Data is a type of ransomware that encrypts files and appends the “.data3” extension to them. Victims discover that their files have been renamed to include an email address, such as 1.jpg becoming 1.jpg.[data.revival@onionmail.org].data3. This ransomware also modifies the desktop wallpaper and drops a ransom note named “#Read-for-recovery.txt” that instructs victims to contact the attackers.
Data ransomware belongs to the Proton ransomware family and is known for aggressive file encryption, making it nearly impossible for victims to recover their files without the attackers’ decryption tool.
How Data Ransomware Works
Once Data ransomware infects a system, it:
- Scans the device for files and encrypts them.
- Renames files with the attacker’s email address and the “.data3” extension.
- Drops a ransom note instructing victims to contact the cybercriminals via data.revival@onionmail.org.
- Modifies the desktop wallpaper to reinforce the ransom demand.
- May introduce additional malware, such as password-stealing trojans.
Data Ransom Note Overview
The #Read-for-recovery.txt file contains the following message:
Emails to contact:
Instructions:
- Send a message to both email addresses.
- Check your spam folder for replies.
- If no response is received within 24 hours, create a new email (such as Gmail or Outlook) and resend the message.
Data Ransomware Wallpaper Message
Email us for recovery:
data.revival@onionmail.org
In case of no answer, send to this email:
data.revival@onionmail.org
Your unqiue ID: –
How Does Data Ransomware Infect Computers?
Cybercriminals distribute Data ransomware through various attack methods, including:
- Email Phishing: Malicious email attachments (e.g., fake invoices or delivery notifications).
- Pirated Software: Illegal downloads containing ransomware-infected executables.
- Malicious Ads (Malvertising): Fraudulent ads that exploit browser vulnerabilities.
- Compromised Websites: Redirecting users to exploit kits that install ransomware.
- Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Networks: Torrents and file-sharing platforms distributing infected files.
- Software Vulnerabilities: Exploiting outdated software to deploy malware.
Threat Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Data Ransomware |
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker |
| Encrypted File Extension | .data3 |
| Ransom Note File | #Read-for-recovery.txt |
| Cybercriminal Contact | data.revival@onionmail.org |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win64\:RansomX-gen), ESET-NOD32 (Filecoder.Proton.A), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic), Microsoft (Ransom\:Win64/Akira!rfn) |
| Symptoms | Cannot open files, changed file extensions, ransom note displayed, desktop wallpaper modified |
| Family | Proton Ransomware |
| Distribution Methods | Phishing emails, torrents, malvertising, fake updates |
| Damage | Files encrypted, possible installation of additional malware |
How to Remove Data Ransomware and Restore Files
Step 1: Isolate the Infected Device
To prevent further damage, immediately disconnect the affected system from:
- The internet (disable Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable)
- Any connected external drives (USB, HDD, SSD)
- The local network (to prevent spreading)
Step 2: Use Safe Mode to Remove Data Ransomware
- Restart your computer and enter Safe Mode with Networking:
- Windows 10/11: Press Shift + Restart, then go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart and select Safe Mode with Networking.
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), look for suspicious processes (e.g., unusual names), right-click, and select End Task.
- Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a Program, and remove suspicious programs installed around the time of infection.
Step 3: Scan Your Computer with SpyHunter
Manually removing ransomware can be risky, as some remnants may persist. The safest method is to scan your computer with SpyHunter Anti-Malware, which detects and removes ransomware effectively.
Download SpyHunter Now to eliminate Data ransomware from your system.
Step 4: Restore Files from Backups
If you have backup copies, restore your files by:
- Using System Restore (if enabled before infection).
- Accessing files from an external hard drive or cloud backup (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox).
Step 5: Try Alternative Decryption Methods
Currently, no free decryptor is available for Data ransomware. However, you can:
- Check the No More Ransom project (https://www.nomoreransom.org/).
- Use file recovery tools like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery to retrieve deleted versions of files.
How to Protect Yourself from Ransomware
1. Regularly Backup Important Data
- Store backups offline (external hard drives, USBs, or air-gapped systems).
- Use cloud backups with version history enabled.
2. Avoid Suspicious Links and Attachments
- Never open emails from unknown senders.
- Verify attachments before downloading.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious ads or pop-ups.
3. Keep Your System Updated
- Install Windows updates and security patches regularly.
- Update installed software and remove unused applications.
4. Use Strong Security Software
- Install SpyHunter Anti-Malware to detect and block ransomware before it encrypts files.
- Enable Windows Defender or another real-time security program.
5. Disable Macros and Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
- Disable macros in Microsoft Office.
- Turn off RDP if not needed (to prevent remote attacks).
Conclusion
Data ransomware is a dangerous malware variant from the Proton family that encrypts files and demands payment for decryption. Victims should never pay the ransom as cybercriminals may not provide the decryption tool.
Instead, remove Data ransomware using SpyHunter, restore files from backups, and strengthen cybersecurity practices to prevent future infections.
