Spring Ransomware: Understanding and Removal

Spring ransomware is a malicious program based on the CONTI ransomware family, designed to encrypt files and demand a ransom for decryption. This ransomware not only locks victims’ data but also appends filenames with a distinctive “.FIND_EXPLAIN.TXT.spring” extension. Following encryption, the malware drops a ransom note titled “EXPLAIN.txt,” instructing victims on how to contact the attackers and make payment.

Summary of Spring Ransomware

Feature	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files Locker
Encrypted Files Extension	.FIND_EXPLAIN.TXT.spring
Ransom Note File Name	EXPLAIN.txt
Cyber Criminal Contact	TOX: 3C22ACED588A14E262A7CE3B1A967165F11E8E0542AC9EAA7B8734D630733A1358AAA7D2029C, Jonson.Tifoni05634@zohomail.com
Detection Names	Variants may appear under different detection names in antivirus databases
Symptoms	Cannot open files, files renamed with “.FIND_EXPLAIN.TXT.spring” extension, ransom note displayed
Damage	Data encryption, possible additional malware infections, ransom demands
Distribution Methods	Phishing emails, malicious attachments, torrent sites, fake software updates, trojans
Danger Level	High

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Behavior of Spring Ransomware

Upon infiltration, Spring ransomware scans the infected system to identify files for encryption. It targets a wide variety of file types, ensuring maximum disruption for the victim. Encrypted files are appended with the ".FIND_EXPLAIN.TXT.spring" extension. For example, a file named "document.pdf" will appear as "document.pdf.FIND_EXPLAIN.TXT.spring" after encryption.

The ransomware also creates a text file titled "EXPLAIN.txt" as a ransom note. This note warns victims not to rename the encrypted files or use third-party recovery tools, claiming these actions could result in permanent data loss. The note further instructs victims to send three encrypted files (up to 5MB in size) to the attackers for decryption verification and provides contact details for making the payment.

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Ransom Note Overview

The content of the ransom note, "EXPLAIN.txt," includes:

• Confirmation that the victim’s data has been encrypted and downloaded.
• Instructions to contact the attackers via TOX or email.
• A warning against using third-party decryption tools or recovery services.
• Steps to decrypt a few files for free as proof.

The attackers aim to instill fear and urgency in victims, making them less likely to explore alternative solutions.

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Distribution Methods

Spring ransomware is primarily spread through:

1. Phishing Emails: Emails with malicious attachments or links that execute the ransomware upon interaction.
2. Trojans: Malware that downloads and installs the ransomware in the background.
3. Fake Software Updates: Deceptive updates for legitimate programs that carry malicious payloads.
4. Torrent Websites: Downloading pirated or unverified content from torrent platforms.
5. Drive-by Downloads: Unintentional downloads initiated by visiting compromised or malicious websites.
6. Removable Storage Devices: Self-propagation via external drives connected to infected systems.

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Removal Guide

To remove Spring ransomware and prevent further file encryption, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode

1. Restart your computer.
2. Press F8 or the corresponding key during boot-up to access Advanced Boot Options.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking.

Step 2: Install SpyHunter

1. Download SpyHunter.
2. Install the program and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Perform a full system scan to detect and eliminate Spring ransomware and other malicious files.

Step 3: Remove Detected Threats

1. Once the scan is complete, review the detected threats.
2. Select all identified items related to Spring ransomware and click Remove.

Step 4: Restore Your Files

If you have backups stored in a secure location, use them to restore your files. Ensure that the system is completely clean before reintroducing backed-up data.

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Preventive Measures

To avoid ransomware infections like Spring in the future, follow these tips:

1. Regular Backups: Maintain multiple backups of important data on external drives or cloud storage.
2. Use Antivirus Software: Install reputable security software and keep it updated.
3. Avoid Suspicious Emails: Do not open email attachments or links from unknown sources.
4. Download Software Safely: Only download software from trusted sources.
5. Update Software Regularly: Keep your operating system and applications up to date to patch security vulnerabilities.
6. Disable Macros: Prevent automatic execution of macros in documents.
7. Restrict Admin Privileges: Use non-administrative accounts for daily tasks to limit the scope of malware execution.