on the computer without the human factor. In other terms, users’ reckless activity while browsing the Internet lead to ransomware infiltration. Cybercriminals aim to disguise malware and trick people into installing it on their systems by themselves. For that, they either use peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing networks or malicious spam e-mail campaigns. Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are generally used to illegally distribute legitimate software. Since the crooks spotted high interest in such sites, they decided to exploit if for their own benefit. They upload ransomware executables and rename them as well-known software cracks. Likewise, unsuspecting computer users believe that they are downloading programs. Unfortunately, they install ransomware-type infections. Therefore, it is essential to stop using illegal file-sharing websites if you want to protect your computer. Furthermore, criminals discovered that many people do not pay attention while opening e-mails. Attackers designed electronic letters that seem to come from popular companies or even banks. They urge the users to update their details by clicking on the appended link. Although, the link is programmed to start an automatic installation of ransomware. Thus, people who open spam e-mail risk to infect their systems.
.data (Dharma) ransomware virus removal guide
Ransomware-type infection is the most dangerous one that can be encountered by a regular computer user. Also, it is the only one that cannot be uninstalled manually. You must remove .data (Dharma) ransomware virus by getting an in-person help from a professional or using a robust malware removal software. It is the only way to safely clean your system and ensure that you might be able to restore the encrypted information. For .data (Dharma) removal we highly recommend using automatic removal tool. You must run a full system scan to get rid of all malware-related components. Later, RESTORO is a useful tool to fix virus damage and protect your computer from various cyber threats in the future. You can find instructions on how to start the elimination procedure below. These instructions will explain how to boot your computer into safe mode and indicate the removal steps that must be followed. Afterward, you can proceed to restoring your files from backup copies. OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system: GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more. Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs. Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer. Read full review here. RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically. RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them. Read full review here.
Alternative software recommendations
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove the virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, see a video tutorial on how to do it: Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10 users Now, you can search for and remove .data (Dharma) ransomware virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable malware removal program. In addition, we suggest trying a combination of INTEGO Antivirus (removes malware and protects your PC in real-time) and RESTORO (repairs virus damage to Windows OS files).
Method 2. Use System Restore
In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically. Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10 users After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won’t be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future. Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.
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