Termite Ransomware: A Detailed Guide

Termite is a dangerous strain of ransomware that is part of the Babuk family. Discovered during malware analysis on VirusTotal, Termite has proven to be a significant threat to individuals and businesses alike. Like most ransomware, its primary objective is to encrypt files on an infected system, rendering them inaccessible without a decryption key. Victims are then coerced into paying a ransom, often in cryptocurrency, to retrieve their files.

How Termite Works

Once a system is infected with Termite, the ransomware begins encrypting files and appends the “.termite” extension to each file. For example, “1.jpg” becomes “1.jpg.termite,” and “2.png” turns into “2.png.termite.” The encrypted files become unusable without the decryption key held by the attackers.

In addition to the file encryption process, Termite also drops a ransom note, usually titled “How To Restore Your Files.txt.” The note contains instructions on how to pay the ransom and provides a contact email address for further communication.

Key Features of Termite Ransomware

• File Extension: .termite
• Ransom Note: “How To Restore Your Files.txt”
• Contact Information: rgagfhiuehrf@proton.me
• Ransom Demand: Payment is typically requested in cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin).
• Additional Malware: Termite may install other malicious software, including password-stealing trojans, along with the ransomware infection.
• Infection Methods: The ransomware is often spread via email attachments, malicious ads, cracked software, and torrent websites.

Symptoms of Infection

Victims of Termite ransomware will experience the following symptoms:

1. Encrypted Files: Files on the system become locked and inaccessible. The file extensions change to “.termite,” and attempts to open the files will fail.
2. Ransomware Note: A ransom note, titled “How To Restore Your Files.txt,” is displayed on the victim’s screen or dropped into the infected directories. The note contains instructions for paying the ransom and recovering the files.
3. System Slowdown: As with most ransomware, the system may become noticeably slower during encryption, as the malware encrypts files in the background.

The Ransom Note

Termite’s ransom note is straightforward, providing the victim with instructions for payment and recovery. Typically, the note directs the victim to a website (often with a support token), and the email address “rgagfhiuehrf@proton.me” is provided for further communication.

The ransomware also includes threats to leak data if the victim does not comply with the payment demands. However, paying the ransom does not guarantee the victim will receive the decryption key.

Termite’s text file (“How To Restore Your Files.txt“):

Visit – for addictional information.
Support token: –

Email: rgagfhiuehrf@proton.me

How to Remove Termite Ransomware

If you’ve fallen victim to Termite ransomware, it’s essential to act quickly to remove the malware and minimize damage. Follow this step-by-step guide for removal:

Step 1: Disconnect from the Network

To prevent further spread of the ransomware across your network or to cloud storage, disconnect the infected device from the internet and any local networks.

Step 2: Enter Safe Mode

1. Reboot your computer and press F8 (or the appropriate key for your device) during the boot process to access the boot options.
2. Select “Safe Mode with Networking” to enter a minimal environment where you can remove the malware.

Step 3: Remove Termite with SpyHunter

SpyHunter is a powerful tool designed to detect and remove malware like Termite. Follow these steps:

1. Download and Install SpyHunter.
2. Run a Full System Scan:
   • Open SpyHunter and click on “Scan” to perform a thorough scan of your system. The software will search for Termite and other potential threats.
   • Allow SpyHunter to complete the scan, which may take several minutes, depending on your system’s size and the number of files.
3. Review Detected Threats: Once the scan is complete, SpyHunter will display a list of detected threats. Look for any files or processes related to Termite (labeled as “Babuk” or “Crypto Virus”).
4. Remove Threats: Select all detected threats related to Termite and click “Fix” to remove the malware. SpyHunter will safely quarantine and delete the malicious files.
5. Reboot Your System: Once the removal process is complete, restart your system. Check to see if the system is functioning correctly and if the ransomware is no longer present.

Step 4: Restore Encrypted Files (Optional)

If you have backups of your encrypted files, now is the time to restore them. If no backups are available, you can attempt to recover the files with data recovery tools or wait for potential decryption tools that might be released by cybersecurity experts.

How to Prevent Termite and Other Ransomware Attacks

While ransomware like Termite can be devastating, there are steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim in the future:

1. Backup Your Files Regularly: Regularly back up important files to an external device or cloud storage. Ensure these backups are not connected to your main system at all times.
2. Install Antivirus Software: Use reliable antivirus software that offers real-time protection against ransomware. Programs like SpyHunter and others can prevent infections before they occur.
3. Update Software: Keep your operating system, browser, and all software up to date. Attackers often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to deliver ransomware.
4. Be Cautious with Email Attachments and Links: Avoid opening unsolicited email attachments or clicking on suspicious links. Verify the legitimacy of email senders before interacting with any links or files.
5. Enable File Extensions: In Windows, enable file extensions to easily identify malicious files that may appear disguised as safe files.
6. Use Multi-Factor Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) on sensitive accounts to add an extra layer of protection.

Conclusion

Termite ransomware, like its Babuk family counterparts, can cause severe damage to both personal and business data. However, by being proactive and taking immediate action to remove the infection, victims can limit the damage. Using tools like SpyHunter and following best practices for cybersecurity can help protect against future attacks. Always remember to back up your files and exercise caution when interacting with files and links from unknown sources.