Arcus Ransomware: A Comprehensive Guide to Detection, Removal, and Prevention

Ransomware is a malicious form of malware that encrypts files on an infected system, rendering them inaccessible to the user. Typically, the attackers then demand a ransom in exchange for decrypting these files. Ransomware can cause severe financial, operational, and emotional distress for individuals and organizations alike, as vital data is held hostage with the threat of permanent loss. Among the numerous ransomware threats currently targeting systems worldwide, the Arcus ransomware has gained notoriety due to its sophisticated methods and severe consequences.

What is Arcus Ransomware?

Arcus ransomware is identified in two variants. One variant is based on the Phobos ransomware. Both variants encrypt files and modify filenames by adding specific extensions. The extension varies depending on the variant.

In the Phobos-based variant, the ransomware renames files by appending the victim's unique ID, a contact email address, and the ".Arcus" extension. For example, a file named "1.jpg" would be renamed to "1.jpg.id[9ECFA84E-3537].[arcustm@proton.me].Arcus," and "2.png" would become "2.png.id[9ECFA84E-3537].[arcustm@proton.me].Arcus." Additionally, a ransom note is dropped as an "info.txt" file, and a pop-up window is displayed.

The second variant renames files by appending "[Encrypted].Arcus" to filenames. For instance, "1.jpg" would be renamed to "1.jpg[Encrypted].Arcus." This variant also drops a ransom note named "Arcus-ReadMe.txt."

Installation and Spread of Arcus Ransomware

Arcus ransomware infiltrates a system through various deceptive means, such as phishing emails with malicious attachments, drive-by downloads, or compromised software. Upon installation, it embeds itself deeply within the system, establishing control and starting the encryption process almost immediately. This ransomware also disables certain system functionalities to prevent the user from regaining control and blocks access to critical files by encrypting them.

Consequences of Arcus Ransomware Infection

The impact of an Arcus ransomware infection is severe. As soon as encryption completes, the ransomware leaves a ransom note on the infected system. This note typically informs the user about the ransomware attack, the encryption of their files, and instructions for paying the ransom to obtain a decryption key. Unfortunately, payment doesn’t guarantee file recovery, as cybercriminals may fail to provide a decryption key even after the ransom is paid. The ransom note may resemble the following message:

!!! You Have Been Compermized !!!

All Of Your Sensitive Data Encrypted And Downloaded.
In Order to Keep Your Sensitive Data Safe And Decrypt Files You Have to Contact Us.

Mail Us on : arcustm@proton.me or arcusteam@proton.me 
Tox Us on : F6B2E01CFA4D3F2DB75E4EDD07EC28BF793E541A9674C3E6A66E1CDA9D931A1344E321FD2582
LeakBlog : hxxp://arcuufpr5xx*********************************hszmc5g7qdyd.onion

As much as you Contact Faster Your Case Will be resolved Faster.

You Will Be listed In our LeakBlog in Case You Dont Contact in 7 Days .

Text in this ransom note:

Arcus 
You Have Been Compermized
All Of Your Sensitive Data Encrypted And Downloaded
What Happened?
Unfortunately We Have to Let you Know Your Company Targeted By Arcus 
Your Network Has been Compermized and Sensitive Data Downloaded And Encrypted.

What Should You Do ?
In Order to Keep Your Sensitive Data Safe And Decrypt Files You Have to Contact Us 
You Should Pay Small Fee That Will be Negotiated After You Contacted Us 
After Completing Steps Files Will deleted from servers and you will receive Decrypt keys and Program What Happens if You Dont Negotiate?
Your Company Will Be Listed in Our LeakBlog
So Medias Will Spread News About The Hack and You Will Lose Your Reputations
The Data Will be Open For Sale To Everyone After 14 Days
So You Have to Face with GDPR LAW And Customers 
Your Team Should Explain To Customers And Court How they failed Protecting Personal Data
Contacting the police will not save you from these consequences, and lost data, will only make your situation worse. 
Your Sensitive Data Will Leaked all Over Internet At The End

How to Contact Us
Write us to the mails: arcustm@proton.me or arcusteam@proton.me
in Case you did not get Answer in 24 hours or if you Look for Safer way You Can Download Tox Chat And Contact : F6B2E01CFA4D3F2DB75E4EDD07EC28BF793E541A9674C3E6A66E1CDA9D931A1344E321FD2582
Also You might Take Look At Our LeakPage Download TOR Browser and Look For : hxxp://arcuufpr5xx*********************************hszmc5g7qdyd.onion 
As much as you Contact Faster Your Case Will be resolved Faster
We Always Contact You With Proves(Sensitive Files or Ask For Sample Decrypion)
Contact Ways are always updated in Leakpage.

Ransom note generated by the second Arcus variant ("Arcus-ReadMe.txt"):

All Of Your Sensitive Data Encrypted And Downloaded.

In Order to Keep Your Sensitive Data Safe And Recover Files You Have to Contact Us.

Download tox chat : hxxps://tox.chat/download.html
Add And Message Us on  :
F6B2E01CFA4D3F2DB75E4EDD07EC28BF793E541A9674C3E6A66E1CDA9D931A1344E321FD2582
In case No Answer in 24h Mail to : pepe_decryptor@hotmail.com

in case you don't contact in 3 Days You Will Posted In our LeakBlog ,
News about this Hack will ruin your reputation,
After 5 days ALL your Sensitive DATA (Customers Confidential Data, Company Finance, Contracts, etc ..)  will Published into LeakBlog,
you will face with GDPR and your own Customers , The People affected will get mail from us about this hack and how their Confidential Data is not Safe anymore.

You can download TOR browser and take look at our blog :
hxxp://arcuufpr5xx*********************************hszmc5g7qdyd.onion

Don't panic , Your Case will resolved as soon you contact us and you can back to work as before .
We hope you Consider Risk of Data Exposure.

>>> WARNING :
1. DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED DATA YOURSELF OR USE THIRD PARTY , IT MAY DAMAGE DATA AND LEAD TO PERMANENT DATA LOSS .
2. DO NOT STOP ENCRYPTION PROCESS , IT MAY DAMAGE DATA AND LEAD TO PERMANENT DATA LOSS .

Identifying Arcus Ransomware Infections

Arcus ransomware falls within a category of file-encrypting malware with distinct symptoms. Here are some common indicators:

• Altered File Extensions: Files will have a new extension (such as .arcus) appended to them.
• System Sluggishness: The ransomware consumes system resources, slowing down the performance.
• Ransom Note Files: A ransom note file will appear in multiple folders or on the desktop, usually named “README.txt” or something similar.
• Blocked Access to Files: Access to essential documents, images, and system files becomes impossible.
• Changes to System Settings: Ransomware may prevent users from accessing system settings or performing specific actions.

Detection Names for Arcus Ransomware

To identify Arcus ransomware, look for the following detection names in your antivirus or security software:

• Mal/Ransom-Arcus
• Trojan:Win32/Arcus.Ransom
• Ransom.Arcus
• W32/ArcusCrypt

Similar Threats

Several similar ransomware families pose equally significant threats, including:

• Dharma Ransomware
• Crysis Ransomware
• Phobos Ransomware

Each of these ransomware strains shares similar characteristics, such as file encryption and ransom notes, and may use comparable distribution methods.

Removing Arcus Ransomware

Below is a detailed guide to remove Arcus ransomware from an infected system:

1. Disconnect from the Internet: Disconnecting prevents further data exfiltration or command-and-control (C&C) communication with the ransomware servers.
2. Enter Safe Mode: Restart your computer in Safe Mode to limit the ransomware’s ability to execute automatically:
   • Press and hold the Shift key, then select Restart from the Power options.
   • Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings and select Enable Safe Mode.
3. Terminate Suspicious Processes
   • Open the Task Manager (press Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and look for suspicious or unfamiliar processes.
   • Right-click each suspicious process and select End Task.
4. Delete Ransomware Files
   • Go to File Explorer and search for recent files with suspicious names in C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming or other directories where malware often hides.
   • Delete any files or folders linked to Arcus.
5. Use Anti-Malware Software: Download and run a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter, to scan your system thoroughly. SpyHunter is capable of detecting and removing complex ransomware infections.
6. Restore Encrypted Files from Backup: If you have a recent backup, restore your files from it. Ensure your backup is free from ransomware infections before restoring it to your system.
7. Decrypt Files: Unfortunately, decryption may not be possible without the attacker’s key. You may attempt to use ransomware decryption tools from reputable security firms, though success varies by ransomware strain.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Future Ransomware Infections

To prevent future ransomware attacks, implement the following cybersecurity practices:

• Regularly Back Up Data: Store backup copies on external drives or secure cloud storage, disconnected from the internet after each backup.
• Enable Security Software: Use trusted antivirus and anti-malware programs like SpyHunter to protect against infections.
• Update Software Regularly: Ensure your operating system, browsers, and software are updated to close security loopholes.
• Exercise Caution with Email Attachments: Avoid opening unsolicited attachments or clicking links in unexpected emails.
• Implement Network Security Measures: Enable firewalls and limit user privileges to reduce vulnerability.

Download SpyHunter for 24/7 Ransomware Protection

SpyHunter is a powerful anti-malware tool equipped to detect, remove, and prevent ransomware attacks. Its advanced scanning algorithms help detect hidden threats, while regular updates protect against new forms of malware. Download SpyHunter today to scan your system for free and enhance your protection against Arcus and other malicious threats.