Sarcoma Group ransomware is a malicious file-encrypting malware designed to extort money from its victims. Once it infiltrates a system, it encrypts files and appends a random extension, such as .xp9Mq1ZD05
, to each filename (e.g., 1.jpg
becomes 1.jpg.xp9Mq1ZD05
). Victims are left unable to access their data and are presented with a ransom note titled “FAIL_STATE_NOTIFICATION.pdf”.
The ransomware’s message threatens to publish or sell the victim’s data on the dark web if no ransom is paid within seven days. Victims are instructed to use the Tor browser and Session messenger to initiate communication with the attackers.
Threat Summary
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Threat Name | Sarcoma Group Ransomware |
Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker |
Encrypted File Extension | Varies (e.g., .xp9Mq1ZD05 ) |
Ransom Note | FAIL_STATE_NOTIFICATION.pdf |
Detection Names | Avast: Win32:Dh-A [Heur], Combo Cleaner: Trojan.GenericKD.76175694, Emsisoft: Trojan.GenericKD.76175694 (B), Kaspersky: HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win64.Ymir.gen, Microsoft: Ransom:Win64/Filecoder!MTB |
Symptoms | Files renamed and cannot be opened, ransom note displayed, system slowdown |
Distribution Methods | Phishing emails, weak RDP access, software vulnerabilities, pirated tools, malicious ads |
Danger Level | Critical |
Stolen Data | Yes – Prior to encryption, sensitive files are exfiltrated |
Associated Email / Contact | Via Session messenger, Tor browser links (specific addresses vary) |
Free Decryptor Available? | No |
Ransom Note Text: FAIL_STATE_NOTIFICATION.pdf
pgsqlCopyEditYour company is in a critical situation.
File usage is temporarily unavailable.
Backups have been destroyed.
Databases have been exported.
Data from your storages is stolen and will be published on our website or sold on the darknet.
Sarcoma Group is the sole owner of the file restorer for your company.
Inform the boss of the company what happened ASAP.
If you want to purchase the restorer contact us, we will prepare a good price for you.
If we are not contacted by the company representative, the data will be automatically realized after 7 days.
Install Tor browser from https://torproject.org to access links.
Link to DLS -
Link to the chat -
Use Registration ID to add a new user to the chat.
COOPERATION
If you help us find this company's dirty laundry you will be rewarded.
You can tell your friends about us.
If you or your friend hates his boss, write to us and we will make him cry and the real hero will get a reward from us.
Install Session messenger on your phone
Scan the QR code through the app to add us.
How Does Sarcoma Group Infect Devices?
The Sarcoma Group ransomware is typically spread through a variety of deceptive and malicious methods, including:
- Phishing emails with infected attachments or links
- Exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software
- Misconfigured Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) connections
- Torrent downloads and pirated software
- Fake software updaters and malicious advertisements
- Technical support scams
Once executed, the ransomware spreads through the network, exfiltrates sensitive data, and then encrypts all accessible files using strong cryptographic algorithms.
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
Sarcoma Group ransomware is a severe threat that not only locks users out of their files but also threatens to leak sensitive information. This double-extortion tactic significantly raises the stakes for victims. While paying the ransom may seem like a quick solution, it is never guaranteed that criminals will follow through on their promises. The best defense is prevention, data backups, and immediate response with reliable cybersecurity tools.