How to remove MAJINAHANASHI virus

What kind of malware is MAJINAHANASHI?

MAJINAHANASHI is ransomware our researchers discovered while examining new malware samples submitted to VirusTotal. It encrypts files, appends the .majin extension to their names, and drops a ransom note in a text file named README.txt. The attackers also claim to have stolen a copy of the victim's data during the attack.

On our test machine, this ransomware encrypted files and appended the .majin extension to each filename. A file originally named 1.jpg became 1.jpg.majin, 2.png became 2.png.majin, and so on. Afterward, MAJINAHANASHI created a ransom note in a text file titled README.txt.

Screenshot of files encrypted by MAJINAHANASHI ransomware:

MAJINAHANASHI ransom note overview

The README.txt file states that victims' files were encrypted using a unique key per file, all wrapped under an offline key that remains with the attackers. It also notes that shadow copies and backups were deliberately removed to prevent easy recovery.

The note further claims that a copy of the victim's internal data was extracted during the attack. According to the note, if an agreement is reached, all stolen copies will be destroyed and written confirmation provided. If no deal is made, they state the data will be passed on to other parties.

Victims are directed to contact the attackers via qTOX or by email at cyclops_fa**ot@proton.me, citing the assigned case ID (CD42A401). As proof that decryption is possible, they offer to restore two files free of charge. The note also warns victims against involving intermediaries, recovery consultants, or law enforcement.

A seven-day deadline is imposed. On day seven, the attackers state they will release the full dataset publicly and notify regulators, clients, and affected parties directly. A Tor-based disclosure site address is also listed in the note.

More about MAJINAHANASHI

Recovering files encrypted by ransomware is rarely possible without the attackers' cooperation. The exceptions are cases where the program itself has serious coding flaws - weak encryption or improper key handling - that allow researchers to build a free decryption tool.

Paying the ransom is not recommended. Cybercriminals frequently fail to provide a working decryption tool after receiving payment. In cases involving data theft like this one, there is also no way to verify that the stolen information will actually be deleted.

Removing MAJINAHANASHI from an infected system is necessary to stop further file encryption. That said, removal does not restore files that have already been locked. The only way to recover without paying is to have a clean backup stored outside the infected environment.

It is best to keep backups in multiple locations - for example, an unplugged external drive and a remote server. Backups stored on the same local network as the infected machine can be reached and encrypted just like any other file.

Ransomware in general

Ransomware attacks exist to extort money. The method is straightforward: lock a victim's files and demand payment for the key. We have analyzed thousands of programs like this, and while they all share that same goal, they differ in the symmetric or asymmetric encryption algorithms they use and the ransom amounts demanded.

Additional ransomware examples are FLocker, ZAWOOO, and Montage. Although these programs differ in technical detail, the end result is always the same: files become inaccessible and the attacker demands payment.

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Ransomware is most often distributed through phishing emails with malicious attachments or embedded links. These messages are designed to look legitimate, tricking the recipient into opening a file or visiting a page that silently deploys the malware.

Other common delivery methods include trojans, fake software updates, malicious files passed off as cracks or keygens, and unsafe downloads from file-sharing sites or torrent networks.

File types frequently used to carry ransomware payloads include executables, compressed archives, Microsoft Office documents with malicious macros, JavaScript files, and PDFs. Pirated software is also a regular infection source.

How to protect yourself from ransomware infections?

To lower the risk of ransomware infection, practice caution while browsing and handling email. Do not open attachments or follow links in unsolicited messages. Only download software from official or verified sources, and avoid pirated programs and illegal activation tools.

Keeping all software up to date and having a reputable security tool installed adds another layer of protection. If your computer is already infected with MAJINAHANASHI, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Screenshot of MAJINAHANASHI's text file ("README.txt"):

Text presented in this text file:

MAJINAHANASHI

We entered. We looked around. We took what was there.

This is the report.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

WHAT WE DID

Files were encrypted where they sat. A unique key per file, wrapped under an offline key that leaves with us when this is over. Backups and shadow copies were removed because they get in the way.

No files were deleted. No data was corrupted. Every byte can be recovered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

WHAT WE TOOK

A copy of your internal data was extracted during the process. This is not a threat - it is a statement of fact. We have it. You do not.

If an agreement is reached, all copies are destroyed and you receive written confirmation. If no agreement is reached, the data finds new owners.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEXT MOVE

Contact us via qTOX: [qTOX ID]
Contact us via EMAIL: cyclops_fa**ot@proton.me
Case: CD42A401

Download qTOX: [URL]

Send 2 files. We decrypt them. This is not a negotiation tactic - it is verification that we hold the keys and that recovery is possible. Once you have proof, we talk.

No intermediaries. No recovery consultants. No law enforcement liaison. Every person you add to this conversation is another person who knows what happened here.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

TIMELINE

Day 7 - the full dataset is released. Regulators, clients, and affected parties are notified directly.

Disclosure site (Tor): [Tor URL]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

This message is your copy. We do not send reminders.

Screenshot of MAJINAHANASHI ransomware's data leaking site in Tor network:

MAJINAHANASHI ransomware removal:

Instant automatic malware removal:

Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT 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:

By 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. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by RCS LT, the parent company of PCRisk.com.

Video suggesting what steps should be taken in case of a ransomware infection:

Quick menu:

• What is MAJINAHANASHI virus?
• 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How was my computer hacked and how did hackers encrypt my files?

Ransomware is commonly spread through phishing emails, infected email attachments, pirated software, fake updates, and downloads from unsafe sources. In many cases, victims run the ransomware themselves without realizing it, as malicious files are often disguised as ordinary software or documents.

How to open ".majin" files?

Files with the .majin extension have been encrypted by MAJINAHANASHI and cannot be opened or used without a decryption tool - which only the attackers currently hold.

Where should I look for free decryption tools for MAJINAHANASHI ransomware?

If you have been affected by a ransomware attack, we recommend checking the No More Ransom project website (more information above).

I can pay you a lot of money, can you decrypt files for me?

We do not provide decryption services. In most cases, files locked by ransomware cannot be restored without the attackers' tools, unless serious flaws exist in the ransomware itself. Third-party paid decryption offers are usually scams or act as middlemen between victims and cybercriminals.

Will Combo Cleaner help me remove MAJINAHANASHI ransomware?

Combo Cleaner can scan your computer and remove MAJINAHANASHI from an infected system. It cannot, however, decrypt files that have already been locked - antivirus tools can eliminate the malware but are not able to reverse the encryption it has applied.