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Remove SNS Locker and Restore .RSNSLocked AES-256 Files

SNSLocker-Wallpaper-sensorstechforum2Malware researchers have discovered a new ransomware, calling itself SNS Locker. The new enciphering malware encrypts files with .RSNSLocked file extension and uses a strong AES-256 encryption algorithm to encode a wide variety of files on the compromised computer. The ransomware then changes the wallpaper of the user with a random scary pic, notifying him to pay money to get his files back. The ransomware asks for 0.66 bitcoins which are approximately 300$.

Threat Summary

Name SNS Locker
Type Ransomware
Short Description The ransomware encrypts files with the RSA algorithm and AES cipher and asks a ransom for decryption.
Symptoms Files are encrypted and become inaccessible. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as Wallpaper and a notification window.
Distribution Method Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks.
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User Experience Join our forum to Discuss SNS Locker.
Data Recovery Tool Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive.

SNS Locker – Distribution

Malware researcher Mosh at Nyxbone.com has researched the ransomware and has established that In order to be successfully distributed out into the open SNS Locker is believed to be spread out via an SNS Locker.exe and SNSLOcker2.exe files with the following parameters:

→ “File name: SNSLocker.exe / Size: 635.0 KB / VT
MD5: c3cd8168f96e89998cab52b436c24b7d
SHA1: 3cbe96abba5269eb69093ebc07dd82e3091f0d3d
SHA256: 503b7d7a1348c3f03c789a5faca481bcd340e9be7cc602175fcbe513e864ffb8
FileName: SNSLOcker2.exe / Size: 796.0 KB / VT MD5: 3a27b49845a3ae4671fa69c2051c2cb6 SHA1: 71caed58a603d1ab2a52d02e0822b1ab8f1a9095 SHA256: 597a14a76fc4d6315afa877ef87b68401de45d852e38f98c2f43986b4dca1c3a”Source: Nyxbone.com

This executable may assume different names to be undetected manually, for example:

  • {random name}.exe
  • Svchost.exe
  • Notepad.exe
  • Your Confirmation.exe
  • Receipt.exe

It may be spread out via game cracks, other keygens, activators, malicious email messages sent out as spam and even by malicious links that have come up as a result of an adware causing redirects to them, such as DNS Unlocker, for example.

SNS Locker Ransomware In Detail

Researchers at Nyxbone blog have established that the SNS Locker ransomware heavily modifies the computers it infects. For starters, once executed, the ransomware connects to the following C&C(Command and Control) IP address:

→ 5.9.82.18

The address appears to be based in Germany, and after SNS Locker connects to it, it immediately sends the following information from the infected computer:

  • Customly generated 8 character ID of the victim. (For example – yas9yc92)
  • Machine name.
  • Username.
  • Public IP address.
  • MAC Address.
  • Date.

The ransomware then begins to encrypt the files of the infected computer. It is reported to look for the following file types to encode:

→ .1pa, .3dm, .3g2, .3gp, .aaf, .accdb, .aep, .aepx, .aet, .ai, .ai, .aif, .aif, .as, .as3, .asf, .asp, .asx, .avi, .bik, .bmp , .c, .cal, .cdr, .cdt, .cdx, .cgn, .class, .clk, .cmx, .cnt, .cpp, .cpt, .cpx, .cs, .csl, .csv, .cur, .dat, .db, .dbf, .des, .des, .doc, .docb, .docm, .docx, .dot, .dotm, .dotx, .drw, .ds4, .dsf, .dwg, .dwg, .dxf, .efx, .eps, .eps, .fim, .fla, .flv, .fmv, .fpx, .fpx, .fx0, .fx1, .fxr, .gem, .gif, .gif, .h, .idml, .iff, .iif , .img, .indb, .indd, .indl, .indt, .ini, .inx, .iso, .jar, .java, .jpeg, .jpg”, .js, .lgb, .m3u, .m3u8, .m4u, .mac, .max, .mdb, .met, .mid, .mov, .mp3, .mp4, .mpa, .mpeg, .mpg, .msg, .mx0, .nap, .nd, .pat, .pcd, .pct, .pcx, .pdb, .pdf, .pfb, .php, .pic, .plb, .plt, .pmd, .png, .pot, .potm, .potx, .pp4, .pp5, .ppam, .ppf, .ppj, .pps, .ppsm, .ppsx, .ppt, .ppt, .pptm, .pptx, .prel, .prn, .prn, .prproj, .ps, .ps, .ps, .psd, .psp, .ptb, .py, .qba, .qbb, .qbi, .qbm, .qbo, .qbp, .qbr , .qbw, .qbx, .qby , .qpd, .qsm, .qss, .qst, .qwc, .ra, .rar .raw, .raw, .rb, .rif, .rtf, .rtp, .sct, .sdf, .ses, .set, .shw, .sldm, .sldx, .sql, .svg, .svg, .swf, .swf, .tga, .tif, .tiff, .tlg, .tlg, .ttf, .txt, .txt, .txt, .v30, .vcf, .vob, .vsd, .vsd, .wav, .wav, .webm, .wi, .wk3, .wk4, .wma, .wmf, .wmv, .wpd, .wpd, .wpg, .wps, .xcf, .xla, .xlam, .xll, .xlm, .xls, .xls, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xlsx, .xlt, .xltm, .xltx, .xlw, .xml, .xpm, .xqx, .xqx, .zip Source:Nyxbone

The discovered files are encoded immediately with two of the most powerful ciphers in the world:

  • AES cipher to encrypt the files on the compromised computer.
  • RSA algorithm to encode the public AES key which is being sent to the criminals’ IP address.

The malicious software then changes the wallpaper image of the victim user to a terrifying picture, that may look like the following:

SNSLocker-Wallpaper-sensorstechforumSource:Nyxbone

After this has been done, SNS Locker may automatically open a window with the ransom note and a method to decrypt the files by paying in BitCoin. It looks like the following:

SNSLocker-Ransom-note-sensorstechforumSource:Nyxbone

SNS Locker also shows the user his own unique identification number which is most likely made to help the cyber-criminals identify multiple devices easily. Along with the number there is a button which may directly transfer the user to a payment page:

SNSLocker-unique-ID-sensorstechforumSource:Nyxbone

The payment page is rather simply created. It features the bitcoin address of the cyber-criminals in an electronic invoice which the user can pay online, from distance:

SNSLocker-payment-page-sensorstechforumSource:Nyxbone

After the funds have been paid, the user may receive a link from the malicious domain of the cyber-criminals where he or she can find his private and public keys and click on the “Decypher” button to decrypt them:

decypher-sensorstechforum-snslocker

SNS Locker – Conclusion, Removal, and Decryption Alternatives

The bottom line for SNS Locker is that it is basically a highly sophisticated ransomware which aims to basify the payment method for infected users, by being more “user-friendly”. This is a very effective method and it may have already made the cyber-criminals behind SNS Locker a lot of money. Despite that, malware researchers strongly advise hopeless users NOT to pay any ransom money due to the following possibilities:

  • You fund the cyber-crooks to infect even more computers.
  • You may not get your files back 100%.

To remove this ransomware effectively from your computer, we advise following the Manual or Automatic removal steps below. Experts also advise downloading a reputable anti-malware program which will automatically take care of the SNS Locker files for you.

Regarding file restoration, be advised that we have prepared some alternative methods in step “3” below that you may try while we investigate any decrypters which are publicly released and working. As soon as there is a solution, expect an update on this article’s web page.

Ventsislav Krastev

Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.

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  • Step 1
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Step 4
  • Step 5

Step 1: Scan for SNS Locker with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.


It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.


2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 2


3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 3


4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 4

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide

Step 2: Uninstall SNS Locker and related malware from Windows

Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:


1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.
delete ransomware from windows step 1


2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.
delete ransomware from windows step 2


3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"
delete ransomware from windows step 3Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.


Step 3: Clean any registries, created by SNS Locker on your computer.

The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:

  • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
  • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
  • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
  • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce

You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by SNS Locker there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.
delete ransomware virus registries step 1


2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.
delete ransomware virus registries step 2


3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.
delete ransomware virus registries step 3 Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.

IMPORTANT!
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.

Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove SNS Locker

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!
We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows Key + R.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 1


2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 2


3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".
remove ransomware in safe mode step 3
Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.


4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 4


5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 5


Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by SNS Locker.

Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.

Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.

Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:

1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:

stop ransomware decryptor step 1

2. Agree with the license terms:

stop ransomware decryptor step 2

3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:

stop ransomware decryptor step 3

4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.

stop ransomware decryptor step 4

Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.

Method 2: Use data recovery software

Ransomware infections and SNS Locker aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.

1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.


SNS Locker-FAQ

What is SNS Locker Ransomware?

SNS Locker is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files. 

Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.

What Does SNS Locker Ransomware Do?

Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.

Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.

How Does SNS Locker Infect?

Via several ways.SNS Locker Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.

Another way you may become a victim of SNS Locker is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.

How to Open .SNS Locker files?

You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .SNS Locker files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.

What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?

Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .SNS Locker files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

Can I Restore ".SNS Locker" Files?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .SNS Locker files. 

These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.

How To Get Rid of SNS Locker Virus?

The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.

It will scan for and locate SNS Locker ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .SNS Locker files.

Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?

In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.

Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:

Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:

Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei

United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre

United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police

France - Ministère de l'Intérieur

Italy - Polizia Di Stato

Spain - Policía Nacional

Netherlands - Politie

Poland - Policja

Portugal - Polícia Judiciária

Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)

India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell

Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center

Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.

Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?

Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.

Can SNS Locker Ransomware Steal Your Data?

Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.

In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.

Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?

Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.

Should I Pay Ransomware?

No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.

What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?

If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.

Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?

Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.

It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.

Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?

Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.

About the SNS Locker Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this SNS Locker how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.


How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?

Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.

Furthermore, the research behind the SNS Locker ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.

To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.


As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.

How to recognize trustworthy sources:

  • Always check "About Us" web page.
  • Profile of the content creator.
  • Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
  • Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.

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