.TXTME Ransomware

TXTME ransomware is a new and highly aggressive variant of the Dharma ransomware family. This file-locking malware encrypts critical files, adds a unique ID and attacker email to filenames, and demands a ransom in Bitcoin for decryption. It is especially dangerous because it can disable key system defenses and erase recovery options, leaving victims helpless.

---

Threat Overview

TXTME ransomware targets Windows-based systems. Once it infects a device, it encrypts user data and appends filenames with a unique ID, an email address, and the “.TXTME” extension. For example, “photo.jpg” might be renamed to “photo.jpg.id-9ECFA84E.[ownercall@tuta.io].TXTME”. A ransom note titled “TXTME.txt” is dropped, along with a pop-up message demanding payment for file recovery.

---

Threat Details

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware (Dharma family)
Encrypted File Extension	.id-[unique ID].[ownercall@tuta.io].TXTME
Ransom Note File Name	TXTME.txt
Associated Email Addresses	ownercall@tuta.io, ownercall@mailum.com
Detection Names	Win32:MalwareX-gen [Ransom], Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E, A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.Crysis.PTrojan-Ransom.Win32.Crusis.to, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Crusis.to, Ransom:Win32/Wadhrama!pz
Symptoms of Infection	– Files are renamed with the .TXTME extension – “TXTME.txt” ransom note appears – Pop-up message displayed – System firewall may be disabled – Volume Shadow Copies deleted
Damage	– Permanent file encryption – Data loss without decryption key – Removal of recovery options – System vulnerability to further attacks
Distribution Methods	– Malicious email attachments – Infected software cracks or keygens – Fake tech support scams – Torrents and warez sites – Malvertising
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

---

In-Depth Threat Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

TXTME ransomware usually spreads through:

• Malicious email attachments with macros or infected executables
• Pirated or cracked software installers
• Deceptive online ads leading to malicious downloads
• Torrent downloads of fake or bundled software
• Fake tech support websites and remote access scams

Once executed, the ransomware encrypts files and changes their names to include the “.TXTME” extension along with a unique ID and contact email. System settings may also be changed to prevent recovery.

---

What Does It Do?

Upon execution, TXTME ransomware:

• Encrypts personal and business files using strong encryption
• Renames files with a unique ID and “.TXTME” extension
• Drops a ransom note (“TXTME.txt”) and displays an urgent pop-up message
• Disables system firewall to increase vulnerability
• Deletes Volume Shadow Copies to block system restore
• Ensures persistence by modifying Windows registry

---

Should You Be Worried?

Absolutely. TXTME ransomware poses a critical threat to personal data, sensitive files, and business operations. Once your files are encrypted, the only way to restore them is through backups or decryption—neither of which are possible if you’re unprepared. Paying the ransom is highly discouraged, as it provides no guarantee of file recovery and may support further criminal activity. Prompt removal is essential using a professional tool such as SpyHunter.

---

Ransom Note Text

All your files have been encrypted!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
If you want to restore them, write to the mail: ownercall@tuta.io YOUR ID –
If you have not answered by mail within 12 hours, write to us by another mail: ownercall@mailum.com
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 3 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 3Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases, backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.

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

TXTME ransomware is a highly dangerous malware that can leave users locked out of their own data and with no easy way to recover. By encrypting files, disabling recovery tools, and demanding payment in Bitcoin, this ransomware forces victims into a corner. However, paying the ransom is not a solution. Removing the infection with a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter is the best first step in securing your system and preventing further damage.