DarkNetRuss Ransomware

DarkNetRuss is a ransomware variant of CyberVolk that locks your files with strong encryption, appends .DarkRuss_CyberVolk to their names, and drops a threatening ransom note—DECRYPT_INSTRUCTIONS.txt. It not only encrypts your documents and images but also claims to have wiped backups and monitored your webcam and keystrokes. Here’s how to fight back.

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Threat Summary

Category	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware (Crypto Virus, Files Locker)
Encrypted File Extension	.DarkRuss_CyberVolk
Ransom Note Filename	DECRYPT_INSTRUCTIONS.txt
Email/Contact	Via Session Messenger (instructions included in note)
Detection Names	FileRepMalware [Misc], W64.AIDetectMalware, Variant of WinGo/Filecoder.NG, HEUR:Exploit.Win32.BypassUAC.b, Trojan:Win32/Phonzy.B!ml
Symptoms	Inaccessible files with .DarkRuss_CyberVolk extension; ransom note displayed; inability to open affected documents/photos
Damage & Distribution	Files encrypted and unusable; possible accompanying trojans. Spread via pirated software, cracking tools, tech-support scams, email attachments, torrent sites, malvertising
Danger Level	High – Strong encryption, extended data exposure threats, aggressive extortion tactics. No free decryption tool available

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How Did I Get Infected With DarkNetRuss Ransomware?

Most victims fall prey through social engineering—clicking malicious email attachments or links, using pirated software, fake activation keys, torrent downloads, or dodgy ads. These are disguised as legitimate tools or content to trick users into launching the ransomware.

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What DarkNetRuss Ransomware Does to Your Files

Once activated, DarkNetRuss encrypts personal and business files using strong algorithms, adds the .DarkRuss_CyberVolk extension, and drops a ransom note that claims your backups were deleted. The note also alleges that a keylogger and webcam tracker were active, threatening to publish sensitive content if the ransom isn’t paid within 12 hours.

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Should You Be Worried About DarkNetRuss Ransomware?

Absolutely. This ransomware combines dangerous encryption with psychological threats to pressure victims. Paying the ransom is risky—there’s no guarantee your files will be restored, and it could make you a repeat target. The data theft and surveillance claims also add serious privacy concerns.

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Ransom Note Dropped by DarkNetRuss

The ransom note—DECRYPT_INSTRUCTIONS.txt—includes the following threats:

• Claims your system was accessed via zero-day vulnerabilities
• States all data is encrypted and backups were destroyed
• Mentions active keylogging and webcam monitoring for up to 72 hours
• Demands cryptocurrency payment within 12 hours
• Threatens to release or sell your data if you don’t comply
• Asks victims to send proof of payment via Session Messenger

These tactics are designed to instill panic and rush you into paying. Stay calm and don’t engage.

Manual Ransomware Removal Guide

Warning: Manual removal is complex and risky. If not done correctly, it can lead to data loss or incomplete removal of ransomware. Only follow this method if you are an advanced user. If unsure, proceed with Method 2 (SpyHunter Removal Guide).

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

1. Unplug your Ethernet cable or disconnect Wi-Fi immediately to prevent further communication with the ransomware’s command and control (C2) servers.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

For Windows Users:

1. For Windows 10, 11:
   • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
   • Go to the Boot tab.
   • Check Safe boot and select Network.
   • Click Apply and OK, then restart your PC.
2. For Windows 7, 8:
   • Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows loads.
   • Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
2. Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
3. Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes

For Windows Users:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
3. Right-click on the process and select End Task.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
2. Look for unusual processes.
3. Select the process and click Force Quit.

Step 4: Delete Malicious Files

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
2. Delete all files in the Temp folder.
3. Navigate to:
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
   • C:\Windows\System32
4. Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
2. Type ~/Library/Application Support and delete suspicious folders.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/LaunchAgents and remove unknown .plist files.

Step 5: Remove Ransomware from Registry or System Settings

For Windows Users:

Warning: Incorrect changes in the Registry Editor can damage your system. Proceed with caution.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
3. Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
4. Right-click and select Delete.

For Mac Users:

1. Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
2. Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/Preferences and remove malicious .plist files.

Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
2. Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
3. Choose a backup prior to the ransomware infection and restore your system.

Step 7: Use a Decryption Tool (If Available)

• Visit No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) and check if a decryption tool is available for your ransomware variant.

Step 8: Recover Files Using Backup

• If you have backups on an external drive or cloud storage, restore your files.

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Automatic Ransomware Removal Using SpyHunter

If manual removal seems too risky or complicated, using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter is the best alternative.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

Download SpyHunter from the official link: Download SpyHunter

Or follow the official installation instructions here:
SpyHunter Download Instructions

Step 2: Install SpyHunter

1. Open the downloaded file (SpyHunter-Installer.exe).
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
3. Once installed, launch SpyHunter.

Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Click on Start Scan Now.
2. SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
3. Wait for the scan to complete.

Step 4: Remove Detected Threats

1. After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
2. Click Fix Threats to remove the ransomware.

Step 5: Use SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk (If Needed)

If you are dealing with a stubborn ransomware variant, SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk provides custom fixes to remove advanced threats.

Step 6: Restore Your Files

If your files are encrypted:

• Try No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) for decryption tools.
• Restore from cloud storage or external backups.

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Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks

• Keep backups on an external hard drive or cloud storage.
• Use SpyHunter to detect threats before they infect your system.
• Enable Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
• Avoid suspicious emails, attachments, and links.
• Update Windows, macOS & software regularly.

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Conclusion

DarkNetRuss is a ruthless ransomware strain that uses fear, encryption, and extortion to profit off your data. Don’t let cybercriminals win—use legitimate tools to remove the infection, restore your system from backups, and harden your defenses to prevent future attacks.