How to remove Ghas File Ransomware Virus (+ Restore files)

Ghas is a rapidly spreading ransomware virus. This virus has infected a lot of computers very recently. It belongs to the Stop/Djvu family and uses a very advanced encryption algorithm. It encrypts users’ data to render all the files useless and demands ransom money for decryption.

Ghas ransomware appends the “.ghas” extension to encrypted files. For example, after encrypting a file named “myphoto.jpg”, it renames it to “myphoto.jpg.ghas”. Ransomware also leaves “_readme.txt” ransom notes in all compromised folders.

The ransom note contains a threatening message and cybercriminals’ contact details. It asks users to contact attackers via email addresses support@sysmail.ch or supportsys@airmail.cc. It is asking $980 in Bitcoin for the private key and decrypt software.

What is Ghas Virus?

Ghas is a very notorious file-encrypting malware. It is a dangerous and rapidly spreading malware. It uses a powerful military-grade encryption algorithm to lock files on infected PC. This virus takes all your files hostage and demands a huge sum of money as ransom.

This virus is aimed to extort money from innocent victims. Files affected by this threat contain the “.Ghas” extension at the end. You can see your files on your system but cannot access them. You will need a private key and decryption software to restore your files to their original formats.

This Ghas virus is quite effective. It can encrypt all types of files like images, videos, music, documents, databases, backups, etc. After encrypting your personal files, it also generates the “_readme.txt” file. It is a ransom note that contains information about how to contact attackers and buy decryption tools.

It will ask you that your files are encrypted but you can restore them for a price. The Ransom note says that there is but one method to recover your files. You will need to buy decryption tools and as proof of their software, they are willing to decrypt one file for free.

The price of the Ghas Ransomware decryptor is set to $980 to be paid in BitCoin (cryptocurrency). Attackers are also throwing a discount of 50% for those who are willing to pay within 72 hours. It is the biggest scam of this virus to lure more users into paying ransom money.

Working of Ghas Files Virus

Ghas silently intrudes on your PC and scans your entire hard drive for files. Then it starts the encryption of your data. This process happens so fast that users don’t even notice. Once it makes all your files inaccessible, then it leaves the ransom note in all compromised folders.

You can see the “.Ghas” extension at the end of all your files. No matter it is a video or picture or database or any other file. You will find that all your files icons got changed. All your files will still be there on your system but in encrypted form. You can see them but cannot access them with any of your system programs.

If you try to rename your files by removing the extension, data can get corrupted. You will need a decryptor to restore your files to their original formats. Unfortunately, there is no free Ghas Decryptor available right now. If you will try to restore your files through the backup, this virus will encrypt them too.

Contents of the “_Readme.txt” ransom note

Ghas virus creates the ransom note “_readme.txt” after encrypting all your files. You can find this note in almost every compromised folder. This note simply explains that all your files are now encrypted and you cannot access them.

Attackers claim to have a decryption tool that can restore your files. But they want you to pay for the software beforehand. You can also find that they are offering to decrypt 1 file for free as proof that the decryptor works. The price for the decryption software and the private key is $980.

Victims who will pay within 72 hours will get a discount of 50% which means the price for them will be $490. You can also find the email addresses of cybercriminals on which you can write them to buy the decryptor. Criminals also threaten that you will never be able to restore your data without paying ransom money.

Ransom note “_readme.txt” contains the following text message :

ATTENTION!

Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
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 valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-FglTTmgzZT
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@sysmail.ch

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
supportsys@airmail.cc

Your personal ID:
-

How it infects your computer?

You must be wondering how this virus infected your PC? There are a lot of ways through which this Ghas virus has compromised your system. Cybercriminals use various ways to spread their creation online and target a huge number of computers.

Spam email campaigns are one the most used methods. Attackers create fake emails containing malicious attachments and use software to send them to lots of people at once. They buy email lists and create emails pretending to be some company or famous person. When you get such junk emails, do not open attachments without scanning and do not click on any links.

Cybercriminals also use software bundling to spread malware. If you are downloading any freeware application from a shady website then always used Custom or Advanced installation. They often contain hidden programs that automatically get installed without permission.

Cracked or pirated software, themes, games also contains threat like Trojan to spoof the license. They can spread malware like Ghas virus quite easily. Also do not visit porn or torrent websites and avoid sharing files on unsafe networks. Clicking on misleading ads, banners, pop-ups, warnings, etc. can also lead you to suspicious sites that execute the malware on loading.

Ghas Ransomware: Threat Analysis

Name	Ghas
Type	Ransomware, File-Encrypting virus
Family	STOP/DJVU Ransomware
Extension	.Ghas
Threat Level	High (Encrypt all your data and Restrict access to your files).
Symptoms	Victims cannot access any files on their PC and find Ransom notes asking for money.
Damage	Ghas Ransomware will encrypt your data by adding the “.Ghas” extension to file names and demand ransom money for the decryption key.
Ransom Note	_Readme.txt
Ransom Amount	$490 USD to $980 USD
Distribution	It is mainly distributed through spam emails, bundled freeware, porn, or torrent sites.
Removal	Download SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware
File Recovery	Download Data Recovery Software

Why I cannot access my files?

You are not able to access your data because of a ransomware attack. Most people don’t actually know anything about ransomware infection. They have no idea about how come they are not able to access any of their data. They simply think that restarting their PC would solve the problem.

But as we told you, ransomware is a file-encrypting virus. It only renders your files inaccessible to prohibit you from accessing your data. Cybercriminals demand the ransom money to give you access to your files back. So if all your files are renamed and have the “.Ghas” extension at the end, they are encrypted.

How can I restore my files?

There are ways to restore encrypted data but none of them are easy. There are some risks involved that must be considered first. Attackers are offering a decryptor that can restore your files but they are asking for a huge price. It is not easy to trust someone who has already done you harm by encrypting all your files. You cannot rely on them to keep their promise after getting paid.

You can restore your files through backup if you have one (of course). But for that, you need to remove this Ghas Ransomware from your computer first. Otherwise, it will keep encrypting your files and it can also infect your backup. So it is very important to get rid of the virus to start the recovery process.

You might think reinstalling your Windows can remove this virus. It is a bad idea because you will not be able to restore your files then. Also, this virus can hide in other drives and attack your system again. Wiping off your computer could remove this threat but again you cannot restore your data.

So you need to remove this Ghas Ransomware first from your PC. Then create a backup of your encrypted files on any USB drive or Cloud drive for safekeeping. Then proceed with the data restoration through backup. if you don’t have any backup then try data recovery software.

Why you should not pay ransom money?

Paying ransom money to buy .Ghas File decryptor is not a good idea. Attackers are only interested in stealing your money and they do not care about your files. Threatening to double the ransom fee in 72 hours is a scare technique. They want to intimidate you lose hope of restoring your data any other way.

Cybercriminals often stop communicating after getting paid. Most of the victims don’t get the decryption key after paying money. Djvu variants are also known to re-attack the previous targets. Once you use the decryptor, the virus stays on your PC and the next variant can re-encrypt your data.

You need to completely get rid of this Ghas infection to stop further damages. Decryptors don’t always work, some time data get corrupted, so it is not sure that you will get your files back. We advise you not to trust the attackers, no matter how desperate you are, don’t risk losing your money too.

How to protect your PC from Ghas Ransomware

Protection from threats like the Ghas virus is very crucial. You need to be ready if you don’t want to get blackmailed by cybercriminals. You just need to follow some basic rules and you will never be forced by any ransomware infection.

Use a good Anti-virus program and always scan your PC for threats. Make sure that your Windows is up to date and the firewall is active. Also, keep the latest backup of all your important files on any external USB drive or cloud drive. If any ransomware attacks your system, then you can just remove the virus and restore data from backup.

Do not open spam emails from unknown senders. Always scan the attachments before opening them. Do not click on links that look suspicious. Never click on fake pop-up ads, banners, warnings, notifications, etc. that appear on your browser.

Do not download cracked software or games ever. Such programs often have virus payloads that will infect your system instantly.  Avoid downloading hacks or illegal patches for games. Stop visiting porn or torrent sites because they often cause forced redirection to malicious sites.

How To Remove Ghas Virus

Ghas File Virus is a dangerous malware that can cause major damage to your computer. This nasty threat will bring several new problems on your PC. This is why it is quite imperative to delete this threat permanently before it completely damages your entire computer system. Once it manages to infiltrate your system, it will make your system vulnerable. This nasty malware is capable of bringing other harmful viruses on your system without your consent. It can completely obliterate your system performance in no time. This virus also has tendency to hide its malicious copies at various locations on your PC under different names. It is not an easy job to find and remove those virus related files manually.

In this guide, you will find instructions for two very different techniques to get rid of Ghas Virus infection . The first one is the Automatic Removal which is quite fast, effective and accurate. The second method is Manual Removal which usually takes lots of time, needs technical expertise, and often fails to give desired results. However, it is advised to take help of both techniques to ensure complete removal of the malware from your system. In case you are not handy with system operations and techincal stuff, just opt for the automatic malware removal process to eliminate Ghas Ransomware.

Automatic Ghas Virus Removal Guide

As you already know that, Ghas Virus is a notorious and cunning malware. It is quite hard to remove through manual means. This virus can create various files and shortcuts or modify system settings. It can keep coming back on your computer using them. Removing all those at once is the only way to get rid of this infection. It will also ensure that this virus cannot sneak into your system ever again.

Remove Ghas virus effectively with a powerful Automatic Removal Tool. It will save you lots of time and effort. It can detect and remove all hidden threats like Trojan, Ransomware, Worms, Spyware, Rootkits, etc. You will also get 24X7 customer support and one-on-one Spyware HelpDesk support. Advanced System Guard feature detects and removes threats in real-time. It has a very User-Friendly Interface and regular Malware updates make it most effective against the latest malware attacks.

How SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware Works

• First, you need to click on the below download button to get the software.

Geek’s Recommendation

Some time threats like Ghas Virus keep getting back on the machine if all associated files are not removed. You should use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your PC and delete all threats at once.

Compatible with: Windows 11/10/8/7 (32 Bit and 64 Bit)

• Then double-click on the installer you downloaded to install the program.

• Launch Anti-Malware application and Start Scan Now of your PC.

• The software will scan your PC for all hidden threats and viruses on your system.

• Click on the Next button to see results and delete Ghas and other threats.

How To Recover .Ghas Files

After removing .Ghas Virus, you need to recover your data. If your files are important then you must have created a backup. If yes, then you can use that backup to recover your files. In case you don’t have a backup or this virus has encrypted your backup files, then you are left to seek professional help.

At this point, there is no Ghas ransomware decryption tool available. We recommend you use powerful data recovery software to decrypt .Ghas Files. It is a risk-free and smart way. You can just download the free version and scan your PC for files. There is a high probability that it can recover most of your files. It is also needless to say that paying the ransom will only motivate cybercriminals to carry out more attacks.

• First, you need to download Data Recovery software on your PC.

Download Data Recovery Software

• Install the program, launch it then select the Data type to recover, and click the Next button.

• Select the location from where you want to recover data and click the Scan button.

• After the scan, software will list all files, select them and click the Recover button.

Manual Ghas Removal Guide

Start PC in safe mode with networking

End Process From Task Manager

• Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
• Type taskmgr in Run Box and then click the OK button.
• Find any Ghas Virus related process.
• Now right-click on it then click End process.

Uninstall Ghas from Windows PC

Remove Virus related IP address from Hosts Files

• Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
• Type C:Windows/System32/drivers/etc in Run Box and then click the OK button.
• Now open the hosts file with Notepad.
• Look for any suspicious IP address that might be related to Ghas Virus.
• Delete all the unknown IP addresses and save the host files.

Remove Virus related Windows Registry entries

• Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
• Type regedit in Run Box and then click the OK button.
• Registry Editor will open, then press CTRL +F buttons together.
• Now type Ghas and then click on Find Next button.
• Find all the related entries and delete them one by one

Delete Virus related files from your PC

When a threat gets on to a PC, it most likely creates some files at different locations on the system. These files are used to perform a specific action and also help malware in getting back to the computer once it’s removed. So you just need to find also delete all those files associated with this .Ghas File Virus. For that follow the below instruction :

• Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard
• Type each of the following in Run Box and press the OK button

1. %AppData%
2. %LocalAppData%
3. %ProgramData%
4. %WinDir%
5. %Temp%

For the first four options, look for any recent folder related to the .Ghas File Virus and remove them. For the Temp folder, you can delete all the files.

Remove Ghas Virus via system restore

• Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
• Type cmd in Run Box and then click the OK button.
• Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter.
• When the System Restore window opens on your computer screen click the Next button, then choose a System Restore point you have created in the past and click the Next button.
• Finally, click on the Yes button to start the system restoration process.

Note: This will only work if you have a restore point set on your PC or it will give an error message. Restoring the computer to a previous version may or may not remove .Ghas File Virus. Most of the time, viruses just delete all the restore points. If this trick does not work for you then don’t get disappointed.

After restoring your computer, we recommend you run a thorough scan of the PC using a Powerful Anti-Malware program to detect and remove any hidden threats. In most cases, viruses may spread through any files outside of the C drive because system restoring only affect the C drive. There may be some Virus related files hiding your PC, and it never hurts to double-check.

Sometimes, system restore doesn’t work or viruses can just remove the restore points. As such you will probably have no other choice than to choose the Automatic Removal Process. It is the best and error-free method to find and remove threats from your computer. Additionally, you should also check some important malware prevention tips provided here in this guide to avoid similar virus attacks in the future.

Remove Ghas Virus From MacOS

If you are a mac user, and your machine got infected by this file-encrypting malware then you need to remove it as soon as possible. Although Mac systems are quite safe they still do get infected. So you can delete this infection using the below steps:

Stop Virus From Activity Monitor

• First, you need to open Utilities folder on your Mac system.
• Find the Activity Monitor icon and double-click on it to open it.
• Find Ghas related process, click the cross button from the upper left side corner to end task.
• A pop-up dialogue box will appear on the screen, click on the Force Quit button.

Remove Virus From Application Folder

• First, go to the Dock option (bottom of your screen) then click on Finder App.
• Now you have to open the Applications Folders to see all the programs.
• Find Ghas or any other unwanted program then move it to Trash.

Remove Ghas Virus Related Files From Mac

When any program is installed on your Mac, it creates several files on your system that support the functioning of that application. If you need to remove any virus from your Mac, then you need to delete all related files completely. These files could be found at :

1. LaunchAgents
2. Application Support
3. LaunchDaemons

Follow below steps to remove virus related files from these locations:

• First of all press the Command+Shift+G buttons together on your keyboard.
• Now you can see Go To Folder option on your Mac screen.
• Type in /Library/LaunchAgents in the text field and click on Go button.
• Find and remove any Ghas Virus related files.

Now follow the same process for Application Support and LaunchDaemons folders. But be careful, don’t delete any important files or you can break down your entire system.

How SpyHunter Mac Anti-Malware Works

• First, download the SpyHunter for Mac by clicking on the below button.

Some time threats like Ghas Virus keep getting back on the machine if all associated files are not removed. So you are advised to use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your Mac and delete all threats at once.

• Now go to the Download Folder from the Docs and Install the SpyHunter Anti-Malware For Mac.

• Launch the Program, and click on Start Scan Now button.

• The software will start running a full scan of your mac instantly to look for any malware or security risks, and so on.

• Finally, you will see a list of malware detected on your mac, now click on the Next button to start the removal process.

Tips To Prevent .Ghas Virus in Future

• Use a good anti-virus, be it a free version but don’t use cracked security programs.
• Make sure that your Windows firewall is active, so it can block upcoming threats.
• Keep your Windows/Mac OS and other programs updated to avoid vulnerabilities.
• Download updates only from official websites, don’t use suspicious sites.
• Never download and install pirated software, games, or illegal patches on your PC.
• Do not open spam emails from an unknown sender and scan all attachments before opening.
• Never download freeware third-party programs from unreliable sources or websites.
• Avoid connecting your PC to unsafe public Wi-Fi to protect your privacy.
• You can also use a VPN to spoof your connection and avoid harmful sites.
• Create a system restore point on your system for security purposes.
• Keep a backup of all your important files to avoid data loss.

Frequently Asked Questions