This article will aid you to remove .a800 Ransomware. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
.a800 Ransomware is one that encrypts your data and demands money as a ransom to get it restored. Files will receive the .a800 extension. The .a800 Ransomware will leave ransomware instructions as a desktop wallpaper image. Keep on reading the article and see how you could try to potentially recover some of your locked files and data.
Threat Summary
| Name | .а800 Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files by placing the .a800 extension on the target files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and leave a ransom note with payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .а800 Ransomware. |
| 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. |
.a800 Ransomware – Distribution Techniques
The .a800 ransomware threat is a new sample release of the RotorCrypt malware family. It is designed to be distributed via different methods. We presume that the most popular ones are going to be used.
One of the most popular mechanisms is the coordination of email SPAM messages which aim to create impersonating letters that appear as being sent by legitimate and well-known companies, services and products. The recipients may receive messages that have the same design elements as the original emails. Using the stolen content the .a800 ransomware infections can happen when interacting with any one of them — banners, links, images, videos and etc. In some cases the virus files themselves can be directly attached to the messages.
The other popular strategy is to craft malicious web pages that pose as legitimate web sites that end users may frequently visit. This includes the likes of download portals, search engines, product landing pages and etc. As soon as they are opened links to the virus files may be presented either directly or through any of the posted content.
Most of the virus infections of this type are delivered via payload carriers of which there are two main types:
- Infected Documents — Dangerous macros that will trigger the ransomware infection can be embedded across all popular document formats: spreadsheets, text documents, presentations and databases. When such a file is opened the users may see prompt that asks them to enable the necessary scripts. The quoted reason is to enable the correct viewing of the file’s contents. As soon as the scripts are enabled the .a800 ransomware will be deployed to the infected machines.
- Application Installers — The other main type of payload delivery is the creation of infected software installers which are made by taking the legitimate files from their official sources and adding in the necessary code. The hackers will typically choose popular applications that the end users typically download: creativity suites, productivity and office apps, system utilities and even computer games.
The .a800 ransomware files can be spread on file-sharing networks as well which include BitTorrent. They are a popular outlet for serving both pirate and legitimate content, often the dangerous payloads are found there.
Large-scale infections can be caused by the use of browser hijackers. They are malicious plugins which are developed to be compatible with all of the popular web browsers. Most of them are uploaded to the relevant repositories using fake user reviews and developer credentials. The posted descriptions that advertise the plugins usually contain promises of new feature additions and performance optimizations. However as soon as they are installed not only the .a800 ransomware can be deployed, but also other major changes can occur. A popular strategy is to cause a redirect to a specific hacker-controlled page. This is made by changing the web browser settings: the home page, search engine and new tabs page. As this option depends on access to the browser it allows the criminals to also hijack data such as cookies, history, bookmarks and etc.
.a800 Ransomware – Detailed Analysis
The .a800 ransomware is a confirmed sample belonging to the RotorCrypt malware family. This is a well-known group of viruses that are known for assigning long extensions to the affected data and for having a modular framework allowing for various modules to be run in a succession or according to certain event triggers.
At the moment there is no information about the hacker collective behind the virus. We presume that this may be a non-experienced group as the RotorCrypt family of threats can be easily customizable. Customization services are widely available upon request on the dark web.
A complete code analysis was done on the collected samples showing that they are capable of interacting with the Windows operating system. An example is the removal of sensitive data — backups, shadow volume copies and restore points. This makes it very difficult to restore the infected systems without using a professional-grade data recovery solution.
The code analysis also shows that a persistent installation is made — this ensures that the .a800 ransomware engine will be started automatically when the computer is powered on. This disables access to the recovery boot menus which renders most manual user removal guides useless. In this case only the use of a quality anti-spyware utility can effectively remedy the infection.
Future releases might include other malicious actions as well:
- Information Harvesting — The .a800 ransomware can be configured to extract data from the infected computers that can reveal the identity of the victim users. This is done by programming the engine to look for specific strings in files data: a person’s name, address, interests and any stored account credentials.
- Machine ID Generation — An unique ID can be generated for every single infected computer. This is done by an algorithm that takes its input values from data sources such as the installed hardware components, user settings and operating system conditions.
- Additional Payload Delivery — Existing ransomware infections are useful for installing other threats including Trojans and miners.
- Windows Registry Changes — Many viruses have the ability to create, edit and remove strings from the Windows Registry. This can lead to very serious performance issues to the point of rendering the computers completely unusable. Changes to certain values can cause application errors, loss of data and unexpected behavior.
Users should know that .a800 ransomware virus files have the ability to hook up to existing processes and create ones of their own.
.a800 Ransomware – Encryption Process
Like other popular malware samples the .a800 ransomware will launch the encryption engine once all prior modules have finished running. It will probably use a built-in list of target file type extensions which are to be processed by a strong cipher. An example list can include the following data types:
- Backups
- Databases
- Archives
- Images
- Music
- Videos
All affected files are renamed with the .a800 extension. A ransomware note will be produced in a text file called “recovery.instruction.txt” which reads the following:
Remove .a800 Ransomware and Try to Restore Data
If your computer system got infected with the .a800 ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for .а800 Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .а800 Ransomware 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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.
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 .а800 Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .а800 Ransomware.
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:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
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 .а800 Ransomware 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.
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.
.а800 Ransomware-FAQ
What is .а800 Ransomware Ransomware?
.а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware 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 ..а800 Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..а800 Ransomware 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 ..а800 Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..а800 Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .а800 Ransomware 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 .а800 Ransomware 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.
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