The STOP/Djvu Ransomware Family Grows with Another Variant: VFGJ Ransomware
Since its discovery in 2018, the STOP/Djvu Ransomware family has released hundreds of different variants as it quickly became one of the world’s most prominent ransomware groups. VFGJ Ransomware was uncovered by malware researchers as yet another strain from the family. It is referred to as VFGJ based on the .Vfgj extension it uses to append infected files. The ransomware operates like its counterparts from the STOP/Djvu group and encrypts files before making a ransom demand.
Vfgj Ransomware scans a victim’s computer to look for user-generated files. It then targets the files that contain valuable information, including databases, spreadsheets, archives, pictures, and videos. Additionally, the hackers behind VFGJ Ransomware deliver a ransom note that contains information regarding the ransomware and the hackers’ ransom demands.
The VFGJ Ransomware Ransom Demand
Vfgj Ransomware’s operators promise a decryption key to unlock the affected files in exchange for $980. However, they offer a 50% discount if victims establish communication within 72 hours after encryption. The ransom note also instructs users to contact the criminals via helpmanager@mail.ch or restoremanager@airmail.cc. Vfgj Ransomware’s operators also offer to decrypt one file for free to show that they can unlock all the affected files should the victim pay up.
How Do I Remove Vfgj Ransomware from My Computer?
Although cooperating with hackers seems like an easy way out of the situation, we strongly advise victims not to engage and employ a reputable malware remediation program to scan for and remove Vfgj Ransomware. To prevent data loss in the case of another ransomware attack, please consider backing up your data on an external hard drive or virtual cloud storage.