Tfude Ransomware

Also Known As: Tfude virus
Distribution: Moderate
Damage level: Severe

Tfude ransomware removal instructions

What is Tfude?

Discovered by Michael Gillespie, Tfude is classified as a ransomware-type computer infection. This malicious program is a new variant of Djvu ransomware. Like most viruses of this type, it affects systems by encrypting stored data (blocking access to it) and keeping it in this state until victims purchase a decryption tool (in effect, pay a ransom). The virus renames all encrypted files by adding the ".tfude" extension (updated versions use ".tfudet"). For example, "1.jpg" becomes "1.jpg.tfude". It also generates a ransom message within a text file called "_openme.txt" and disables Task Manager. During encryption, Tfude displays a fake Windows Update pop-up window.

In the "_openme.txt" ransom-demand message, cyber criminals state that all files (photos, documents, databases, and so on) are encrypted with the strongest encryption algorithm. The only way to retrieve files is to purchase a decryption tool, a unique decryption key. As 'proof' that Tfude ransomware developers have the tool required, they offer free decryption of one file (that does not contain any valuable information). Furthermore, they even offer a 50% discount for victims who contact them within 72 hours following encryption. Therefore, the size of the ransom depends on how quickly cyber criminals are contacted. To receive further details, victims are encouraged to contact them via the or email addresses. The email must contain the assigned personal ID. Tfude's victims are also warned not to use any other (third party) decryption tools, since this might result in permanent data loss. Typically, cyber criminals use cryptography algorithms (symmetric or asymmetric) that generate unique decryption keys. They store these keys on remote servers and only they have access to them. In summary, decryption without the involvement of cyber criminals is impossible, since they have the tools required for successful decryption. There are currently no tools capable of decrypting Tfude's encryption free of charge. Therefore, use an existing data backup if you have one, and restore files from there.


Tfude decrypt instructions

Pdff, XARCryptor, and Ahihi are ransomware-type infections that are very similar to Tfude. There are many others. Cyber criminals often use these programs to encrypt data and make ransom demands. Typically, the main differences are encryption algorithm used and cost of decryption tool/key. Unfortunately, ransomware developers use cryptographies that cannot be 'cracked'. People with computers infected by these viruses are encouraged to contact cyber criminals. In some cases, malicious programs of this type are not fully developed, have some bugs/flaws, etc. and, therefore, files can sometimes be retrieved. In any case, to prevent data loss, we recommend that you maintain regular backups and store them on remote servers or unplugged storage devices, otherwise backups will be encrypted with other data.

How did ransomware infect my computer?

There are several ways that cyber criminals use to infect computers with ransomware-type viruses including spam email campaigns, fake software updaters, dubious software download sources, and trojans. Email campaigns proliferate ransomware (or other infections) through malicious attachments. Once opened, these attachments download and install malware. They are usually Microsoft Office documents, archive or executable files, PDF documents, and so on. Fake software updaters tools usually infect systems by exploiting flaws/bugs of outdated software or download (and install) viruses rather than the promised updates or fixes. Dubious software download channels such as P2P networks (torrents, eMule, etc.), freeware download websites, free file hosting websites, and other similar sources present malicious executables as legitimate files. Using these tools, cyber criminals trick users into downloading and installing viruses rather than the expected software. Trojans (malicious programs) proliferate other viruses, thus causing chain-infections. If a trojan installed, it is possible that it also caused a ransomware-type virus.

Threat Summary:
NameTfude virus
Threat TypeRansomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker

To eliminate Tfude virus our malware researchers recommend scanning your computer with Spyhunter.
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How to protect yourself from ransomware infections?

To avoid computer infections, be very cautious when browsing the web, installing/downloading and updating software. Avoid opening attachments presented in irrelevant emails. If the attachment is presented in an email sent from an unknown, suspicious email address, ignore it and do not open it. The same applies to web links. Keep software updated, however, use implemented functions or tools provided by official developers only. Do not download software from untrustworthy and unofficial websites, or using third party downloaders. Third party download/installation set-ups often contain rogue software that might cause infections (or other problems). Finally, have reputable anti-spyware/anti-virus software installed and keep it enabled. If your computer is already infected with Tfude, we recommend running a scan with Spyhunter for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Text presented in Tfude ransomware text file ("_openme.txt"):


Don't worry, you can return all your files!
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees do we give to you?
Don't try to use third-party decrypt tools because it will destroy your files.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours.



Reserve e-mail address to contact us:

Your personal ID:

Screenshot of a fake Windows Update pop-up window that appears during the encryption process:

fake windows update pop-up window appearing during Tfude encryption

Screenshot of files encrypted by Tfude (".tfudeextension):

Files encrypted by Tfude

Update January 17, 2019 - Michael Gillespie has updated STOPDecrypter, which is now capable of restoring data with the following extensions: ".djvu", ".djvuq", ".djvur", ".djvut", ".djvuu", ".pdff", ".tfude", ".tfudeq", ".tro", ".udjvu", and ".tfudet". You can download the decrypter by clicking this link.

Screenshot of the STOPDecrypter:

STOPDecrypter by Michael Gillespie

Michael states that users should take the following notes:

This decrypter currently only works for personal ID 6se9RaIxXF9m70zWmx7nL3bVRp691w4SNY8UCir0 (the offline key used if the malware failed to get a key from its server), or if you have the key.

If you were provided a key by kNN or myself, you may enter it via the Settings -> Set Djvu Key option; note that entering anything incorrect to this will destroy data, so don't try to be "clever". For "Personal ID", it will accept either the 40 character string at the end of files (not the one in braces, the string just before that), or the 43 character string in the ransom note. The bruteforcer will also explicitly reject this variant, as there is no way of bruteforcing the key at the present time; so don't even waste your time trying to fool it (the feature is for the .puma* variants, and isn't really a "bruteforce" anyways).

The decrypter will only attempt to decrypt a file with a known ID (either the hardcoded one or one you provide with a key); any others will be reported and logged, with instructions to archive it in hopes of future decryption.

If the decrypter detects IDs it could not decrypt, it will display them, along with your MAC addresses for easy archiving (assuming it is ran from the infected PC). It is also logged for you.

Tfude ransomware removal:

Instant automatic removal of Tfude virus: Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Spyhunter is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Tfude virus. Download it by clicking the button below:

Quick menu:

Step 1


Safe Mode with Networking



Windows 8 Safe Mode with networking



windows 10 safe mode with networking


Step 2

Log in to the account infected with the Tfude virus. Start your Internet browser and download a legitimate anti-spyware program. Update the anti-spyware software and start a full system scan. Remove all entries detected.




Boot your computer in Safe Mode with Command Prompt


system restore using command prompt type cd restore


system restore using command prompt rstrui.exe

4. In the opened window, click "Next".

restore system files and settings

5. Select one of the available Restore Points and click "Next" (this will restore your computer system to an earlier time and date, prior to the Tfude ransomware virus infiltrating your PC).

select a restore point

6. In the opened window, click "Yes".

run system restore

7. After restoring your computer to a previous date, download and scan your PC with recommended malware removal software to eliminate any remaining Tfude ransomware files.

To restore individual files encrypted by this ransomware, try using Windows Previous Versions feature. This method is only effective if the System Restore function was enabled on an infected operating system. Note that some variants of Tfude are known to remove Shadow Volume Copies of the files, so this method may not work on all computers.


Restoring files encrypted by CryptoDefense


To regain control of the files encrypted by Tfude, you can also try using a program called Shadow Explorer. More information on how to use this program is available here.

shadow explorer screenshot



Controll Folder Access



hitmanproalert ransomware prevention application


malwarebytes anti-ransomware


Other tools known to remove Tfude ransomware:

About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.




Removal Instructions in other languages
Malware activity

Global virus and spyware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

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Tfude virus QR code
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Platform: Windows

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