The VER_TU Ransomware Attack: A Complete 2025 Guide to Recovery and Eradication

A new and sophisticated ransomware variant, identified as VER_TU, has been actively targeting corporate and personal systems. This malware is characterized by its unique file-renaming scheme and its use of a specific decryption ID within the file type itself. Victims report that files are encrypted and renamed with random strings, with the file type shown as VER_TU-ZKN in Windows.

The attack is accompanied by a ransom note, DECRYPT_info.txt, which provides contact details and warns against self-recovery. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step playbook for understanding the VER_TU threat, confirming its family, and exploring every viable pathway to recover your data.

Latest : SnowSoul Ransomware (.snowsoul) Recovery and Decryption Guide

Threat Summary Table

Decoding the Threat: The VER_TU Ransom Note

The VER_TU attackers use a straightforward text file to communicate their demands. The note is designed to be intimidating while simultaneously projecting a false sense of professionalism and cooperation.

The text presented in the ransom note reads as follows:

Hello my dear friend
(Do not scan the files with antivirus in any case. In case of data loss, the consequences are yours)

Your data is encrypted by VER_TU
Your decryption ID is ZKn79qjHydOAF3udGrdfHsufb1kKcjZlWskWRF0kp0s*VER_TU-ZKn79qjHydOAF3udGrdfHsufb1kKcjZlWskWRF0kp0s

Unfortunately for you, a major IT security weakness left you open to attack, your files have been encrypted
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
If you want to recover your files, write us eMail - data771@tuta.io
Backup eMail - data771@cyberfear.com

Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software - it may cause permanent data loss.
We are always ready to cooperate and find the best way to solve your problem. The faster you write - the more favorable conditions will be for you.
Our company values its reputation. We give all guarantees of your files decryption.

Also read: Fusion Ransomware (.fusion) Recovery and Decryption Complete Guide

Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) and Attack Behavior

Recognizing the signs of a VER_TU infection is the first critical step. The malware’s distinct file-renaming convention and its unique ransom note are its most obvious fingerprints.

Indicators of Compromise (IOCs):

• File Renaming Scheme: The most obvious indicator is that files are renamed with random strings and the file type is set to VER_TU-ZKN (or similar, based on the ID).
• Ransom Note File: The presence of a text file named DECRYPT_info.txt in directories containing encrypted files.
• Contact Information: The note provides specific email addresses (data771@tuta.io, data771@cyberfear.com) for communication.
• Decryption ID: The note contains a long, unique decryption ID that is also incorporated into the file type metadata.
• Deceptive Instructions: A key behavioral indicator is the note’s instruction not to scan files with antivirus, a clear attempt to prevent detection and removal.

Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) with MITRE ATT&CK Framework:

• Initial Access (TA0001): VER_TU gains entry through common vectors. These include phishing emails with malicious attachments, exploiting outdated software vulnerabilities, pirated programs, key generators, and malicious ads.
• Execution (TA0002): Once the user executes the malicious file, the ransomware payload is activated, beginning its encryption routine across the system’s drives.
• Impact (TA0040): The primary impact is data encryption and the disruption of business operations. The secondary impact is psychological pressure through the ransom note.

The Recovery Playbook: A Multi-Path Approach to Data Restoration

This core section outlines the primary methods for recovering your VER_TU encrypted data.

Path 1: The Direct Decryption Solution

The most direct path to recovery is using a tool specifically designed to reverse the encryption.

Our Specialized VER_TU Decryptor

Our team has developed a specialized decryptor to counter the VER_TU threat. By leveraging advanced cryptographic analysis and pattern recognition, our tool can often reconstruct the decryption keys without needing to interact with the attackers.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Step 1: Assess the Infection: Confirm the presence of the DECRYPT_info.txt file and identify the unique file-renaming pattern (VER_TU-ZKN).
• Step 2: Secure the Environment: CRITICAL: Ignore the note’s instructions. Disconnect the infected device from the network immediately to halt the spread.
• Step 3: Submit Files for Analysis: Send a few encrypted samples (under 5MB) and the ransom note file to our team. This allows us to confirm the VER_TU variant and build an accurate recovery timeline.
• Step 4: Run the VER_TU Decryptor: Launch the tool with administrative privileges. The decryptor connects securely to our servers to analyze encryption markers and file headers.
• Step 5: Enter the Victim ID: The unique ID provided in the ransom note (e.g., ZKn79qjHydOAF3udGrdfHsufb1kKcjZlWskWRF0kp0s) is required to generate a customized decryption profile.
• Step 6: Automated File Restoration: Once initiated, the decryptor verifies file integrity and restores data automatically.

Also read: Marabu (.marabu) Ransomware Recovery and Removal Guide 2025

Public Decryption Tools and Repositories

If our tool is not applicable, several public initiatives are invaluable. Always identify the ransomware strain before using any tool, as running the wrong decryptor can cause permanent damage.

• ID Ransomware Service: Use the free ID Ransomware service to upload the ransom note and a sample encrypted file. The service will identify the strain and tell you if a known decryptor exists. Find it at ID Ransomware.
• The No More Ransom Project: This is the most important resource, providing a centralized repository of free decryption tools. Visit their Decryption Tools page and search for “VER_TU”.
• Major Security Vendor Decryptors:
  • Emsisoft: Renowned for its ransomware expertise, Emsisoft offers a variety of decryptors. Check their website for available tools at Emsisoft Decryptors.
  • Kaspersky: Through its No Ransom portal, Kaspersky provides the latest decryptors and removal tools. Visit Kaspersky No Ransom.
  • Avast: Provides numerous free ransomware decryption tools. Find them on the Avast Ransomware Decryption Tools page.
  • Trend Micro: Offers a Ransomware File Decryptor for numerous known ransomware families. You can download it from the Trend Micro website.

Path 2: The Gold Standard – Backup Restoration

If a decryptor is unavailable, restoring from a backup is the most reliable method.

Enterprise-Grade Backups: Veeam

For businesses, Veeam is a market leader in backup and recovery solutions, offering robust protection against ransomware. Veeam can create immutable backups that cannot be altered by the ransomware and offers specialized recovery processes like Cleanroom Recovery to prevent reinfection. Learn more at the official Veeam website.

Cloud and Native Backups

• Microsoft OneDrive: If you use OneDrive, you may be able to restore your files using its Version History feature.
• Windows File Versions (Shadow Copies): VER_TU likely attempts to delete these, but sometimes remnants remain. To check, right-click on an encrypted file, select Properties, and go to the Previous Versions tab.

Path 3: Last Resort – Data Recovery Software

This method has a low probability of success with modern ransomware like VER_TU but can be a lifeline if no backups exist.

• EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: A user-friendly tool that can recover lost, deleted, or formatted data. You can download it from the EaseUS website.
• Stellar Data Recovery: A powerful recovery application known for its scanning capabilities. Find it at the Stellar Data Recovery official site.
• Recuva: A free and effective tool for recovering deleted files. Download it from CCleaner’s official site.

Important Procedure: Install the data recovery software on a separate, clean computer. Then, connect the infected hard drive to it as an external drive.

Essential Incident Response and Prevention

A full response includes containment, eradication, and future prevention. It is critical to ignore the ransomware’s instructions.

Containment and Eradication

1. Isolate the Infected System: Immediately disconnect the machine from the network. Do not follow the note’s warning against scanning.
2. Remove the Malware: Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to scan for and remove the ransomware executable. The note’s warning is a lie to protect their malware.
3. Change All Passwords: Assume that credentials have been compromised and change passwords for all user accounts, especially administrators, and for any network services or cloud accounts.

Hardening Your Defenses with Modern Protection

• Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP/EDR): Solutions like SentinelOne Singularity™ Endpoint and CrowdStrike Falcon focus on preventing ransomware by identifying and neutralizing threats using behavioral AI.
• Integrated Cyber Protection: Tools like Acronis Cyber Protect combine a traditional antivirus with integrated backup and recovery.
• The 3-2-1 Backup Rule: Maintain at least three copies of your data, on two different types of media, with one copy stored off-site or in the cloud.
• Employee Training: Conduct regular security awareness training to teach staff how to spot phishing emails and malicious links.

Post-Recovery: Securing Your Environment and Ensuring Resilience

This critical phase begins after your files have been restored.

• Step 1: Verify Data Integrity and Completeness: Check restored files for corruption and completeness by opening a sample from different directories and file types.
• Step 2: Conduct a Full, Deep System Scan: Run a full, deep scan of your entire system using a reputable antivirus or anti-malware solution.
• Step 3: Fortify All Credentials: Change all user, admin, service, and cloud passwords. Enforce the use of strong, unique passwords for every account.
• Step 4: Patch and Update Everything: Update the OS and all third-party applications to close security holes that the attackers may have exploited.
• Step 5: Reconnect to the Network Cautiously: Monitor for unusual activity upon reconnection.
• Step 6: Implement or Strengthen a 3-2-1 Backup Strategy: Create or improve a robust backup system and test it regularly.
• Step 7: Perform a Post-Incident Analysis: Review how the attack happened. Use this knowledge to improve user training and security policies.

Reporting Obligations

Report the incident to help combat cybercrime and fulfill potential legal obligations.

• Report to Law Enforcement: In the US, file a complaint with the FBI’s IC3. In the UK, report to Action Fraud.
• Report to CISA: The U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) urges reporting via its portal.

Conclusion

The VER_TU ransomware represents a significant threat due to its unique encryption method and its manipulative ransom note. The attackers’ instructions are designed to prevent proper incident response and maintain control. However, like all ransomware, it can be defeated with a calm, methodical, and prepared response. The most critical first step is to ignore the note’s deceptive advice, isolate the infected systems, and begin eradication. The path to resilience begins with a multi-layered security posture that combines advanced endpoint protection, robust network security, and a disciplined 3-2-1 backup strategy.

Paying the ransom only fuels the criminal ecosystem and offers no guarantee of a positive outcome. By understanding the tactics of threats like VER_TU and preparing accordingly, you can transform a potential catastrophe into a manageable incident, ensuring that your data—and your peace of mind—remain secure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Contact Us To Purchase The VER_TU Decryptor Tool