LegionRoot Ransomware

LegionRoot ransomware is a newly identified file-encrypting malware that targets Windows systems. It encrypts users’ files and demands a ransom in Bitcoin for decryption. This ransomware is particularly dangerous due to its use of strong encryption algorithms and its potential to install additional malware on infected systems.

---

Threat Overview

LegionRoot operates by encrypting files on the victim’s system and appending a random string of characters to each filename. For example, “document.docx” might become “document.docx.ZQJWWm&X&W”. After encryption, it drops a ransom note named “LegionRoot_ReadMe.txt”, demanding $500 in Bitcoin for the decryption key. The attackers claim to use the RSA encryption algorithm, making decryption without their key virtually impossible. They also provide an email address for communication.

---

LegionRoot Ransomware Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	Random string appended to filenames (e.g., “.ZQJWWm&X&W”)
Ransom Note Filename	LegionRoot_ReadMe.txt
Contact Email	ExDevilCorp@proton.me
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:MalwareX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (Generic.Ransom.Spora.5F86F43F), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/Filecoder.AK), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.MSIL.Encoder.g)
Symptoms of Infection	Files encrypted with random extensions, ransom note displayed, inability to open files
Damage	File encryption, potential installation of additional malware, data loss
Distribution Methods	Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

---

In-Depth Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

LegionRoot typically spreads through phishing emails with malicious attachments, downloads from untrustworthy sources like torrent sites, and malicious advertisements. Opening a compromised file or clicking on a malicious link can initiate the infection process.

What Does It Do?

Once executed, LegionRoot encrypts files on the infected system using the RSA algorithm. It appends a random string to each filename and creates a ransom note instructing the victim to pay $500 in Bitcoin to a specified wallet address. The attackers offer to decrypt one file for free as proof of their ability to restore the data.

Should You Be Worried?

Absolutely. LegionRoot not only encrypts your files but may also install additional malware, such as password-stealing trojans. Paying the ransom does not guarantee the recovery of your files and supports criminal activities. It’s crucial to remove the ransomware promptly and restore files from a secure backup.

---

Ransom Note Text

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

Your files have been encrypted using RSA encryption.
To decrypt your files, you must pay $500 in Bitcoin to the following address:
bc1q9nr6d76499jnl7z3g9sdtnv7r2kuf3qckecnmq
After payment, contact us at ExDevilCorp@proton.me with your transaction ID.
We will then provide you with the decryption key.
To prove our ability to decrypt your files, you may send one encrypted file, and we will decrypt it for free.

---

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

LegionRoot ransomware is a severe threat that can lead to significant data loss and potential further infections. Immediate action is required to remove the malware and restore your system. Utilizing a reputable anti-malware tool like SpyHuntercan aid in the removal process. Always maintain regular backups and exercise caution when handling emails and downloads to prevent future infections.