Veluth ransomware is a newly discovered file-encrypting malware that appends the .veluth
extension to compromised files and drops a ransom note titled veluth.readme.txt
. This crypto-virus locks victims out of their data and demands payment for decryption. The attackers communicate via Signal messenger using the handle @Veluth.01. No free decryption tool is currently available.
Veluth Ransomware Overview
Veluth is a crypto-ransomware strain that encrypts files on infected systems, rendering them inaccessible. It modifies filenames by appending the .veluth
extension and drops a ransom note named veluth.readme.txt
. The attackers instruct victims to contact them via Signal messenger (@Veluth.01) for decryption instructions. Currently, there is no publicly available decryptor for Veluth.
Veluth Ransomware Summary
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Ransomware (Crypto Virus, File Locker) |
Encrypted File Extension | .veluth |
Ransom Note File Name | veluth.readme.txt |
Associated Contact | Signal messenger: @Veluth.01 |
Detection Names | Gen:Variant.Tedy.768861, A Variant Of Generik.ICIWQEJ, Generic.Malware.AI.DDS, ML.Attribute.HighConfidence |
Symptoms of Infection | Files encrypted with .veluth extension, ransom note present, desktop wallpaper changed, inaccessible files |
Damage | File encryption, potential data loss, system instability |
Distribution Methods | Phishing emails, malicious attachments, drive-by downloads, trojans, social engineering |
Danger Level | High |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter |
How Did I Get Infected?
Veluth ransomware typically spreads through:
- Phishing Emails: Malicious attachments or links in emails trick users into executing the ransomware.
- Drive-by Downloads: Visiting compromised or malicious websites can lead to automatic malware downloads without user consent.
- Trojan Downloaders: Other malware present on the system may download and install Veluth.
- Social Engineering: Attackers may deceive users into downloading and running the ransomware under false pretenses.
What Does Veluth Ransomware Do?
Upon execution, Veluth ransomware:
- Encrypts Files: Targets and encrypts various file types, appending the
.veluth
extension. - Drops Ransom Note: Creates a file named
veluth.readme.txt
containing ransom instructions. - Changes Desktop Wallpaper: Replaces the desktop background with a message directing victims to open the “VeluthDecrypter” tool.
- Demands Ransom: Instructs victims to contact the attackers via Signal messenger (@Veluth.01) to negotiate payment for file decryption.
Should You Be Worried?
Yes. Veluth ransomware poses a significant threat due to its strong encryption methods and lack of available decryption tools. Paying the ransom does not guarantee file recovery and may encourage further criminal activity. It’s crucial to remove the ransomware promptly and restore files from secure backups if available.
Ransom Note Text
The ransom note (veluth.readme.txt
) typically contains the following message:
Your files have been encrypted.
To decrypt them, contact us via Signal messenger: @Veluth.01.
Do not attempt to modify the files or use third-party decryption tools, as this may result in permanent data loss.
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
Veluth ransomware is a dangerous malware that encrypts files and demands payment for decryption. Due to the absence of a free decryptor, it's essential to remove the ransomware using a reliable security tool like SpyHunter and restore files from backups. Avoid paying the ransom, as it does not guarantee file recovery and supports criminal activities.