Held Ransomware Overview
Held ransomware is a type of harmful software that locks your important files by encrypting them, making it impossible to access them. It works silently in the background, spreading through methods like trojans or other malware that try to steal user data. This makes it hard to notice before it infects your system.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to remove the Held ransomware from your computer and discuss ways to recover your files after the attack, even though its encryption and system changes make this very challenging.
What is Held Ransomware?
Most infections happen when someone unknowingly opens a bad email attachment or downloads a harmful file. Once installed, Held ransomware can cause serious damage, sometimes even pretending to be a legitimate Windows update to stay hidden.
It uses advanced RSA encryption to lock your files and adds the .held extension to them. Afterward, a ransom note, usually named _README.txt, appears, asking for payment. The attackers typically demand $999 but offer a discounted price of $499 for quick payment, usually in Bitcoin, claiming they will send a tool to unlock your files.
The ransom note is a key part of the attack. It tells victims their files are encrypted and gives steps to recover them. It includes the ransom amount, payment instructions, and contact information for the attackers.
The Held ransomware note explains that each victim’s files are locked with a unique key. It says the only way to get the files back is to buy both a decryption tool and the key, which is specific to each victim.
To appear trustworthy, the attackers may offer to decrypt one file for free. However, they set restrictions, such as refusing to unlock files containing sensitive information. They also warn victims against seeking external help, claiming it could lead to losing the free offer or falling for scams.
The note provides email addresses to contact the attackers and a time-limited discount for early payment. It pressures victims to act quickly, warning that delays will increase the cost. Despite these promises, there is no guarantee that paying the ransom will recover all files. Many victims report that even after payment, the attackers demand more money or fail to provide the decryption tool as promised.
Why You Should Avoid Paying the Ransom
Paying the ransom funds the attackers’ activities, helping them create more advanced attacks in the future. This fuels a cycle of cybercrime that is hard to stop. Experts recommend exploring other recovery options and consulting a professional before deciding to pay.
It’s important to note that paying doesn’t guarantee your files will be recovered. Worse, it may encourage more criminal activity. Instead, victims should focus on alternative methods for recovery and report the attack to authorities or cybersecurity experts.
The note reads as follows:
ATTENTION!
Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
Do not ask assistants from youtube and recovery data sites for help in recovering your data.
They can use your free decryption quota and scam you.
Our contact is emails in this text document only.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool.
Price of private key and decrypt software is $999.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $499.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.
To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@freshingmail.top
Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
support@yourbestemail.top
Your personal ID:
Sharing habits with most STOP/Djvu ransomware variants, the Held ransomware represents over 70% of individual ransomware attacks since its 2018 inception. It introduced many features now common across ransomware targeting individuals, such as ransom demands, notification methods, and backup prevention measures.
Held Ransomware
STOP/Djvu ransomware, including the Held variant, spreads through similar channels, namely software cracks, unlicensed programs, and dubious internet tools. Specifically, it leverages single-use websites that offer trending items like new movies or software cracks. These sites often pushed to the top of search results through spam techniques, host malicious links that deliver ransomware.
Initially, cybercriminals inject downloader malware that paves the way for the ransomware by disabling security defenses, such as Windows Defender, and implementing changes to hinder antivirus programs from blocking or removing the ransomware.
The Held Virus Encryption Process
Held ransomware typically infiltrates systems through deceptive methods designed to trick users into unknowingly allowing it access. Often, this ransomware arrives as an executable file, usually with a .exe extension, disguised as something harmless. It might be hidden inside a compressed ZIP folder, embedded in macros within Microsoft Office documents, or attached to emails. These tactics help the ransomware spread across various systems and networks.
Another major route for Held ransomware is through pirated software. Torrent sites and peer-to-peer file-sharing platforms, which often lack proper security controls, provide a breeding ground for malware. Cybercriminals exploit these unregulated channels to distribute ransomware easily, making it a common tactic for the Held variant.
In addition, more covert methods, like trojans or worms, can allow Held ransomware to enter systems without detection. These hidden threats are hard to identify, highlighting the need for strong cybersecurity measures. Using comprehensive anti-malware programs and security tools to carefully scan email attachments and software downloads for signs of malware is essential for protection.
It’s important to note that many online downloads are infected with hidden malware, crafted to evade detection. Basic checks, such as reviewing file sizes, are often insufficient to uncover these threats. Being extra cautious and thoroughly inspecting downloads is key to avoiding attacks from malware like the Held virus.
To ensure persistence, Held ransomware clones its executable file into obscure directories, avoiding detection by most antivirus software.
Removing Held and Ransomware Protection
Given its sophistication, detecting and removing ransomware demands the utmost care. The Held virus, known for hindering security software execution, requires you to bypass these restrictions for successful removal and system recovery.
Loaris Trojan Remover stands out as the premier choice for eradicating the ransomware threat and restoring your system. It boasts an advanced scanning engine that detects ransomware in all forms and allows for targeted scans with its Custom Scan feature.
To navigate around the ransomware’s execution blocks, boot your PC in Safe Mode with Networking. This can be done through the Troubleshooting panel by restarting your PC while holding the Shift key, navigating to Startup Settings, and selecting Windows 10 Safe Mode with Networking.
In Safe Mode, launch the Loaris installer, follow the installation prompts, and activate the free trial for full functionality.
Conduct a full scan, review the list of detected threats, and proceed with the recommended removal actions.
Decrypting Held Files
Decrypting files affected by Held ransomware might seem daunting, but not all hope is lost. The malware uses two key types – online and offline – with the latter offering a ray of hope for decryption.
Emsisoft’s free tool for STOP/Djvu decryption leverages collected keys to offer victims a chance at recovering their files.
Decryption with Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu
Install the Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu from the official website, set it up by specifying target folders, and initiate the decryption process.
If Emsisoft’s tool cannot decrypt your files, consider file recovery tools as an alternative. For example, PhotoRec, a free tool, can recover files deleted by ransomware by searching for residual data left on the disk.
Recovering .Held Files with PhotoRec
Download PhotoRec, specify the disk or partition and desired file formats for recovery and start the recovery process to salvage your encrypted data.
Frequently Asked Questions
🤔 Can I decrypt the online key ID by myself?
Deciphering the online ID used by Held ransomware is currently beyond the reach of modern computing, potentially taking millions of years due to its complexity. The most effective alternative is employing file recovery tools, as detailed above.
🤔 Can Trojan Remover decrypt files?
While Trojan Remover excels at eliminating Held ransomware and repairing the aftermath on your PC, it doesn’t decrypt files. For decryption attempts, please use the recommended tools.