M142 HIMARS is a variant of ransomware from the MedusaLocker family that encrypts files and demands a ransom for their decryption. Ransomware like M142 HIMARS can cause significant damage to both individuals and businesses by encrypting files, rendering them inaccessible, and demanding payment for their recovery. This article provides an in-depth guide to understanding this threat, including its characteristics, symptoms of infection, and a step-by-step guide to removal using SpyHunter. Additionally, we’ll discuss preventive measures to avoid future infections.
Overview of M142 HIMARS Ransomware
M142 HIMARS is a malicious file-encrypting program that belongs to the MedusaLocker ransomware family. Once this malware infects a system, it locks essential files and appends the “.M142HIMARS” extension to them. Victims are then presented with a ransom note, which threatens to release their sensitive data or sell it unless the ransom is paid.
The ransom note, displayed on the victim’s desktop, demands payment in cryptocurrency, typically Bitcoin. The attackers claim that the files can only be decrypted by them, using RSA and AES encryption, making it nearly impossible for victims to recover their data without the decryption key. The ransomware is highly destructive, causing both immediate and long-term damage to individuals and businesses.
Threat Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | M142 HIMARS Virus |
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker |
| Encrypted Files Extension | .M142HIMARS |
| Ransom Note File Name | READ_NOTE.html |
| Associated Email Addresses | pomocit07@kanzensei.top, pomocit07@surakshaguardian.com |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win64:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Tedy.670488), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win64/Filecoder.MedusaLocker.A), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.PaidMeme.m), Sophos (Troj/Medusa-Gen) |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted and have a “.M142HIMARS” extension, ransom note displayed on the desktop, inability to open files |
| Damage | Encryption of files, data loss, financial loss, possible further infections (e.g., password-stealing trojans) |
| Distribution Methods | Infected email attachments, torrent websites, malicious ads |
| Danger Level | High – leads to significant data loss and can result in financial damage if ransom is paid |
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Detailed Explanation of M142 HIMARS Ransomware
Once M142 HIMARS infiltrates a system, it begins its encryption process, renaming files and appending the “.M142HIMARS” extension to them. For example:
- “1.jpg” becomes “1.jpg.M142HIMARS”
- “2.png” becomes “2.png.M142HIMARS”
This renders the files unreadable unless decrypted by the cybercriminals behind the attack. In addition to this, M142 HIMARS changes the desktop wallpaper to display a ransom message, informing the victim that their important files have been encrypted using RSA and AES encryption algorithms. The attackers claim that no other tool on the internet can decrypt the files and warn the victim not to use third-party software, as doing so could permanently corrupt the files.
Text in the Ransom Note (READ_NOTE.html)
YOUR PERSONAL ID:
-
/!\ YOUR COMPANY NETWORK HAS BEEN PENETRATED /!\
All your important files have been encrypted!
Your files are safe! Only modified. (RSA+AES)
ANY ATTEMPT TO RESTORE YOUR FILES WITH THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE
WILL PERMANENTLY CORRUPT IT.
DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES.
DO NOT RENAME ENCRYPTED FILES.
No software available on internet can help you. We are the only ones able to
solve your problem.
We gathered highly confidential/personal data. These data are currently stored on
a private server. This server will be immediately destroyed after your payment.
If you decide to not pay, we will release your data to public or re-seller.
So you can expect your data to be publicly available in the near future..
We only seek money and our goal is not to damage your reputation or prevent
your business from running.
You will can send us 2-3 non-important files and we will decrypt it for free
to prove we are able to give your files back.
Contact us for price and get decryption software.
email:
pomocit07@kanzensei.top
pomocit07@surakshaguardian.com
* To contact us, create a new free email account on the site: protonmail.com
IF YOU DON'T CONTACT US WITHIN 72 HOURS, PRICE WILL BE HIGHER.
* Tor-chat to always be in touch:
-How to Remove M142 HIMARS Ransomware
Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet
To prevent the ransomware from communicating with its command and control server or spreading over the network, disconnect the infected system from the internet.
Step 2: Scan the System with SpyHunter
Using SpyHunter, a reputable anti-malware tool, you can scan the infected computer for any traces of M142 HIMARS. Follow these steps:
- Download and install SpyHunter from the button below.
- Open SpyHunter and initiate a full system scan.
- Let SpyHunter complete the scan and identify any threats.
- Follow SpyHunter’s instructions to remove the detected ransomware files.
Step 3: Restore Files (if Possible)
If you have backups of your encrypted files, restore them from a clean backup. If no backup exists, victims may need to resort to third-party decryption tools. However, there is no guarantee that these tools will work with M142 HIMARS, as ransomware decryption typically requires the attackers’ decryption keys.
Step 4: Prevent Future Infections
To avoid future infections, ensure that your system is protected with up-to-date antivirus software like SpyHunter. Regularly back up files to external or cloud storage and be cautious when downloading software or opening attachments.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Ransomware Infections
- Keep Software Up-to-Date: Regularly update the operating system and software to patch vulnerabilities that could be exploited by ransomware.
- Use Trusted Sources for Downloads: Only download software from official or reputable websites. Avoid pirated software, key generators, or other risky downloads that might carry ransomware.
- Be Wary of Phishing Emails: Do not open attachments or click on links in unsolicited emails, especially if they come from unknown or suspicious senders. Always verify the legitimacy of the email before interacting with it.
- Backup Your Files Regularly: Keep regular backups of important files on external drives or cloud services. This ensures that you can restore your data in case of a ransomware attack.
- Install Security Software: Use reliable security software, such as SpyHunter, to provide real-time protection against ransomware and other threats. Enable automatic scans for any malicious activity.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: For added protection, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your accounts, especially on sensitive ones like banking or email accounts, to minimize the impact of data breaches.
Conclusion
M142 HIMARS is a highly dangerous ransomware threat that can cause severe damage to both individuals and businesses. If you fall victim to this attack, it is essential to act quickly to remove the ransomware and attempt to restore your files. By using SpyHunter for removal and following the preventive measures outlined in this article, you can protect yourself from future ransomware attacks.
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