VanHelsing is a ransomware-type malware designed to encrypt files on a victim’s computer and demand payment for their decryption. It follows a double extortion model, meaning that attackers not only encrypt the files but also threaten to leak sensitive data if the victim refuses to pay. Once infected, files are appended with the “.vanhelsing” extension, and a ransom note titled “README.txt” appears on the desktop, informing victims about the attack.
Summary of the VanHelsing Ransomware Threat
Below is a summary of the VanHelsing ransomware characteristics:
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker |
Encrypted File Extension | .vanhelsing |
Ransom Note Filename | README.txt |
Detection Names | Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.VanHelsing.A), Fortinet (W32/PossibleThreat), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Agent.gen), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Sonbokli.A!cl) |
Symptoms of Infection | Inaccessible files with a new extension (.vanhelsing), ransom note displayed, desktop wallpaper change, system slowdowns |
Damage | Encrypted files, potential data leaks, additional malware infections |
Distribution Methods | Phishing emails, malicious downloads, fake updates, drive-by downloads, illegal software cracks, malicious ads, trojans |
Danger Level | High |
VanHelsing Ransomware Ransom Note
Upon infection, VanHelsing ransomware displays the following ransom message:
–= No news is a good news ! =–
Your network has been breached and all your files Personal data, financial reports and important documents has been stolen, encrypted and ready to publish to public.
If you willing to continue your bussines and make more money and keep bussines secret safe you need to restore your files first, And to restore all your files you have to pay the ransom in Bitcoin.
Don’t bother your self and wast your time or make it more harder on your bussines, we developed a locker that can’t be decrypted using third part decrypters.
Making your self geek and trying to restore the files with third part decrypter this will leads to lose all your date ! and then even you pay the ransom can’t help you to restore your files even us.
To chat with us:
1 – Download Tor browser hxxps://www.torproject.org/download/
2 – Go to one of these links above
3 – You will be asked for your ticket id to enter the chat this for you: TICKET ID
Similar Ransomware Threats
VanHelsing ransomware shares characteristics with other ransomware families, such as Anubi (Anubis), SuperBlack, and GKICKG. These threats also encrypt files and demand a ransom, often using various encryption methods and targeting different victims, ranging from individual users to large enterprises.
Manual Ransomware Removal Process
Important: Manual removal is recommended only for experienced users, as incorrect actions can lead to data loss or incomplete removal of the ransomware. If unsure, consider the SpyHunter Removal Method for a guided, automated solution.
Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet
- Immediately disable Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable to prevent the ransomware from communicating with remote servers.
- This can prevent additional encryption or further infections.
Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode
For Windows Users
- Windows 10/11:
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig
, and press Enter. - Under the Boot tab, select Safe boot and check Network.
- Click Apply, then OK, and restart your PC.
- Press Windows + R, type
- Windows 7/8:
- Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows starts.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.
For Mac Users
- Restart your Mac and hold the Shift key immediately after the startup chime.
- Release the key when the Apple logo appears.
- Your Mac will boot in Safe Mode.
Step 3: Identify and Terminate Malicious Processes
Windows
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Look for unusual processes consuming high CPU or memory.
- Right-click on the suspicious process and select End Task.
Mac
- Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
- Look for unknown or high-resource-consuming processes.
- Select the suspicious process and click Force Quit.
Step 4: Delete Ransomware Files
Windows
- Open File Explorer and navigate to:
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
C:\Windows\System32
- Identify and delete suspicious files (randomly named or recently modified items).
- Clear temporary files:
- Press Windows + R, type
%temp%
, and hit Enter. - Delete all files in the Temp folder.
- Press Windows + R, type
Mac
- Open Finder and select Go > Go to Folder.
- Type
~/Library/Application Support
and check for unfamiliar files or folders. - Remove unknown
.plist
files from~/Library/LaunchAgents
.
Step 5: Remove Ransomware Entries from Registry or System Settings
Windows
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit
, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
- Identify and delete ransomware-related registry entries.
Mac
- Open System Preferences > Users & Groups.
- Select the Login Items tab and remove any unknown startup programs.
- Check
~/Library/Preferences
for malicious settings.
Step 6: Restore System Using a Backup or Restore Point
Windows
- Press Windows + R, type
rstrui
, and press Enter. - Choose a restore point from before the infection and proceed.
Mac
- Restart your Mac and enter macOS Utilities by holding Command + R.
- Select Restore from Time Machine Backup and restore a safe backup.
Step 7: Attempt to Decrypt Files
- Check No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) for available decryption tools.
- If unavailable, restore files from backups.
Automated Ransomware Removal with SpyHunter
If manual removal is too complex or risky, SpyHunter offers a safer, automated method for detecting and removing ransomware.
Step 1: Download SpyHunter
- Get SpyHunter from the official Enigma Software website.
Step 2: Install SpyHunter
- Open the downloaded file (
SpyHunter-Installer.exe
or.dmg
for Mac users). - Follow the installation prompts.
- Launch SpyHunter upon completion.
Step 3: Run a Full System Scan
- Click Start Scan Now to detect malware and ransomware.
- Wait for the scan to complete and review detected threats.
Step 4: Remove Detected Ransomware
- Click Fix Threats to remove identified ransomware components.
- SpyHunter will clean your system automatically.
Step 5: SpyHunter’s Custom Malware HelpDesk
- If ransomware persists, use SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk for custom malware fixes.
Step 6: Restore Files
- Use backups stored on external drives or cloud storage.
- If no backup is available, check No More Ransom for decryption tools.
Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks
- Keep backups: Use cloud storage or an external hard drive.
- Install a reliable security tool: SpyHunter offers real-time protection against malware.
- Enable Windows Defender or Mac security features for additional protection.
- Avoid phishing emails and unknown attachments.
- Regularly update Windows, macOS, and installed applications.
Conclusion
VanHelsing ransomware is a dangerous threat that locks users out of their files and uses extortion tactics to demand payment. Unfortunately, there is no free decryption tool available, and paying the ransom does not guarantee file recovery. To avoid infection, users should exercise caution with email attachments, avoid suspicious downloads, and use reliable security software.
If you are still having trouble, consider contacting virtual technical support.