DEV Ransomware

DEV ransomware is a newly discovered malware threat that encrypts victims’ files and demands a ransom payment for the decryption key. As a variant of the Snatch ransomware family, DEV exhibits high-level encryption capabilities and employs a coercive ransom note to pressure victims into compliance. Cybercriminals behind this strain aim to paralyze system operations and extort payments through carefully crafted messages and encryption tactics.

---

Overview of the Threat

DEV ransomware follows the classic double-extortion methodology: it encrypts files on the victim’s system and drops a ransom note to instruct users on how to retrieve their data. Its payload alters file structures by appending a specific extension and deploying a detailed ransom message.

---

DEV Ransomware Details

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware
Encrypted File Extension	.dev
Ransom Note File Name(s)	HOW TO RESTORE YOUR FILES.TXT
Associated Email Addresses	restore_help@tuta[.]io, restore_back@tuta[.]io
Detection Names	Avast (Win64:Snatch-L [Ransom]), Microsoft (Ransom:Win64/Snatch!MSR)
Symptoms of Infection	Files inaccessible with .dev extension; ransom note in directories
Damage & Distribution	Data encryption, system lockdown, potential data exfiltration; spread via malicious attachments, trojans, RDP exploits
Danger Level	Critical
Removal Tool	SpyHunter Ransomware Removal Tool

---

In-Depth Evaluation of the DEV Ransomware

How Did I Get Infected?

Users typically contract DEV ransomware through malicious spam email attachments, trojan-infected downloads, cracked software installers, or exposed RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) services. Once executed, the payload encrypts targeted files and renders them unusable.

What Does DEV Ransomware Do?

After infiltrating a system, DEV ransomware encrypts a wide range of file types using robust cryptographic algorithms. It appends the .dev extension to affected files and drops a ransom note titled HOW TO RESTORE YOUR FILES.TXT. This note outlines how victims can contact the attackers to allegedly purchase a decryption tool.

In some cases, DEV may also attempt to disable security solutions and manipulate system recovery options to increase pressure on victims.

Should You Be Worried About This Threat?

Yes. DEV ransomware represents a significant cybersecurity threat due to its potential to cause irreversible data loss, business disruption, and financial extortion. The operators claim to delete the decryption key if not contacted within a limited timeframe, increasing urgency and potential impact. Its links to the notorious Snatch family make it especially dangerous.

---

Ransom Note Text

The content of the HOW TO RESTORE YOUR FILES.TXT ransom note is as follows:

All your files are encrypted!

Your computer has been infected with a malware and your files have been encrypted.
The encryption algorithm used is very strong, without the original key you will not be able to recover your files.

To recover your files, you need to contact us by email:
restore_help@tuta.io or restore_back@tuta.io

In the letter, include your personal ID:
-

We will then provide you with further instructions.

You can attach up to 3 files for free decryption.
Please note that files must not contain any valuable information.

The sooner you contact us, the better the chance to recover your files.

If you do not contact us within 3 days, the decryption key will be destroyed.

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

Conclusion

DEV ransomware is a severe ransomware threat that encrypts users’ files, threatens data loss, and seeks to extort victims into paying a ransom. Its ties to the Snatch ransomware group and advanced encryption make it especially harmful to both individuals and enterprises. If you suspect an infection, act immediately and use reputable tools like SpyHunter to assist in the removal of the malware. Avoid paying the ransom — it offers no guarantee of file recovery and only funds future cybercrime.