GURAM Ransomware: A Detailed Guide on Identification, Removal, and Prevention

Ransomware continues to evolve, with new variants emerging frequently. One such variant is GURAM ransomware, which targets users by encrypting their files and demanding a hefty ransom for decryption. This article will explore the nature of the GURAM ransomware, how it operates, the damage it causes, and most importantly, how to remove it from your system. Additionally, we will provide preventive methods to avoid future infections, ensuring that your digital life remains secure.

What Is GURAM Ransomware?

GURAM is a type of ransomware, a malicious software designed to encrypt files on a victim’s computer and hold them hostage until a ransom is paid. This ransomware operates by appending a unique extension to each encrypted file, making them inaccessible without the decryption key provided by the cybercriminals responsible for the attack. The specific extension added by GURAM is .{victim’s_ID}.GURAM.

For example, an original file named “1.jpg” would appear as “1.jpg.{F52F8167-EA78-785E-27DC-3EA48BD33F86}.GURAM” after the infection. This encryption renders the files unreadable, causing significant disruption to victims who rely on these files for personal or professional tasks.

Once the encryption process is completed, GURAM drops a ransom note in a text file named README.txt. The message inside this note is crucial as it contains the ransom demand, instructions for payment, and the contact details of the cybercriminals.

How Does GURAM Ransomware Spread?

Like most ransomware, GURAM spreads through a variety of methods, with the most common being:

1. Phishing Emails and Attachments: Cybercriminals often distribute ransomware by embedding malicious links or attachments in spam emails. These emails are designed to look legitimate, luring victims into opening them and triggering the ransomware infection.
2. Malicious Ads and Torrents: Another common vector for ransomware is malicious advertisements or pirated software downloads from torrent websites. Clicking on deceptive ads or downloading cracked software can lead to the installation of GURAM.
3. Exploit Kits and Malicious Downloads: Exploit kits are malicious tools that automatically detect and exploit vulnerabilities in software to install malware. These kits can silently install ransomware when victims visit compromised websites.

Once installed, GURAM operates by silently encrypting files in the background while the user remains unaware until the files become inaccessible.

Ransom Note and Demands

After encrypting files, GURAM displays a ransom note with the following details:

• Ransom Amount: GURAM demands a ransom payment of 10 Litecoin (LTC), which is approximately $1,000 USD at the time of writing. The ransom amount may increase if payment is delayed, ranging between $2,000 to $10,000 USD.
• Payment Instructions: The ransom note provides instructions on how to make the payment using Litecoin (LTC). The criminals provide a specific cryptocurrency wallet address to which the victim must send the ransom.
• Decryption Test: Victims are told that they can decrypt a single file to test the decryption process, but this service costs 1 Litecoin (about $100 USD).
• Threats: If the victim fails to make the payment within 24 hours, the ransom amount increases. Moreover, the criminals threaten to permanently delete the files if the victim does not comply.

Should You Pay the Ransom?

Although the ransom note may seem to offer a way out, paying the ransom is not recommended. Here’s why:

• No Guarantee of File Recovery: There is no assurance that the criminals will send the decryption key or software after receiving the payment. Many victims have paid the ransom only to find that their files remain inaccessible.
• Encouraging Criminal Behavior: Paying the ransom supports cybercriminals and funds further criminal activity. By refusing to pay, you help reduce the profitability of ransomware attacks.
• Possibility of Additional Infections: In some cases, ransomware like GURAM may install other types of malware alongside the encryption process. This could lead to further damage to your system, including password theft and other malicious activities.

How to Remove GURAM Ransomware

Removing ransomware like GURAM can be a complicated process. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to remove it from your system:

Disconnect from the Network

Disconnect your computer from the internet and any local network immediately to prevent the ransomware from spreading further. This step will also prevent the ransomware from communicating with the command-and-control server.

Enter Safe Mode

Boot your computer into Safe Mode to prevent the ransomware from running at startup. This will give you a better chance to remove the malware.

To enter Safe Mode:

• Restart your computer and press F8 (or the relevant key for your system) to access the Advanced Boot Options.
• Select Safe Mode with Networking.

Delete the Ransomware Files

Once in Safe Mode, you need to locate and delete the ransomware files. GURAM may hide its presence by using common filenames or disguising itself as a legitimate file. You can use a reliable malware removal tool to scan and detect GURAM and other related threats.

Use an Antivirus or Anti-Malware Tool

Run a full scan using an updated antivirus program or specialized anti-malware tool, like SpyHunter.

Restore Files from Backup

After removing GURAM, it is crucial to restore any encrypted files from a backup. If you do not have a backup, you may need to consider file recovery software, although success is not guaranteed.

Update Your System and Security Software

To avoid future infections, ensure that your operating system, software, and antivirus tools are up to date. Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software to deliver malware.

Preventive Methods to Avoid Future Ransomware Attacks

Preventing ransomware attacks requires a proactive approach. Here are some essential steps you can take:

1. Regular Backups: Regularly back up your files to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or remote server. This ensures that you can recover your data in the event of a ransomware attack.
2. Use Reliable Security Software: Ensure you have up-to-date antivirus or anti-malware software installed. These programs can detect and block ransomware before it can cause harm.
3. Avoid Suspicious Emails and Links: Be cautious when opening unsolicited emails, especially those with attachments or links. Verify the sender and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
4. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and security tools to patch any vulnerabilities that could be exploited by ransomware.
5. Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the risks and knowing how to recognize phishing emails and suspicious links can help you avoid falling victim to ransomware attacks.
6. Enable Email Filtering: Use email filtering to block known malicious attachments or phishing attempts. Many email providers offer built-in protection against malware-laden messages.

Conclusion

GURAM ransomware is a dangerous threat that encrypts files and demands a significant ransom for decryption. Victims are urged to avoid paying the ransom and focus on removing the malware and recovering their files from backups. By following the removal guide and adopting preventive methods, you can protect your system from future ransomware attacks.

GURAM Ransomware’s Text File (“README.txt“)

Text presented in the “README.txt” ransom note:

Your files are encrypted. To decrypt files you need to pay 10 LTC = 1000 $

You need to send cryptocurrency 10 LTC=1000$ to the address

ltc1qdwectzwfhuap0q9xsqh7t433568py527vxvtq9

ltc1qdwectzwfhuap0q9xsqh7t433568py527vxvtq9

ltc1qdwectzwfhuap0q9xsqh7t433568py527vxvtq9

You have 24 hours to send proof of payment to payfast1000@onionmail.org
payfast2000@onionmail.org

If you need a test file. It will cost 1LTC=100 $

If 24 hours pass and you do not pay, the cost of restoring your files will cost $2000-10000