How to recover files after Pphg ransomware attack?

Question

Issue: How to recover files after Pphg ransomware attack?

Hello. I think I messed up badly. I lost my files to Pphg ransomware and all my important files now are locked with .pphg extension. I was cracking some software and the package included the malicious virus, supposedly. I don't know what can I do with these locked pieces myself. Can you help recover those files or the damage is permanent already?

Solved Answer

This ransomware infection is a serious threat that comes from the family of Djvu ransomware. The recent releases from the group of these attackers come weekly and the version of cryptovirus is affecting major parts of the machine. The threat not only locks files using encryption^[1] algorithm but also damages performance experience by altering and corrupting files on the system folders.

Pphg file virus spreads quickly and unnoticed, as you mentioned, the infiltration involves various malicious files and platforms like torrent services, email spam campaigns. The file-locking happens immediately and users receive the explanation via the _readme.txt file that includes instructions on further actions.

What is this ransomware?

Pphg ransomware virus is a file-locker threat that relies on encrypting common data, so ransom demands can be made. This cryptovirus is related to a well-known family that spreads quickly and is considered one if the most dangerous and active at the time. Previous versions in the family were decryptable, but files are no longer possible to recover easily.

Once files receive the .pphg marker and are no longer openable the infection is done with the main procedure, but there are additional processes and even programs that can be interfering with virus persistence and file recovery or removal procedures. Official decryption tool is not available, criminals also do not offer a legitimate solution. DO NOT pay for them and rely on alternate methods instead.

The ransom note provides [email protected] and [email protected] addresses for the connection with the attackers. It also states that decryption software and key price depends on whether victims will send an email to one of those addresses within or after 72 hours from the attack.

The number starts with $490, but then it doubles to $980. Purchasing the alleged decryption tool is not an option, but there are alternate methods and particular steps that are crucial when it comes to ransomware like this. Criminals might use additional methods to achieve their goal of getting money.^[2] Contacting them is never an option.

1. Remove the infection

The Pphg file virus is one of the most dangerous threats you should never ignore. It is not just limited to its primary function, malware infections can cause more problems and harm your machine if left unchecked by an anti-malware tool or security program. Detection rates^[3] determine that anti-malware programs can remove the active virus from the machine.

You need to get a reliable tool that will help remove any malicious files or other Trojans from within the affected system. It is better to use a separate application because the ones that function on the machine already can be affected and disabled by the alterations done to system files. Remember that removing this virus is important for the other steps, but this is not the decryption or file recovery solution.

2. Repair issues created by the virus damage and system corruption

An infection like this file-locker can alter the Windows registry database, damage vital bootup, and other sections, delete or corrupt DLL files, etc. You need to take care of these issues yourself.

• Get a program like FortectMac Washing Machine X9.
• Download the app, launch installation.
• Once the program is running, run the analysis.
  
• Check the results in the Summary.
• Fix problems that are detected.
• We recommend you purchase the license and fix them automatically.

3. Try Emsisoft's decryption tool

Previously this tool helped a lot of victims because offline IDs that this program is based on were primarily used by all the variants. Online keys are used now that is unique for each device, so you might not get to use this application properly. However, sometimes functions fail, so you can rely on this option.

• Download the app on official Emsisoft website.
• Once decrypt_STOPDjvu.exe shows up – click it.
• Follow instructions on the screen.
  
• The tool should automatically locate the affected folders.
• You can also do it by pressing Add folder at the bottom.
• Press Decrypt.
• There are particular results that can occur. Those determine if the decryption option is possible for your files or not.

4. Rely on data recovery options

Since official decryption tools are not developed for this version, you need alternate options for Pphg file virus-affected file recovery. Data Recovery Pro can be the solution here because some data is recoverable using the program.

• Get the program via the link provided.
• Install it fully n the machine.
• Follow the instructions.
• Select Everything or pick individual folders for recovery.
• Press Next.
  
  
• Enable Deep scan and pick which Disk you want to scan.
• Press Scan and wait for the process to end.
• You can now pick which folders/files to recover.
• Press Recover to repair your files.

Recover files and other system components automatically

To recover your files and other system components, you can use free guides by ugetfix.com experts. However, if you feel that you are not experienced enough to implement the whole recovery process yourself, we recommend using recovery solutions listed below. We have tested each of these programs and their effectiveness for you, so all you need to do is to let these tools do all the work.