VXUG Ransomware: How to Remove It and Recover Your Files

VXUG Ransomware is a destructive malware strain that encrypts files on infected systems, demanding a ransom in exchange for decryption. It primarily spreads via malicious email attachments, social media links, and software bundling. Once inside, it renames files using a unique pattern and drops a ransom note titled “how_to_decrypt.hta”, instructing victims to contact the attackers via staff@vx-underground.org.

However, paying the ransom is not recommended as it does not guarantee file recovery and may lead to further extortion. This guide will provide an in-depth look at VXUG Ransomware, its symptoms, removal instructions, and recovery options.

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VXUG Ransomware Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Cryptovirus
File Extension	Random extension with the email “staff@vx-underground.org” appended
Ransom Note	how_to_decrypt.hta
Associated Email	staff@vx-underground.org
Detection Names	Vxug.Cryptovirus, Trojan.Ransom.VXUG, Chaos Ransomware
Symptoms	Files encrypted with modified extensions, ransom note dropped, inability to open affected files
Damage	Loss of personal and business files, potential data theft, registry modifications
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, phishing links, software bundling, social media links
Danger Level	High

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VXUG Ransomware – How It Works

Infection Process

VXUG ransomware spreads through multiple infection vectors:

• Spam Emails: The malware is often hidden inside email attachments with malicious macros.
• Social Media Links: Attackers disguise malware links as legitimate downloads.
• Bundled Software: Some free software installs VXUG ransomware without user consent.
• Malicious Scripts: Attackers use exploit kits to infect users through compromised websites.

Encryption Process

Once VXUG infiltrates a system, it:

1. Encrypts various file types including documents, images, videos, and backups.
2. Renames files with a random extension and email address.
3. Drops a ransom note demanding payment for decryption.
4. Deletes Shadow Volume Copies to prevent easy recovery.
5. Modifies Windows Registry to maintain persistence.

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VXUG Ransom Note – What It Says

When VXUG ransomware encrypts a system, it displays the following ransom note:

ENCRYPTED BY VXUG

What happened?
All your documents, databases, backups, and other critical files were encrypted by vx-underground.
Our software used the AES cryptographic algorithm (you can find related information in Wikipedia).

It happened because of security problems on your server, and you cannot use any of these files anymore. The only way to recover your data is to buy a decryption key from us.

To do this, please send your unique ID to the contacts below.
E-mail: staff@vx-underground.org
Unique ID: [F27195A8-B7BFB093]

Right after payment, we will send you a specific decoding software that will decrypt all of your files. If you have not received the response within 24 hours, please contact us on twitter @vxunderground.

During a short period, you can buy a decryption key with a 50% discount
4 days 23:48:49
The price depends on how soon you will contact us.

All your files will be deleted permanently in: 6 days 23:48:49

Attention!
! Do not try to recover files yourself. this process can damage your data and recovery will become impossible.
! Do not waste time trying to find the solution on the Internet. The longer you wait, the higher will become the decryption key price.
! Do not contact any intermediaries. They will buy the key from us and sell it to you at a higher price.

What guarantees do you have?
Before payment, we can decrypt three files for free. The total file size should be less than 5MB (before archiving), and the files should not contain any important information (databases, backups, large tables, etc.)

Do NOT pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that hackers will provide a decryption key.

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How to Remove VXUG Ransomware from Your PC

Step 1: Enter Safe Mode

1. Restart your PC.
2. Press F8 or Shift + F8 before Windows loads.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking.

Step 2: Terminate Malicious Processes

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown EXE files).
3. Right-click and select End Task.

Step 3: Delete VXUG Ransomware Files

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to:
   • %AppData%
   • %LocalAppData%
   • %ProgramData%
   • %Temp%
2. Delete any recent suspicious files.

Step 4: Remove VXUG Registry Entries

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
3. Look for VXUG-related entries and delete them.

Step 5: Scan for Malware with SpyHunter

1. Download and install SpyHunter.
2. Run a full system scan.
3. Quarantine and remove detected malware.

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How to Recover Encrypted Files

Even if you remove VXUG, your files remain encrypted. Try these recovery methods:

Restore from Backups

• If you have cloud backups (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox), restore your files.

Use Shadow Volume Copies

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
• Type: vssadmin.exe list shadows
• If Shadow Copies exist, restore files using:

  vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet

Try Third-Party Decryption Tools

• Check websites like NoMoreRansom.org for possible decryptors.

Data Recovery Software

• Use Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery to recover lost files.

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How to Prevent Future Ransomware Attacks

1. Backup Data Regularly – Keep offline and cloud backups.
2. Avoid Suspicious Emails – Don’t open attachments from unknown senders.
3. Use Security Software – Install SpyHunter or other reputable anti-malware tools.
4. Update Software and OS – Patch security vulnerabilities.
5. Disable Macros in Office Documents – Prevent malicious scripts.
6. Use a Firewall – Block unauthorized network access.

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Conclusion

VXUG Ransomware is a serious cyber threat that encrypts files and demands payment for their release. However, victims should never pay the ransom as it only funds further attacks. Instead, follow the removal steps, use SpyHunter for a complete scan, and attempt file recovery with the methods provided.

By implementing strong cybersecurity practices, such as regular backups and cautious online behavior, users can minimize the risk of falling victim to ransomware in the future.