Oct 16, 2011 Thanks for responding. Comcast sent an email stating my computer is infected with a bot and to remove it immediately. I also had an email from wow that someone tried to change my account email address. I ran a norton virus scan and nothing. Spybot - Search & Destroy ® is a robust program to detect and remove spyware on Windows. Since there is NOT an official version for Mac OS X. If you want to prevent spyware, malware, adware slipping into your Mac, then download the best Spybot for Mac alternative by clicking the right button. Anti-Malware was, for example, one of the few malware removal tools that could detect and remove the Antivirus XP 2008, a spyware application that masqueraded as an antivirus app. The Anti-Malware. RSS Bot for Mac works well and would be a good solution for those looking for a functional and easy-to-use application for following newsfeeds. Editors' Review. By Download.com staff / June 24.
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Bot ransomware removal instructions
What is Bot?
Belonging to the Crysis/Dharma malware family and discovered by Jakub Kroustek, Bot is malicious software categorized as ransomware. Bot operates by encrypting data and demanding ransom payments for decryption (i.e. payment for decryption software/tools and keys). During the encryption process, all files are renamed with a unique ID number generated individually for each victim, Bot developer's email address, and the '.bot' extension. Therefore, '1.jpg might be renamed to a filename such as '1.jpg.id-1E857D00.[[email protected]].bot', and so on for all files. After this process is complete, a text file ('RETURN FILES.txt) is created on the desktop and a pop-window is displayed. Updated variants of this ransomware use '.[[email protected]].bot', '.[[email protected]].bot' and '.[[email protected]].bot' extensions for encrypted files.
The text file informs affected users that their data has been encrypted. If they wish to retrieve it, they must contact the cyber criminals behind Bot ransomware. The pop-up window contains a detailed ransom message. It states that victims' data has been encrypted using the RSA encryption algorithm, and to restore it, they must send an email using the address provided. Should there be no response, an alternative email address is provided. The email must contain the victim's unique ID number. The developers of Bot warn that decryption keys will only be stored on their servers for seven days and, therefore, victims must not delay in contacting them. As 'proof' of their ability to recover the data, the criminals offer to decrypt one file free of charge. The file must be no larger than 1 MB (non-archived) and contain no 'important information' such as backups, databases, large excel sheets, etc. The size of the ransom is not stated, however, it must be paid in the Bitcoin cryptocurrency. Once the transfer is complete, victims are promised detailed instructions about how to decrypt their data, a decryption program, and necessary keys. The message lists further warnings: users are instructed not to rename encrypted files or attempt manual decryption, otherwise they risk permanent data damage. There are no free tools capable of breaking Bot's encryption. Only the software used to encrypt files is capable of decryption. Nevertheless, you are strongly advised against meeting the ransom demands. Despite paying, users often receive none of the promised tools and their data remains encrypted and useless. The only solution is to restore files from a backup, provided one was made before the ransomware infection and stored separately.
Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data:
Typically, ransomware-type programs share certain similarities. For example, Uta, MedusaLocker, HORSELIKER, Bora are similar to Bot. Malicious software of this kind encrypts data and demands ransom payments for recovery. They differ by cryptographic algorithm used (symmetric or asymmetric) and the size of ransom. The latter usually ranges between three-digit and four-digit sums (in USD). Cyber criminals prefer digital currencies (e.g. cryptocurrencies, pre-paid vouchers, etc.), as these transactions are difficult/impossible to trace. Manual decryption (without the involvement of the developers) is impossible unless the ransomware is still in development and/or has bugs/flaws. To ensure data safety, keep backups on remote servers and/or unplugged storage devices. As these are liable to damage, store several backup copies in different locations.
How did ransomware infect my computer?
Malicious software/content is commonly proliferated through spam campaigns, trojans, untrustworthy download channels, fake software updaters, and 'cracking' tools. Massive scale spam campaigns are used to send out deceptive emails containing infectious attachments. These messages are usually marked as 'important', 'official', or otherwise highlighted as urgent mail. The attachments can be in various file formats (e.g. archive and executable files, PDF and Microsoft Office documents, JavaScript, etc.). When opened, they download/install malware. Trojans are malicious programs designed to cause chain infections. Untrustworthy download sources include P2P sharing networks (BitTorrent, eMule, Gnutella, etc.), unofficial and free file-hosting sites, third party downloaders and similar. These can offer deceptive and/or bundled content. Fake updaters exploit weaknesses in outdated programs and/or install malware rather than the promised updates. Software 'cracking' tools can download/install malicious programs, rather than activate licensed products.
Bot Removal Tool
Name | Bot virus |
Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker. |
Encrypted Files Extension | .bot (this ransomware also appends filenames with the victim's unique ID and developer's email address). |
Ransom Demanding Message | Pop-up window (HTML application) and RETURN FILES.txt text file. |
Cyber Criminal Contact | [email protected], [email protected] |
Detection Names | Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), BitDefender (Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.Crysis.P), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Crusis.to), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
Symptoms | Cannot open files stored on your computer, previously functional files now have a different extension (for example, my.docx.locked). A ransom demand message is displayed on your desktop. Cyber criminals demand payment of a ransom (usually in bitcoins) to unlock your files. |
Distribution methods | Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads. |
Damage | All files are encrypted and cannot be opened without paying a ransom. Additional password-stealing trojans and malware infections can be installed together with a ransomware infection. |
Malware Removal (Mac) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your Mac with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. ▼ Download Combo Cleaner for Mac To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available. |
How to protect yourself from ransomware infections
Irrelevant and suspicious emails should not be opened or read, especially if they are received from unknown senders (addresses). Any attachments or web-links within these emails must never be opened, as they are the cause of infections. You are strongly advised to use only official and verified download channels. Installed programs should be kept up-to-date using tools/functions provided by the genuine developers, and not via those obtained from third parties. The same extends to software activation. Illegal activation tools ('cracks') should never be used. Have a reputable anti-virus/anti-spyware suite installed and kept updated. This software should be used to perform regular system scans and for the elimination of potential threats. If your computer is already infected with Bot, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this ransomware.
Text presented in Bot ransomware pop-up window:
All FILES ENCRYPTED 'RSA1024'
All YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!!! IF YOU WANT TO RESTORE THEM, WRITE US TO THE E-MAIL [email protected]
IN THE LETTER WRITE YOUR ID, YOUR ID 1E857D00
IF YOU ARE NOT ANSWERED, WRITE TO EMAIL:[email protected]
YOUR SECRET KEY WILL BE STORED ON A SERVER 7 DAYS, AFTER 7 DAYS IT MAY BE OVERWRITTEN BY OTHER KEYS, DON'T PULL TIME, WAITING YOUR EMAIL
FREE DECRYPTION FOR PROOF
You can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
DECRYPTION PROCESS:
When you make sure of decryption possibility transfer the money to our bitcoin wallet. As soon as we receive the money we will send you:
1. Decryption program.
2. Detailed instruction for decryption.
3. And individual keys for decrypting your files.
!WARNING!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
All YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!!! IF YOU WANT TO RESTORE THEM, WRITE US TO THE E-MAIL [email protected]
IN THE LETTER WRITE YOUR ID, YOUR ID 1E857D00
IF YOU ARE NOT ANSWERED, WRITE TO EMAIL:[email protected]
YOUR SECRET KEY WILL BE STORED ON A SERVER 7 DAYS, AFTER 7 DAYS IT MAY BE OVERWRITTEN BY OTHER KEYS, DON'T PULL TIME, WAITING YOUR EMAIL
FREE DECRYPTION FOR PROOF
You can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
DECRYPTION PROCESS:
When you make sure of decryption possibility transfer the money to our bitcoin wallet. As soon as we receive the money we will send you:
1. Decryption program.
2. Detailed instruction for decryption.
3. And individual keys for decrypting your files.
!WARNING!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
Screenshot of Bot text file ('RETURN FILES.txt'):
Text presented in this file:
Screenshot of files encrypted by Bot ('.bot' extension):
Bot ransomware removal:
Instant automatic Mac malware removal:Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Mac malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for MacBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available.
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for MacBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available.
Quick menu:
- STEP 1. Bot virus removal using safe mode with networking.
- STEP 2. Bot ransomware removal using System Restore.
Step 1
Windows XP and Windows 7 users: Start your computer in Safe Mode. Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart, click OK. During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until you see the Windows Advanced Option menu, and then select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Video showing how to start Windows 7 in 'Safe Mode with Networking':
Windows 8 users: Start Windows 8 is Safe Mode with Networking - Go to Windows 8 Start Screen, type Advanced, in the search results select Settings. Click Advanced startup options, in the opened 'General PC Settings' window, select Advanced startup. Click the 'Restart now' button. Your computer will now restart into the 'Advanced Startup options menu'. Click the 'Troubleshoot' button, and then click the 'Advanced options' button. In the advanced option screen, click 'Startup settings'. Click the 'Restart' button. Your PC will restart into the Startup Settings screen. Press F5 to boot in Safe Mode with Networking.
Video showing how to start Windows 8 in 'Safe Mode with Networking':
Windows 10 users: Click the Windows logo and select the Power icon. In the opened menu click 'Restart' while holding 'Shift' button on your keyboard. In the 'choose an option' window click on the 'Troubleshoot', next select 'Advanced options'. In the advanced options menu select 'Startup Settings' and click on the 'Restart' button. In the following window you should click the 'F5' button on your keyboard. This will restart your operating system in safe mode with networking.
Video showing how to start Windows 10 in 'Safe Mode with Networking':
Step 2
Log in to the account infected with the Bot virus. Start your Internet browser and download a legitimate anti-spyware program. Update the anti-spyware software and start a full system scan. Remove all entries detected.
Combo Cleaner checks if your computer is infected with malware. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited three days free trial available.
If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking, try performing a System Restore.
Video showing how to remove ransomware virus using 'Safe Mode with Command Prompt' and 'System Restore':
1. During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until the Windows Advanced Options menu appears, and then select Safe Mode with Command Prompt from the list and press ENTER.
2. When Command Prompt mode loads, enter the following line: cd restore and press ENTER.
3. Next, type this line: rstrui.exe and press ENTER.
4. In the opened window, click 'Next'.
5. Select one of the available Restore Points and click 'Next' (this will restore your computer system to an earlier time and date, prior to the Bot ransomware virus infiltrating your PC).
6. In the opened window, click 'Yes'.
7. After restoring your computer to a previous date, download and scan your PC with recommended malware removal software to eliminate any remaining Bot ransomware files.
To restore individual files encrypted by this ransomware, try using Windows Previous Versions feature. This method is only effective if the System Restore function was enabled on an infected operating system. Note that some variants of Bot are known to remove Shadow Volume Copies of the files, so this method may not work on all computers.
To restore a file, right-click over it, go into Properties, and select the Previous Versions tab. If the relevant file has a Restore Point, select it and click the 'Restore' button.
If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking (or with Command Prompt), boot your computer using a rescue disk. Some variants of ransomware disable Safe Mode making its removal complicated. For this step, you require access to another computer.
To regain control of the files encrypted by Bot, you can also try using a program called Shadow Explorer. More information on how to use this program is available here.
To protect your computer from file encryption ransomware such as this, use reputable antivirus and anti-spyware programs. As an extra protection method, you can use programs called HitmanPro.Alert and EasySync CryptoMonitor, which artificially implant group policy objects into the registry to block rogue programs such as Bot ransomware.
Note that Windows 10 Fall Creators Update includes a 'Controlled Folder Access' feature that blocks ransomware attempts to encrypt your files. By default, this feature automatically protects files stored in the Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, Favorites, and Desktop folders.
Free Bot Software Download
Windows 10 users should install this update to protect their data from ransomware attacks. Here is more information on how to get this update and add an additional protection layer from ransomware infections.
HitmanPro.Alert CryptoGuard - detects encryption of files and neutralises any attempts without need for user-intervention:
Malwarebytes Anti-Ransomware Beta uses advanced proactive technology that monitors ransomware activity and terminates it immediately - before reaching users' files:
- The best way to avoid damage from ransomware infections is to maintain regular up-to-date backups. More information on online backup solutions and data recovery software Here.
Other tools known to remove Bot ransomware:
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