Remove Hush Ransomware

Hush ransomware is a newly discovered file-encrypting malware that locks user data and demands payment for decryption. This ransomware was identified through malware samples submitted to VirusTotal and is nearly identical to the MoneyIsTime ransomware. Upon execution, it encrypts files and appends the “.hush” extension, making them inaccessible without the decryption key. Victims are then presented with a ransom note titled “README.TXT”, which provides contact information for the cybercriminals and instructions on how to pay the ransom.

Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Name	Hush Ransomware
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.hush
Ransom Note File Name	README.TXT
Associated Emails	pasmunder@zohomail.eu, famerun@email.tg
Telegram Contact	@pasmunder
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (Dump:Generic.Ransom.BlackLockbit.A.D827E35D), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.OOW), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/FileCoder.ARAE!MTB)
Symptoms of Infection	Files cannot be opened, filenames modified with .hush extension, ransom note displayed, ransom demand in cryptocurrency
Damage	Files are encrypted and cannot be opened without the decryption key, possible data theft, installation of additional malware
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, fake software cracks, torrent sites, malicious ads, outdated software vulnerabilities
Danger Level	High

How Hush Ransomware Works

When Hush ransomware infects a system, it immediately begins encrypting files using an advanced encryption algorithm. Each encrypted file is appended with a victim’s unique ID followed by the “.hush” extension. For example:

• 1.jpg → 1.jpg.{46C24BB5-0253-9846-ECCA-6ED8EE59F446}.hush
• 2.png → 2.png.{46C24BB5-0253-9846-ECCA-6ED8EE59F446}.hush

After encryption, Hush drops a ransom note on the system, warning victims not to rename their files or use third-party decryption tools, as this could result in permanent data loss.

Hush Ransom Note

The ransom note “README.TXT” contains the following message:

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YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
Your files, documents, photos, databases, and other important files are encrypted.
You are not able to decrypt it by yourself! The only method of recovering files is to purchase a unique private key.
Only we can give you this key, and only we can recover your files.

To be sure we have the decryptor and it works, you can send an email: pasmunder@zohomail.eu and decrypt one file for free.
But this file should be of not valuable!

Do you really want to restore your files?
Write to email: pasmunder@zohomail.eu
Reserved email: famerun@email.tg
Telegram: @pasmunder

Attention!

• 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 increase the price (they add their fee to ours), or you can become a victim of a scam.
• We have been in your network for a long time. We know everything about your company, and most of your information has already been downloaded to our server. We recommend you do not waste your time if you don’t want us to start the second phase.
• You have 24 hours to contact us.
• Otherwise, your data will be sold or made public.

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Threat Overview

Hush ransomware follows a typical double-extortion scheme where attackers not only encrypt the victim’s files but also claim to have stolen sensitive data. The threat actors use intimidation tactics to pressure victims into paying the ransom, warning that their data will be leaked or sold if they fail to comply within 24 hours.

Since no known free decryption tool is available for Hush ransomware, victims have limited options. Paying the ransom is not recommended, as it does not guarantee file recovery and encourages further attacks.

How Hush Ransomware Spreads

Hush ransomware is distributed through various attack vectors, including:

• Malicious email attachments (macros in Word or Excel documents)
• Fake software cracks and key generators
• Torrent websites hosting pirated content
• Compromised websites that deliver malware via drive-by downloads
• Malicious ads (malvertising)
• Unpatched vulnerabilities in outdated software or operating systems

Impact and Danger Level

Hush ransomware is a high-risk malware due to its ability to encrypt files, demand ransom payments, and potentially leak sensitive data. Without backups or third-party decryption tools, victims may suffer permanent data loss. Additionally, ransomware infections often come bundled with other malware, such as password stealers and banking trojans, which can further compromise system security.

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

1. Immediately disable Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable to prevent the ransomware from communicating with remote servers.
2. This can prevent additional encryption or further infections.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

For Windows Users

1. 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.
2. Windows 7/8:
   • Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows starts.
   • Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

For Mac Users

1. Restart your Mac and hold the Shift key immediately after the startup chime.
2. Release the key when the Apple logo appears.
3. Your Mac will boot in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Identify and Terminate Malicious Processes

Windows

1. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Look for unusual processes consuming high CPU or memory.
3. Right-click on the suspicious process and select End Task.

Mac

1. Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
2. Look for unknown or high-resource-consuming processes.
3. Select the suspicious process and click Force Quit.

Step 4: Delete Ransomware Files

Windows

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to:
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
   • C:\Windows\System32
2. Identify and delete suspicious files (randomly named or recently modified items).
3. Clear temporary files:
   • Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
   • Delete all files in the Temp folder.

Mac

1. Open Finder and select Go > Go to Folder.
2. Type ~/Library/Application Support and check for unfamiliar files or folders.
3. Remove unknown .plist files from ~/Library/LaunchAgents.

Step 5: Remove Ransomware Entries from Registry or System Settings

Windows

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
3. Identify and delete ransomware-related registry entries.

Mac

1. Open System Preferences > Users & Groups.
2. Select the Login Items tab and remove any unknown startup programs.
3. Check ~/Library/Preferences for malicious settings.

Step 6: Restore System Using a Backup or Restore Point

Windows

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and press Enter.
2. Choose a restore point from before the infection and proceed.

Mac

1. Restart your Mac and enter macOS Utilities by holding Command + R.
2. 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.

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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

1. Open the downloaded file (SpyHunter-Installer.exe or .dmg for Mac users).
2. Follow the installation prompts.
3. Launch SpyHunter upon completion.

Step 3: Run a Full System Scan

1. Click Start Scan Now to detect malware and ransomware.
2. Wait for the scan to complete and review detected threats.

Step 4: Remove Detected Ransomware

1. Click Fix Threats to remove identified ransomware components.
2. SpyHunter will clean your system automatically.

Step 5: SpyHunter’s Custom Malware HelpDesk

1. 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.

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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

Hush ransomware is a highly dangerous malware that encrypts files and demands payment in exchange for a decryption key. Victims are advised not to pay the ransom, as cybercriminals may not provide the decryption tool. Instead, it is crucial to have strong security measures in place, such as keeping backups, using updated software, and avoiding suspicious email attachments.

This ransomware highlights the growing threat of cyber extortion and the importance of proactive cybersecurity awareness to prevent such infections.