STOP/Djvu Ransomware Variant Irjg Ransomware Encrypts Files and Demands a Ransom
Since its discovery in 2018, the STOP/Djvu ransomware family has released hundreds of new variants as it quickly became one of the world’s most prominent ransomware groups. Irjg Ransomware was uncovered by malware researchers as yet another strain from the family. It is referred to as Irjg-based on the .Irjg extension it uses to append infected files. The ransomware operates like its counterparts from the STOP/Djvu group and encrypts files before making a ransom demand.
Irjg Ransomware scans a victim’s computer to look for user-generated files. It then targets the files that may contain valuable information, including databases, spreadsheets, archives, pictures, and videos. Additionally, the hackers behind Irjg Ransomware deliver a ransom note that contains information regarding the ransomware and the hackers’ ransom demands.
The Ransom Demand Associated with Irjg Ransomware
Irjg Ransomware’s operators promise a decryption key to unlock the affected files in exchange for $980. However, they do offer a 50% discount if victims establish communication within 72 hours after encryption. The ransom note also instructs users to contact the criminals via the emails helpmanager@mail.ch or restoremanager@airmail.cc. Irjg Ransomware’s operators also offer to decrypt one file for free to display their ability to unlock all the affected files should the victim pay up.
Although cooperating with hackers seems like an easy way out of the situation, we strongly advise victims not to engage and employ a reputable malware remediation program to scan for and remove Irjg Ransomware. To prevent data loss in the case of another ransomware attack, please consider backing up your data on an external hard drive or virtual cloud storage.
