BlackEye Ransomware

CyberVolk BlackEye is a newly identified ransomware strain that encrypts victims’ files and demands payment for decryption. This malware is attributed to the CyberVolk group, a politically motivated hacktivist collective with pro-Russian affiliations. Initially known for DDoS attacks and website defacements, CyberVolk has expanded its operations to include ransomware attacks, targeting individuals and organizations worldwide.

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Overview of CyberVolk BlackEye Ransomware

CyberVolk BlackEye operates by encrypting files on the infected system and appending the “.CyberVolk_BlackEye” extension to each file. For example, a file named “document.pdf” would be renamed to “document.pdf.CyberVolk_BlackEye”. After encryption, the ransomware generates a ransom note titled “ReadMe.txt”, which provides instructions for the victim to contact the attackers via Telegram within 48 hours to purchase a decryption key using cryptocurrency. Failure to comply within the specified timeframe purportedly results in the permanent loss of the decryption key.

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CyberVolk BlackEye Ransomware Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.CyberVolk_BlackEye
Ransom Note File Name	ReadMe.txt
Associated Email Addresses	Not specified; contact via Telegram messenger
Detection Names	Avast (FileRepMalware [Misc]), Combo Cleaner (Trojan.Generic.38025972), Emsisoft (Trojan.Generic.38025972 (B)), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.GenericCryptor.luc), Symantec (Trojan.Gen.MBT)
Symptoms of Infection	Inaccessible files with “.CyberVolk_BlackEye” extension, presence of “ReadMe.txt” ransom note
Damage	Files encrypted and inaccessible without decryption key; potential data loss
Distribution Methods	Phishing emails, malicious attachments, drive-by downloads, torrent websites, malicious ads
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

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In-Depth Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

CyberVolk BlackEye ransomware is primarily distributed through phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links. Other common infection vectors include drive-by downloads from compromised websites, malicious advertisements, and downloads from torrent sites. Once the malicious file is executed, the ransomware encrypts files on the system and displays the ransom note.

What Does It Do?

Upon execution, CyberVolk BlackEye encrypts a wide range of file types, appending the “.CyberVolk_BlackEye” extension to each. It then creates a ransom note named “ReadMe.txt”, instructing the victim to contact the attackers via Telegram within 48 hours to obtain the decryption key. The note warns that any attempts to modify or rename the encrypted files may result in permanent data loss.

Should You Be Worried?

Yes. CyberVolk BlackEye poses a significant threat due to its strong encryption methods and the short timeframe given to victims to respond. The lack of a known decryption tool means that, without backups, victims may face permanent data loss. Additionally, paying the ransom does not guarantee that the attackers will provide the decryption key.

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Ransom Note Text

The ransom note “ReadMe.txt” contains the following message:

All your files have been encrypted by CyberVolk BlackEye.
Do not attempt to modify or rename the encrypted files, as this will result in permanent data loss.
To restore your files, contact us via Telegram within 48 hours to purchase the decryption key.
Failure to do so will result in the deletion of the decryption key, making file recovery impossible.

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

CyberVolk BlackEye is a dangerous ransomware variant linked to a politically motivated hacktivist group. Its encryption renders files inaccessible, and the absence of a known decryption tool leaves victims with limited options. It is crucial to avoid paying the ransom, as this does not guarantee file recovery and supports criminal activities. Instead, focus on removing the ransomware using reputable tools like SpyHunter and restoring files from secure backups.