DEVMAN, also identified as yAGRTb ransomware, is a recent and aggressive crypto-malware strain that encrypts victims’ files and threatens to leak stolen data unless a ransom is paid. This ransomware appends the .yAGRTb
extension to all encrypted files and drops a ransom note titled README.yAGRTb.txt
. Victims are instructed to contact the attackers via email or TOX chat to negotiate payment for data decryption and to prevent the public release of their data.
DEVMAN/yAGRTb Ransomware Overview
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Ransomware (Crypto-Ransomware) |
Encrypted File Extension | .yAGRTb |
Ransom Note Filename | README.yAGRTb.txt |
Contact Email | devman@cyberfear.com |
TOX Chat ID | Provided in the ransom note |
Detection Names | Win32:MalwareX-gen [Misc], Trojan.GenericKD.76496264, A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.OSW, HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic, Ransom:Win32/DragonForce.SB!MTB |
Symptoms of Infection | Files encrypted with .yAGRTb extension, ransom note present, desktop wallpaper changed, inability to open files |
Damage & Distribution | Encrypts files and exfiltrates data; distributed via phishing emails, malicious attachments, pirated software, and compromised websites |
Danger Level | High |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter |
In-Depth Analysis of DEVMAN/yAGRTb Ransomware
How Did I Get Infected?
DEVMAN/yAGRTb ransomware typically spreads through several common infection vectors:
- Phishing Emails: Malicious attachments or embedded links disguised as legitimate communications.
- Pirated Software: Installation of cracked or unauthorized software that carries hidden ransomware payloads.
- Malicious Websites: Visiting compromised websites that exploit vulnerabilities to install the malware silently.
- Infected USB Devices: Using removable drives already compromised with the ransomware installer.
What Does It Do?
Once active on the system, DEVMAN/yAGRTb ransomware initiates several destructive actions:
- Encrypts Files: Targets a wide range of file types, adding the
.yAGRTb
extension. - Drops a Ransom Note: Places
README.yAGRTb.txt
in affected folders with payment instructions. - Modifies Desktop Wallpaper: Changes it to display a ransom message prominently.
- Threatens Data Exposure: Claims stolen files will be leaked publicly if the ransom is not paid.
Should You Be Worried?
Yes. DEVMAN/yAGRTb poses a serious threat. It utilizes both file encryption and extortion through data leak threats, putting not only personal but potentially sensitive business data at risk. Even if you pay, there is no assurance the criminals will uphold their promise to decrypt or delete the data. The best course of action is immediate removal and system remediation.
Ransom Note Text
The ransom note left by the attackers (README.yAGRTb.txt
) reads as follows:
“All your files have been encrypted and stolen using a strong algorithm. To recover your data, contact us via TOX or email at devman@cyberfear.com. We will provide proof by decrypting one file. After payment, we will delete the stolen data and provide a decryption tool. Do not shut down or reset your system, as this may damage your files. If you refuse to pay, your data will be published online, and the decryption tool 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
- 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:
- 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.
- Press Windows + R, type
- 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:
- Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
- Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
- Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.
Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes
For Windows Users:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
- Right-click on the process and select End Task.
For Mac Users:
- Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
- Look for unusual processes.
- Select the process and click Force Quit.
Step 4: Delete Malicious Files
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
%temp%
, and hit Enter. - Delete all files in the Temp folder.
- Navigate to:
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
C:\Windows\System32
- Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.
For Mac Users:
- Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
- Type
~/Library/Application Support
and delete suspicious folders. - 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.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit
, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
- Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
- Right-click and select Delete.
For Mac Users:
- Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
- Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
- Navigate to
~/Library/Preferences
and remove malicious.plist
files.
Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
rstrui
, and hit Enter. - Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.
For Mac Users:
- Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
- Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
- 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
- Open the downloaded file (
SpyHunter-Installer.exe
). - Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
- Once installed, launch SpyHunter.
Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan
- Click on Start Scan Now.
- SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
- Wait for the scan to complete.
Step 4: Remove Detected Threats
- After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
- 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
DEVMAN/yAGRTb is a severe ransomware threat capable of inflicting major damage by locking files and threatening data leaks. It spreads through common social engineering and software piracy vectors, making users vulnerable through everyday actions. Quick response is vital. Use a trusted malware removal solution like SpyHunter to eliminate the ransomware and begin the recovery process.