ITSA Ransomware

ITSA ransomware is a newly identified file-encrypting malware strain that appends the “.itsa” extension to compromised files and demands a ransom in exchange for the decryption key. It targets a wide range of personal and system files, rendering them inaccessible to the victim. After encryption, a ransom note named “Decryption Instructions.txt” is dropped, instructing the victim to contact the attackers through ventutusa@gmail.com.

---

Threat Overview

ITSA ransomware is a typical crypto-virus that uses strong encryption to lock files on the infected system. Victims are unable to access any of their important documents, media, or work files unless they pay the ransom, which may or may not result in file recovery. This ransomware can enter systems through various deceptive tactics and can cause substantial data loss.

---

ITSA Ransomware Summary

Category	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.itsa
Ransom Note Filename	Decryption Instructions.txt
Contact Email	ventutusa@gmail.com
Detection Names	Win64:Evo-gen [Trj], Generic.Ransom.Prince.A.9276AF41, Filecoder.Prince.A, Trojan-Ransom.Win64.Generic, Ransom:Win64/Filecoder.NIT!MTB
Symptoms	Files encrypted with .itsa extension, ransom note appears, file access denied
Damage	File encryption, possible data loss, risk of secondary infections
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, pirated software, fake software updates, exploit kits
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

---

In-Depth Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

ITSA ransomware typically spreads through:

• Malicious spam emails containing infected attachments
• Software cracks or keygens downloaded from shady sites
• Fake software updates or installers
• Malicious advertisements and compromised websites

Once the malware is executed, it silently runs in the background, encrypting files and then notifying the victim via a ransom note.

What Does It Do?

After infecting a system, ITSA ransomware:

• Encrypts a wide range of file types and appends the .itsa extension
• Drops a ransom note named “Decryption Instructions.txt”
• Demands that the victim contact ventutusa@gmail.com for payment instructions
• Warns users not to rename or modify files to avoid permanent damage

There is no publicly available decryptor for this ransomware as of now.

Should You Be Worried?

Absolutely. ITSA ransomware can lead to permanent loss of personal data, business documents, and critical system files. Even if you consider paying the ransom, there’s no guarantee of recovering your data, and it only encourages further criminal activity. It’s essential to remove the malware immediately using trusted security software and avoid reinfection by tightening cybersecurity practices.

---

Ransom Note Text

vbnetCopyEdit-------- ITSA Ransomware --------
Your files have been encrypted using ITSA Ransomware.
They can only be decrypted by paying us a ransom in cryptocurrency.

Encrypted files have the .itsa extension.
IMPORTANT: Do not modify or rename encrypted files, as they may become unrecoverable.

Contact us at the following email address to receive payment instructions:
ventutusa@gmail.com
-------- ITSA Ransomware --------

---

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

ITSA ransomware is a serious threat capable of causing widespread data loss. It encrypts files, appends a unique extension, and demands ransom via email communication. The best response is to remove ITSA ransomware immediately using trusted anti-malware software like SpyHunter. Backups, safe browsing habits, and updated security tools are essential for prevention.