Bowd is a type of ransomware that encrypts data on the infected computer and demands a ransom for decryption1234.
Bowd is one of the Djvu or STOP ransomware variants that use a combination of AES and RSA encryption algorithms1234.
Bowd appends its extension (“.bowd”) to filenames and drops a ransom note (the “_readme.txt” file) that instructs victims to contact the attackers via email and pay $980 or $490 in Bitcoin within 72 hours1234.
Bowd can be removed by using anti-malware software such as Malwarebytes, HitmanPro, Emsisoft Emergency Kit, etc. in Safe Mode with Networking2. However, this does not guarantee the recovery of encrypted files.
Bowd may be decrypted by using a free tool developed by Emsisoft if it was encrypted with an offline key[^5]. Otherwise, there is no reliable way to decrypt files without paying the ransom.
I hope this helps you understand more about Bowd malware. Stay safe!
