BOBER Ransomware Decryptor
BOBER ransomware, a disruptive strain from the CONTI family, encrypts user files using unpredictable file extensions, making traditional recovery extremely difficult. In response to this growing threat, cybersecurity experts have developed a tailored decryption solution—specifically optimized for use on Windows-based systems.
Unlike generic decryptors, this tool has been engineered with pinpoint accuracy, delivering reliable performance and compatibility across a wide range of infected environments. Already deployed across multiple continents, the decryptor has successfully recovered vital data for businesses, public institutions, and IT departments, helping them regain control over mission-critical operations.
Secure Architecture Behind the Recovery System
The foundation of this recovery method lies in cloud-based decryption, layered with several safety checks. File analysis and processing are conducted in a secure environment where AI algorithms verify file integrity before any changes are made. Victim-specific identifiers embedded in each ransom note ensure that only authorized encrypted files are matched and decrypted, providing a precise, customized approach.
This system is also flexible enough to support premium recovery scenarios. For newer versions of BOBER—even those deployed without leaving behind a ransom note—the advanced decryptor still operates efficiently. Importantly, all recovery scans are conducted in read-only mode until verification is complete, ensuring files remain unaltered and secure throughout the process.
Essential Files Required for Recovery
Before launching the recovery process, users must gather several key components:
- The ransom note, typically named R3ADM3.txt
- Access to a batch of the encrypted files, which may use random extensions like .qkfhr
- A stable internet connection to interact with the secure decryption servers
- Local administrative privileges on all affected systems
These items are essential to begin recovery, especially because the decryptor uses identifiers from the ransom note to link encrypted files with their original state.
What the Ransom Note Typically Says
BOBER’s ransom note is direct and intentionally threatening. Here’s a breakdown of its most critical points:
All of your files are currently encrypted by BOBER strain. If you don’t know who we are – just “Google it.”
As you already know, all of your data has been encrypted by our software.
It cannot be recovered by any means without contacting our team directly.
DON’T TRY TO RECOVER your data by yourselves. Any attempt to recover your data (including the usage of the additional recovery software) can damage your files.
DON’T TRY TO IGNORE us. We’ve downloaded a pack of your internal data and are ready to publish it on our news website if you do not respond.
DON’T TRY TO CONTACT feds or any recovery companies.
We have our informants in these structures, so any of your complaints will be immediately directed to us.
To prove that we REALLY CAN get your data back – we offer you to decrypt two random files completely free of charge.
!!!IMPORTANT!!!
If you can’t use the onion panel, download qTox and create an account.
It is completely anonymous.
Here is the link: https://qtox.github.io/
To start communicating with us click on the ‘+’ at the bottom of the window.
Insert our ID in the ‘Tox ID’ field and click ‘Send friend request’.
TOX ID: 741C2229CA8163B086DE5E15022940BD888982A4EB3E3CEDEE19413385655C3817512911F092
You can contact our team directly for further instructions through our website :
TOR VERSION :
(you should download and install TOR browser first hxxps://torproject.org)
–
YOU SHOULD BE AWARE!
We will speak only with an authorized person. It can be the CEO, top management, etc.
In case you are not such a person – DON’T CONTACT US! Your decisions and action can result in serious harm to your company!
Inform your supervisors and stay calm!
Immediate First Steps After a BOBER Infection
Taking prompt and informed action right after a BOBER attack can mean the difference between full recovery and complete data loss. Here’s what to do:
- Disconnect infected machines from the network to stop further spread.
- Preserve all encrypted files and the ransom note without modifying them.
- Do not reboot or format devices. Restarting may trigger further encryption or eliminate essential metadata.
- Contact professional ransomware recovery teams immediately to guide you through secure mitigation.
Acting swiftly within the first few hours significantly improves the likelihood of full data recovery and containment of the infection.
Options for Recovering BOBER-Encrypted Files
When confronting BOBER ransomware, victims have several recovery paths depending on the variant involved and the availability of backups or tools.
Free Tools That Might Help
While no official decryptor currently exists specifically for BOBER, its roots in CONTI ransomware make certain public tools potentially useful:
- Emsisoft’s CONTI Decryptor: Built during the peak of CONTI attacks, this tool is effective on older strains using leaked keys. If your BOBER sample aligns with these, partial or full recovery might be possible. Always test in a sandbox environment before broader application.
- Avast CONTI Decryptor: Similar to Emsisoft’s tool, this decryptor works with early CONTI variants. Its heuristic engine may detect BOBER patterns if they resemble legacy configurations. Ideal for test recovery on isolated sample files.
Keep in mind: These tools are generally ineffective on BOBER versions using randomized extensions or updated encryption schemas. However, they are worth trying when no other solution is immediately available.
ID Ransomware and NoMoreRansom Analysis Platforms
These platforms don’t offer direct decryptors for BOBER but serve as valuable resources for identification and matching. Uploading encrypted files or ransom notes to platforms like ID Ransomware or NoMoreRansom may connect your sample with similar strains and suggest viable tools.
Restoring from Clean Backups
If your organization maintains off-site, disconnected, or cloud-based backups, this may be your fastest route to recovery. Always validate backup integrity before initiating a restoration. Avoid overwriting original data until you’re certain the infection is contained.
VM Snapshot Rollbacks for Virtual Machines
Organizations running virtual machines can use snapshots taken prior to infection to roll back systems. Ensure snapshot files are secure and untouched before proceeding. This method can provide rapid recovery with minimal technical friction, assuming snapshots are regularly maintained.
Professional Decryption Services (Paid)
For critical environments where public tools fail, professional decryption tools are often the best bet. These tools use sophisticated techniques including:
- Victim ID matching
- Cloud-based AI integrity checks
- Blockchain-style logging for transparency
Engaging with vetted cybersecurity firms ensures safer recovery and reduces the risk of reinfection. Always avoid untrusted recovery tools or underground forums, as they often contain malware or offer counterfeit solutions.
How to Use Our Proprietary BOBER Recovery Tool
To start recovery with our secure decryptor, follow these steps:
- Locate files encrypted with a randomized extension (e.g., .qkfhr) and the ransom note (R3ADM3.txt).
- Ensure the infected device is offline and isolated from the network.
- Submit a copy of the ransom note and encrypted samples to our expert team.
- Run the decryptor using administrator privileges. It will establish a secure connection with our backend.
- Enter the unique victim ID from your ransom note when prompted.
- Allow the tool to analyze and restore encrypted files to their original form.
This entire process maintains file integrity and ensures full visibility through audit trails.
Comparing All Recovery Techniques
Recovery methods can generally be grouped into offline and cloud-based categories:
| Method | Best For | Limitations |
| Backup Restoration | Fully air-gapped or compliant environments | Requires intact backups |
| VM Snapshots | Virtual environments | Snapshot tampering risk |
| Free CONTI Decryptors | Older BOBER variants | Low success rate on newer builds |
| ID Ransomware/NoMoreRansom | Sample identification & matching | No direct decryption |
| Professional Cloud Decryptor | Rapid recovery with expert support | Paid, requires file submission |
Choose your path based on infrastructure, variant age, and file criticality.
Understanding the BOBER Ransomware Threat
BOBER is a dangerous variant of the CONTI ransomware strain. It modifies filenames by appending unique, random strings (e.g., .qkfhr), then distributes a ransom note that demands direct contact while threatening data exposure.
Its tactics are designed to pressure businesses into paying quickly by limiting recovery options and emphasizing reputational damage.
BOBER’s Infection Chain Explained
Understanding how BOBER infiltrates systems and spreads across networks is vital for both mitigation and future prevention. Its infection chain involves several coordinated stages, each utilizing specific tools and techniques.
Entry Vectors and Infection Methods
BOBER often breaches systems through a mix of social engineering and technical vulnerabilities. Here are the most common entry points:
- Phishing Campaigns: Fake emails pretending to be invoices, HR documents, or job offers often carry infected attachments. These attachments may contain malicious macros, executable files, or scripts that silently install the ransomware upon opening.
- Pirated Software and Keygens: A significant number of infections stem from unauthorized downloads of cracked software bundled with malware droppers. These installers often appear functional but carry hidden payloads that execute the ransomware.
- Exploit Kits and Malicious Ads (Malvertising): Victims may be redirected to compromised sites via ads or counterfeit download links. These sites employ exploit kits that scan for unpatched software, vulnerable browser plugins, or outdated operating systems to inject the malware without the user’s knowledge.
Lateral Movement and Privilege Escalation
Once inside, BOBER aims to spread across your infrastructure by leveraging powerful internal reconnaissance and credential theft methods:
- Credential Harvesting with Mimikatz: Attackers run tools like Mimikatz to extract login details from system memory, including domain administrator credentials. This grants them unfettered access to additional machines and sensitive areas of the network.
- Network Scanning Utilities: With software like Advanced IP Scanner or SoftPerfect Network Scanner, attackers map the network, identifying underprotected devices and potential weak points.
These tactics help BOBER move laterally and prepare a broader range of files and systems for encryption.
Tactics for Stealth and Persistence
BOBER doesn’t just act quickly—it also tries to remain undetected while maintaining access:
- Rootkit-Based Loaders: Tools such as PowerTool or misused legitimate programs like Zemana AntiMalware are employed to inject or hide malicious drivers. These drivers help the ransomware stay hidden from antivirus tools and system administrators.
- Remote Administration via Ngrok and AnyDesk: These legitimate tools can be repurposed by attackers to create encrypted communication tunnels or remote control channels, allowing them to return or monitor progress from afar—even after detection.
Exfiltration and File Encryption Process
BOBER takes a hybrid approach to ransomware deployment, focusing both on encryption and exfiltration:
- File Upload Before Encryption: Before locking the files, attackers often exfiltrate data using tools like RClone, FileZilla, or WinSCP. This data may include sensitive company documents, credentials, or customer information.
- Hybrid Encryption Strategy: BOBER uses a two-step encryption technique: ChaCha20 or AES encrypts the file contents quickly, while RSA or ECC encrypts the key to prevent decryption without the attacker’s assistance. This makes reverse engineering exceptionally difficult.
Elimination of Local Recovery Options
BOBER deliberately removes the victim’s ability to restore files using native system tools:
- Volume Shadow Copy Deletion: Commands like vssadmin delete shadows /all /quiet are executed to erase all local backups.
- Recovery Boot Configuration Alteration: System recovery features are disabled to ensure IT teams cannot roll back changes easily.
These steps force organizations to consider external help or engage the attacker directly.
Signs Your System is Compromised by BOBER
BOBER leaves behind several clear markers:
- Files appended with random extensions, like .qkfhr or others, that prevent access.
- Presence of a ransom note, usually named R3ADM3.txt.
- Inability to open standard documents or files behaving unexpectedly.
- Notable system lag or strange network behavior, which may suggest background exfiltration or scanning scripts.
- Missing system restore options or deleted shadow copies.
Recognizing these signs early can help isolate the incident before it spreads further.
Strategies to Prevent Future Infections
Prevention is always more effective than cure. Here’s how to stay protected:
- Use a Secure Email Gateway: Filter malicious emails before they reach inboxes.
- Avoid Downloading Unauthorized Software: Train users to steer clear of cracked applications or unknown sources.
- Maintain Regular Software Updates: Ensure operating systems, browsers, and plugins are patched frequently.
- Isolate Backups: Use offline or immutable backups that are inaccessible from standard user accounts.
- Segment Your Network: Divide systems into logical zones to limit ransomware’s ability to propagate.
- Deploy Modern Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): These tools offer real-time monitoring and automated threat detection.
Building a layered defense makes your organization a less attractive target.
Timeline and Targets of BOBER Attacks
Geographical Reach:
Industries Impacted:
Attack Timeline:
Conclusion
Dealing with BOBER can be daunting, but recovery is achievable with the right tools and fast action. Whether you use isolated backups, revert via snapshots, or choose expert-level decryption, what’s critical is a methodical, informed approach—not a panicked reaction.
Avoid sketchy decryptors or paying cybercriminals. Instead, rely on verified professionals with proven success cases, built-in transparency, and ongoing support.
Time is your most valuable asset—respond quickly and with expert guidance to reclaim your data and restore business continuity.
MedusaLocker Ransomware Versions We Decrypt