• To answer your other question (which has mysteriously vanished), you must use the Episode 13.2 installer to install the IRO client. Posted 2011-04-17 21:08 #21.
• Ignore callers who claim your Microsoft Windows license has expired. (FILE PHOTO/MORNING CALL) The scoundrels who pose as Microsoft and call alleging that there are problems with your computer are.

1. Your Using Outdated Licence File Ragnarok Online

RAGNAROK (.thor) ransomware removal instructions

Ragnarok copies its file(s) to your hard disk. File name typical to Ragnarok is (.). Then it runs itself and creates new startup key in registry with name Ragnarok and value (.). If you will look into running processes list you will see some extra process with name like (.) or any random name that uses decent amount of your CPU.

What is RAGNAROK (.thor)?

RAGNAROK (.thor) is a new variant of Ragnarok ransomware. Systems infected with this malware experience data encryption and users receive ransom demands for decryption. During the encryption process, all affected files are appended with a random character string and the '.thor' extension. For example, a file originally named '1.jpg' would appear as something similar to '1.jpg.E6FBF.thor' following encryption. After this process is complete, ransom messages within '!!Read_me_How_To_Recover_My_Files.html' files are dropped into compromised folders.

The ransom-demand message ('!!Read_me_How_To_Recover_My_Files.html') informs victims that their data has been encrypted with the RSA-4096 and AES cryptographic algorithms. To recover their files, users are instructed that they must purchase decryption tools from the cyber criminals behind the infection. The cost of the recovery tools is stated to be US$980 (USD), however, should victims establish contact with the criminals (via email) within the first 72 hours, the ransom can be reduced by 50% (US$490). Prior to paying, decryption can be tested by attaching one encrypted file (containing no valuable information) to the emails. Furthermore, a portion of users' private and/or company files have been exfiltrated from the compromised device. File format examples include doc, xls, pdf, jpg, mdf, sql, pst, and so on. Should victims fail to meet the ransom demands within a week, the stolen data will be posted on the criminals' blog/website. Unfortunately, in most cases of ransomware infections, decryption is impossible without involvement of the cyber criminals responsible, unless in rare cases the malicious program is still in development and/or has significant flaws. Whatever the case, you are strongly advised against paying ransoms. Despite paying, victims do not receive the promised decryption tools, experience financial loss, and their data remains encrypted. To prevent RAGNAROK (.thor) ransomware from further encryption, it must be removed from the operating system, however, removal will not restore already affected files. The only solution is to recover them from a backup, if one was made prior to the infection and was stored in a different location.

Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data:

JB78, FG69, Artemis and Zybvqxefmh are some examples of other ransomware-type programs. They operate by encrypting data and demanding payment for decryption tools/software. There are two main differences between these programs/infections: the cryptographic algorithms they use (symmetric or asymmetric) and the ransom size. Digital currencies (e.g. cryptocurrencies, pre-paid vouchers, etc.) are often used for the ransoms, since these transactions are difficult/impossible to trace. To avoid permanent data loss, you are strongly advised to keep backups on remote servers and/or unplugged storage devices (ideally, in multiple separate locations).

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Typically, ransomware and other malware is distributed through malspam campaigns, fake software updating tools, untrusted download sources, unofficial (third party) software activation tools and Trojans. Users infect computers with malware when they open malicious files that they receive via email. Typically, these emails contain malicious attachments or websites designed to download dangerous files. In most cases, cyber criminals send emails that have Microsoft Office documents, archive files (ZIP, RAR), PDF documents, JavaScript files, and executable files such as .exe attached to them. Fake software updating tools do not update or fix any installed software - they simply install malware instead. They can also infect systems by exploiting bugs/flaws of outdated software. Examples of dubious file/software download channels are Peer-to-Peer networks such as torrent clients, eMule, various free file hosting sites and freeware download websites. Users infect computers through these channels when they download and execute malicious files, which are often disguised as legitimate and regular. Software 'cracking' tools supposedly activate licensed software free of charge (illegally), however, rather than activating anything they often install malicious programs. Trojans are rogue programs that, if installed, install other malware (causing chain infections).

How to protect yourself from ransomware infections

Do not trust irrelevant emails that have files attached (or contain website links) and are received from unknown, suspicious addresses. Software should not be downloaded or installed through third party downloaders, installers, unofficial pages or other similar sources/tools. Use only official websites and direct links. Installed software should never be updated or activated with third party, unofficial tools, since they can install malware. Furthermore, it is illegal to use third party tools to activate licensed software. The only legitimate way to update and activate software is to use tools and functions that are provided by the official developers. Regularly scan your computer with reputable antivirus or anti-spyware software - keep this software up to date. If your computer is already infected with RAGNAROK (.thor), we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Text presented in RAGNAROK (.thor) ransomware ransom message ('!!Read_me_How_To_Recover_My_Files.html'):

#ALL YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED AND STOLEN BY RAGNAROK
Dear Sir

Your files are encrypted with RSA4096 and AES encryption algorithm.
But don't worry, you can return all your files!! follow the instructions to recover your files

Cooperate with us and get the decrypter program as soon as possible will be your best solution.
Only our software can decrypt all your encrypted files.

What guarantees you have?
We take our reputation seriously. We reject any form of deception
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain any valuable information.
Basic price for per computer is $980.Discount 50% available if you contact us in 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
When hiring third-party negotiators or recovery companies. listen to what they tell you. try to think.
Are they really interested in solving your problems or are they just thinking about their profit and ambitions?

By the way.We have stolen lots of your company and your private data which includes doc,xls,pdf,jpg,mdf,sql,pst...
Here we upload sample files of your company and your private data on our blog :
hxxp://6ss5vvdhmnhfux6xoerulzuu73ur52v6hcmvaiphohbtgvw2nnzflnid.onion
We promise that if you don't pay within a week, we will package and publish all of your company and your data on our website.
We also promise we can decrypt all of your data and delete all your files on internet after your payment.
Such leaks of information lead to losses for the company. fines and lawsuits. And don't forget that information can fall into the hands of competitors!
For us this is just business and to prove to you our seriousness.

Our e-mail:
ragnar0k@tutanota.com

Reserve e-mail:
ragnarok_recover@secmail.pro
r19nar0k@airmail.cc

Device ID:
-

Screenshot of RAGNAROK (.thor) ransomware blog/website (to which the stolen data is posted):

Screenshot of files encrypted by RAGNAROK (.thor) ('.thor' extension):

RAGNAROK (.thor) ransomware removal:

Instant automatic malware removal:Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo CleanerBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available.

Quick menu:

• STEP 1. Reporting ransomware to authorities.
• STEP 2. Isolating the infected device.
• STEP 3. Identifying the ransomware infection.
• STEP 4. Searching for ransomware decryption tools.
• STEP 5. Restoring files with data recovery tools.
• STEP 6. Creating data backups.

Reporting ransomware to authorities:

If you are a victim of a ransomware attack we recommend reporting this incident to authorities. By providing information to law enforcement agencies you will help track cybercrime and potentially assist in the prosecution of the attackers. Here's a list of authorities where you should report a ransomware attack. For the complete list of local cybersecurity centers and information on why you should report ransomware attacks, read this article.

List of local authorities where ransomware attacks should be reported (choose one depending on your residence address):

• USA - Internet Crime Complaint Centre IC3
• United Kingdom - Action Fraud
• Spain - Policía Nacional
• France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
• Germany - Polizei
• Italy - Polizia di Stato
• The Netherlands - Politie
• Poland - Policja
• Portugal - Polícia Judiciária

Isolating the infected device:

Some ransomware-type infections are designed to encrypt files within external storage devices, infect them, and even spread throughout the entire local network. For this reason, it is very important to isolate the infected device (computer) as soon as possible.

Step 1: Disconnect from the internet.

The easiest way to disconnect a computer from the internet is to unplug the Ethernet cable from the motherboard, however, some devices are connected via a wireless network and for some users (especially those who are not particularly tech-savvy), disconnecting cables may seem troublesome. Therefore, you can also disconnect the system manually via Control Panel:

Navigate to the 'Control Panel', click the search bar in the upper-right corner of the screen, enter 'Network and Sharing Center' and select search result:

Click the 'Change adapter settings' option in the upper-left corner of the window:

Right-click on each connection point and select 'Disable'. Once disabled, the system will no longer be connected to the internet. To re-enable the connection points, simply right-click again and select 'Enable'.

Step 2: Unplug all storage devices.

As mentioned above, ransomware might encrypt data and infiltrate all storage devices that are connected to the computer. For this reason, all external storage devices (flash drives, portable hard drives, etc.) should be disconnected immediately, however, we strongly advise you to eject each device before disconnecting to prevent data corruption:

Navigate to 'My Computer', right-click on each connected device, and select 'Eject':

Step 3: Log-out of cloud storage accounts.

Some ransomware-type might be able to hijack software that handles data stored within 'the Cloud'. Therefore, the data could be corrupted/encrypted. For this reason, you should log-out of all cloud storage accounts within browsers and other related software. You should also consider temporarily uninstalling the cloud-management software until the infection is completely removed.

Identify the ransomware infection:

To properly handle an infection, one must first identify it. Some ransomware infections use ransom-demand messages as an introduction (see the WALDO ransomware text file below).

This, however, is rare. In most cases, ransomware infections deliver more direct messages simply stating that data is encrypted and that victims must pay some sort of ransom. Note that ransomware-type infections typically generate messages with different file names (for example, '_readme.txt', 'READ-ME.txt', 'DECRYPTION_INSTRUCTIONS.txt', 'DECRYPT_FILES.html', etc.). Therefore, using the name of a ransom message may seem like a good way to identify the infection. The problem is that most of these names are generic and some infections use the same names, even though the delivered messages are different and the infections themselves are unrelated. Therefore, using the message filename alone can be ineffective and even lead to permanent data loss (for example, by attempting to decrypt data using tools designed for different ransomware infections, users are likely to end up permanently damaging files and decryption will no longer be possible even with the correct tool).

Another way to identify a ransomware infection is to check the file extension, which is appended to each encrypted file. Ransomware infections are often named by the extensions they append (see files encrypted by Qewe ransomware below).

This method is only effective, however, when the appended extension is unique - many ransomware infections append a generic extension (for example, '.encrypted', '.enc', '.crypted', '.locked', etc.). In these cases, identifying ransomware by its appended extension becomes impossible.

One of the easiest and quickest ways to identify a ransomware infection is to use the ID Ransomware website. This service supports most existing ransomware infections. Victims simply upload a ransom message and/or one encrypted file (we advise you to upload both if possible).

The ransomware will be identified within seconds and you will be provided with various details, such as the name of the malware family to which the infection belongs, whether it is decryptable, and so on.

Example 1 (Qewe [Stop/Djvu] ransomware):

Example 2 (.iso [Phobos] ransomware):

If your data happens to be encrypted by ransomware that is not supported by ID Ransomware, you can always try searching the internet by using certain keywords (for example, a ransom message title, file extension, provided contact emails, crypto wallet addresses, etc.).

Search for ransomware decryption tools:

Encryption algorithms used by most ransomware-type infections are extremely sophisticated and, if the encryption is performed properly, only the developer is capable of restoring data. This is because decryption requires a specific key, which is generated during the encryption. Restoring data without the key is impossible. In most cases, cybercriminals store keys on a remote server, rather than using the infected machine as a host. Dharma (CrySis), Phobos, and other families of high-end ransomware infections are virtually flawless, and thus restoring data encrypted without the developers' involvement is simply impossible. Despite this, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain a number of flaws (for example, the use of identical encryption/decryption keys for each victim, keys stored locally, etc.). Therefore, always check for available decryption tools for any ransomware that infiltrates your computer.

Finding the correct decryption tool on the internet can be very frustrating. For this reason, we recommend that you use the No More Ransom Project and this is where identifying the ransomware infection is useful. The No More Ransom Project website contains a 'Decryption Tools' section with a search bar. Enter the name of the identified ransomware, and all available decryptors (if there are any) will be listed.

Restore files with data recovery tools:

Depending on the situation (quality of ransomware infection, type of encryption algorithm used, etc.), restoring data with certain third-party tools might be possible. Therefore, we advise you to use the Recuva tool developed by CCleaner. This tool supports over a thousand data types (graphics, video, audio, documents, etc.) and it is very intuitive (little knowledge is necessary to recover data). In addition, the recovery feature is completely free.

Step 1: Perform a scan.

Run the Recuva application and follow the wizard. You will be prompted with several windows allowing you to choose what file types to look for, which locations should be scanned, etc. All you need to do is select the options you're looking for and start the scan. We advise you to enable the 'Deep Scan' before starting, otherwise, the application's scanning capabilities will be restricted.

Wait for Recuva to complete the scan. The scanning duration depends on the volume of files (both in quantity and size) that you are scanning (for example, several hundred gigabytes could take over an hour to scan). Therefore, be patient during the scanning process. We also advise against modifying or deleting existing files, since this might interfere with the scan. If you add additional data (for example, downloading files/content) while scanning, this will prolong the process:

Step 2: Recover data.

Once the process is complete, select the folders/files you wish to restore and simply click 'Recover'. Note that some free space on your storage drive is necessary to restore data:

Create data backups:

Proper file management and creating backups is essential for data security. Therefore, always be very careful and think ahead.

Partition management: We recommend that you store your data in multiple partitions and avoid storing important files within the partition that contains the entire operating system. If you fall into a situation whereby you cannot boot the system and are forced to format the disk on which the operating system is installed (in most cases, this is where malware infections hide), you will lose all data stored within that drive. This is the advantage of having multiple partitions: if you have the entire storage device assigned to a single partition, you will be forced to delete everything, however, creating multiple partitions and allocating the data properly allows you to prevent such problems. You can easily format a single partition without affecting the others - therefore, one will be cleaned and the others will remain untouched, and your data will be saved. Managing partitions is quite simple and you can find all the necessary information on Microsoft's documentation web page.

Data backups: One of the most reliable backup methods is to use an external storage device and keep it unplugged. Copy your data to an external hard drive, flash (thumb) drive, SSD, HDD, or any other storage device, unplug it and store it in a dry place away from the sun and extreme temperatures. This method is, however, quite inefficient, since data backups and updates need to be made regularly. You can also use a cloud service or remote server. Here, an internet connection is required and there is always the chance of a security breach, although it's a really rare occasion.

We recommend using Microsoft OneDrive for backing up your files. OneDrive lets you store your personal files and data in the cloud, sync files across computers and mobile devices, allowing you to access and edit your files from all of your Windows devices. OneDrive lets you save, share and preview files, access download history, move, delete, and rename files, as well as create new folders, and much more.

You can back up your most important folders and files on your PC (your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders). Some of OneDrive’s more notable features include file versioning, which keeps older versions of files for up to 30 days. OneDrive features a recycling bin in which all of your deleted files are stored for a limited time. Deleted files are not counted as part of the user’s allocation.

The service is built using HTML5 technologies and allows you to upload files up to 300 MB via drag and drop into the web browser or up to 10 GB via the OneDrive desktop application. With OneDrive, you can download entire folders as a single ZIP file with up to 10,000 files, although it can’t exceed 15 GB per single download.

OneDrive comes with 5 GB of free storage out of the box, with an additional 100 GB, 1 TB, and 6 TB storage options available for a subscription-based fee. You can get one of these storage plans by either purchasing additional storage separately or with Office 365 subscription.

Creating a data backup:

The backup process is the same for all file types and folders. Here’s how you can back up your files using Microsoft OneDrive

Step 1: Choose the files/folders you want to backup.

Click the OneDrive cloud icon to open the OneDrive menu. While in this menu, you can customize your file backup settings.

Click Help & Settings and then select Settings from the drop-down menu.

Go to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.

In this menu, you can choose to backup the Desktop and all of the files on it, and Documents and Pictures folders, again, with all of the files in them. Click Start backup.

Now, when you add a file or folder in the Desktop and Documents and Pictures folders, they will be automatically backed up on OneDrive.

To add folders and files, not in the locations shown above, you have to add them manually.

Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of the folder/file you want to backup. Select the item, right-click it, and click Copy.

Then, navigate to OneDrive, right-click anywhere in the window and click Paste. Alternatively, you can just drag and drop a file into OneDrive. OneDrive will automatically create a backup of the folder/file.

All of the files added to the OneDrive folder are backed up in the cloud automatically. The green circle with the checkmark in it indicates that the file is available both locally and on OneDrive and that the file version is the same on both. The blue cloud icon indicates that the file has not been synced and is available only on OneDrive. The sync icon indicates that the file is currently syncing.

To access files only located on OneDrive online, go to the Help & Settings drop-down menu and select View online.

Step 2: Restore corrupted files.

OneDrive makes sure that the files stay in sync, so the version of the file on the computer is the same version on the cloud. However, if ransomware has encrypted your files, you can take advantage of OneDrive’s Version history feature that will allow you to restore the file versions prior to encryption.

Microsoft 365 has a ransomware detection feature that notifies you when your OneDrive files have been attacked and guide you through the process of restoring your files. It must be noted, however, that if you don’t have a paid Microsoft 365 subscription, you only get one detection and file recovery for free.

If your OneDrive files get deleted, corrupted, or infected by malware, you can restore your entire OneDrive to a previous state. Here’s how you can restore your entire OneDrive:

1. If you're signed in with a personal account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Options and select Restore your OneDrive.

If you're signed in with a work or school account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Restore your OneDrive.

2. On the Restore your OneDrive page, select a date from the drop-down list. Note that if you're restoring your files after automatic ransomware detection, a restore date will be selected for you.

3. After configuring all of the file restoration options, click Restore to undo all the activities you selected.

The best way to avoid damage from ransomware infections is to maintain regular up-to-date backups.

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UPDATED: On Monday, March 30, 2020, the USCIS provided us with revised (and clarified) guidance on how to document an expired driver’s license or state ID on the Form I-9 due to a COVID-19 extension. Our original article has been modified as indicated in red font below.

During the past few weeks, many states across the US have been closing their DMV branch offices to the public in order to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, individuals may be unable to apply for a new driver’s license or state ID, particularly when an in-person visit is required. To minimize customer inconvenience, many of these states are either extending the validity of the driver’s licenses and state IDs automatically or in some cases, simply limiting enforcement in the event of traffic stops.

But as we all know, the Form I-9 rules dictate that employers may only accept unexpired documents, with a few exceptions for certain documents which are auto-extended by DHS (such as EADs). Employers may also accept a variety of different receipts, including those for the application to replace a lost, stolen or damaged document – however, this would not be applicable for someone who is simply renewing their driver’s license or ID.

Last week, we inquired with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on whether they would create a special allowance for employees who are unable to renew a driver’s license or state ID as a result of COVID-19. Today, the USCIS responded with the following Q&A guidance:

Q: Many states are extending the expiration date of state IDs and/or driver’s licenses. How should the extension be documented in Section 2?

A: If the employee’s state ID or driver’s license expired on or after March 1, 2020, and the document expiration date has been extended by their state due to COVID-19, then it is acceptable as a List B document for Form I-9. Enter the document’s expiration date in Section 2 and enter “COVID-19 EXT” in the Additional Information field. Employers may also attach a copy of the state motor vehicle department’s webpage or other notice indicating that their documents have been extended.

The Section 2 expiration date should be the actual expiration date printed on the employee’s document and not an auto-extension date.

Employers can confirm that their state has auto-extended the expiration date of state IDs and driver’s licenses by checking the state Motor Vehicle Administration or Department of Motor Vehicle’s website.

Author’s note: as of this writing, the USCIS has not yet published this guidance on their website (however, we expect them to do so very soon).

As indicated in the Q&A above, employers are able to accept expired driver’s licenses or state IDs as a List B document for I-9 purposes so long as the ID expired on or after March 1, 2020. Unfortunately, the guidance is vague on whether the employer should enter the “expired” date in the List B expiration date field or the auto-extended date, which is generally the recommended process for these types of scenarios. LawLogix has inquired with the USCIS, and we anticipate additional guidance will be forthcoming.(Revised 3/30).

In addition, employers are instructed to enter the expired date of the driver’s license (or state ID) in Section 2, which is a departure from how they typically handle auto-extended documents such as EADs. We suspect that the USCIS chose this process in light of the fact that auto-extended dates are often a moving target (since some states are extending for a period of time after the state of emergency has been lifted).

What should you do if your new hire’s driver’s license or state ID expired before March 1, 2020? One thing to remember is that employees may present a wide variety of documents in order to demonstrate both identity and work authorization. Therefore, as a first step, you may inquire whether the individual has any other documents from the Lists of Acceptable Documents which can be presented instead. Asking for alternative documents is a standard practice when an employee provides a document which does not meet the strict requirements of the Form I-9.

*********

If you have any questions on this alert or need help in managing your I-9s remotely during this crisis, please contact us here. LawLogix will continue monitoring this situation very closely, and provide alerts and practice advisories as soon as possible.

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