PayForRepair ransomware, a formidable variant within the Dharma/Crysis ransomware family, has emerged as a significant cybersecurity threat. This malicious software infiltrates systems, encrypts critical data, and demands ransom payments for decryption. Its ability to target various environments, including Windows servers and VMware ESXi hypervisors, underscores the importance of understanding its operation and implementing effective recovery strategies.
PayForRepair ransomware operates by encrypting files and appending them with a unique identifier, the attackers’ email address, and the “.P4R” extension. For example, a file named “document.docx” would be renamed to “document.docx.id-XXXXXX.[payforrepair@tuta.io].P4R”. The ransomware then drops a ransom note named “info.txt” in each affected directory, detailing the ransom demands and contact information.
PayForRepair ransomware has been observed targeting VMware ESXi hypervisors, exploiting vulnerabilities to gain administrative access. Once inside, it encrypts virtual machine files at the datastore level, including VMDK, VMX, and log files, effectively rendering the virtual environment inoperable. The attackers then leave ransom notes at the datastore level, demanding payment for decryption.
PayForRepair Ransomware Attack on Windows Servers
In Windows environments, PayForRepair ransomware infiltrates systems through methods such as phishing emails and unsecured Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) services. Once executed, it encrypts a wide range of file types using robust encryption algorithms like AES and RSA. The ransomware then appends the “.P4R” extension to the encrypted files and drops ransom notes in affected directories, instructing victims on how to pay the ransom to regain access to their data.
Encryption Methods Employed by PayForRepair Ransomware
PayForRepair ransomware utilizes a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms to secure the victim’s files. Typically, it employs AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) for encrypting the files and RSA (Rivest–Shamir–Adleman) for encrypting the AES key. This dual-layered encryption approach ensures that the files remain inaccessible without the corresponding decryption key, which the attackers hold.
Identifying a PayForRepair Ransomware Infection
Recognizing the signs of a PayForRepair ransomware infection is crucial for prompt response:
Altered File Extensions: Encrypted files will have the “.P4R” extension, along with a unique ID and the attackers’ email address.
Presence of Ransom Notes: Files named “info.txt” will appear in affected directories, containing ransom demands and contact information.​
Text contained in the ransom note:
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
write email payforrepair@tuta.io or payforrepair@mailum.com
Screenshot of the ransom note:
A pop-up with the following message also appears:
All your files have been encrypted!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files! If you want to restore them, write to the mail: payforrepair@tuta.io YOUR ID – If you have not answered by mail within 12 hours, write to us by another mail:payforrepair@mailum.com
Free decryption as guarantee Before paying you can send us up to 3 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 3Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
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Attention! Do not rename encrypted files. Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss. Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
System Performance Issues: Infected systems may exhibit slow performance or unusual behavior due to the encryption process.​
Unusual Network Activity: The ransomware may communicate with external servers, leading to abnormal outbound network traffic.​
Ransom Note
The ransom note, typically named “info.txt”, contains instructions from the attackers on how to pay the ransom and recover the encrypted files. It includes the ransom amount, payment method (usually cryptocurrency), and contact information. The note often warns against attempting to decrypt the files using third-party tools, threatening permanent data loss if the ransom is not paid within a specified timeframe.​
Utilizing the PayForRepair Decryptor for Recovery
The PayForRepair Decryptor is a specialized tool designed to decrypt files encrypted by PayForRepair ransomware. It operates by identifying the encryption algorithms used and applying appropriate decryption methods. The tool connects to secure servers to retrieve necessary keys or bypass certain encryption mechanisms.​
Steps to Use the PayForRepair Decryptor:
Securely Obtain the Tool: Contact the provider via WhatsApp or email to purchase the PayForRepair Decryptor.​
Run with Administrative Privileges: Launch the tool on the infected device with administrator access and ensure an active internet connection.​
Connect to Secure Servers: The decryptor will automatically connect to secure servers to generate unique decryption keys.​
Enter Victim ID: Locate the Victim ID in the ransom note and input it into the decryptor.​
Initiate Decryption: Click the “Decrypt” button to begin the decryption process and restore your files.​
User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, requiring no technical expertise.​
Efficient Decryption: Utilizes secure servers to decrypt data without overloading the system.​
Data Integrity: Ensures that your files remain intact and uncorrupted during the decryption process.​
Tailored Solution: Specifically developed to counteract PayForRepair ransomware.​
Money-Back Guarantee: If the tool fails to decrypt your files, a refund is provided upon request.​
Preventative Measures Against PayForRepair Ransomware
Implementing robust cybersecurity practices can mitigate the risk of ransomware infections:
Regular Updates and Patching: Keep all software and systems up to date with the latest security patches.​
Strengthen Access Controls: Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.​
Network Segmentation: Isolate critical systems to prevent the spread of ransomware.​
Reliable Backups: Maintain regular, encrypted backups stored offline or in secure cloud environments.
Deploy Endpoint Security Solutions Use advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools along with up-to-date antivirus software. These can detect suspicious activity and prevent malware from executing.
Employee Awareness and Training Educate all staff on the risks of phishing emails, malicious attachments, and unsafe browsing habits. Conduct regular training sessions and phishing simulations to keep employees alert.
Advanced Network Defenses Install and configure firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and intrusion prevention systems (IPS). Use network monitoring tools to flag unusual traffic patterns which may indicate malware activity.
Incident Response Planning Create and regularly test a robust incident response plan. Know how to isolate infected systems, preserve logs for investigation, and communicate effectively during and after an attack.
Unified Protection Strategy for ESXi, Windows, and IT Infrastructure
A cross-platform ransomware like PayForRepair requires a unified defense strategy:
For ESXi Servers
Monitor for unusual activity at the datastore level.
Restrict SSH access and use strong credentials.
Regularly back up VMs and test restoration procedures.
Potential Data Exfiltration – Some attackers may steal sensitive data to use as leverage in double-extortion tactics.
Consequences of a PayForRepair Infection
The effects of a successful ransomware attack can be devastating:
Business Downtime – Loss of access to essential data disrupts day-to-day operations.
Financial Impact – Costs related to ransom, downtime, remediation, and lost revenue can be immense.
Reputational Harm – Public disclosure of a data breach may lead to loss of customer trust.
Legal and Compliance Risks – Failure to protect sensitive data could result in regulatory penalties.
Free Alternatives for File Recovery
If you are looking for no-cost recovery solutions, consider these options before paying a ransom:
NoMoreRansom.org – Offers free decryption tools for various ransomware strains.
Restore from Backup – Always the safest and most reliable method, if backups are unaffected.
Windows Volume Shadow Copies – Use tools like vssadmin list shadows to check if previous versions of files exist.
System Restore – If enabled, revert your system to a point before the infection occurred.
Data Recovery Tools – Software like Recuva, EaseUS, or PhotoRec might help recover deleted or partially encrypted files.
Consult Cybersecurity Professionals – Law enforcement agencies or digital forensics firms might assist in identifying variants or tools to assist recovery.
Conclusion
PayForRepair ransomware represents one of the more complex and destructive threats in the modern digital landscape. Its targeted encryption of critical infrastructure, especially in ESXi and Windows server environments, poses severe challenges to businesses and individuals alike. However, recovery is not impossible.With tools like the PayForRepair Decryptor, victims can safely and effectively regain access to their encrypted files without paying a ransom.
Coupled with proactive defense strategies—ranging from patch management and endpoint protection to employee training and robust backups—organizations can minimize the risk and recover swiftly when faced with such threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
PayForRepair ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files, demanding a ransom in exchange for the decryption key.
PayForRepair ransomware typically spreads through phishing emails, unsecured RDPs, and vulnerabilities in software and firmware.
The consequences of a PayForRepair ransomware attack can include operational disruption, financial loss, and data breaches.
To protect your organization from PayForRepair ransomware, implement robust security practices, conduct employee training, maintain reliable backups, use advanced security solutions, and restrict network access.
The PayForRepair Decryptortool is a software solution specifically designed to decrypt files encrypted by PayForRepair ransomware, restoring access without a ransom payment.
The PayForRepair Decryptortool operates by identifying the encryption algorithms used by PayForRepair ransomware and applying appropriate decryption methods. It interacts with secure online servers to retrieve necessary keys or bypass certain encryption mechanisms.
Yes, the PayForRepair Decryptortool is safe to use. It does not stress your system, as it uses dedicated servers over the internet to decrypt your data efficiently.
