Lsas Virus
Lsas virus – what is it? The virus known as Lsas is a strain of the well-known Dharma ransomware. It has been created and released in the wild to encrypt personal files and demand a ransom from victims. The Lsas virus uses three different extensions to mark files it corrupts. The first suffix is a unique ID number generated for every victim. The second suffix is the email address sekurlsa@ml1.net used by hackers for communicating with victims. And the third is the specific .lsas extension which gives the name .lsas virus files to the threat. At the end of the attack, the ransomware will display a pop-up with a ransom message and create the file FILES ENCRYPTED.txt which contains a shorter ransom message.
Victims of Lsas ransomware virus are advised to refrain from following cybercriminals’ instructions. The most secure way to deal with this computer infection is to remove malicious files and then ensure that the system is protected against additional malicious software. Regarding the .lsas files recovery, we recommend the use of alternative data restore methods that may be relatively effective. Eventually, a free decryption tool may be released too.
Lsas Summary
| Name | Lsas also known as Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom] (Avast), Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E (eScan), Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E (B) (Emsisoft) |
| File Extensions | ID number, email address [sekurlsa@ml1.net], .lsas |
| Ransom Demanding Notes | A pop-up window and a text file named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .lsas extension to them, along with a unique identification number and an email address used by cybercriminals. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Torrent Files/Networks |
| Detection Tool |
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Lsas Ransomware (Dharma) – What Is It and How Does It Infect PCs?
Lsas ransomware infection might run of computer systems via a payload dropper. This dropper will initiate the malicious script for this ransomware and enable it to contaminate essential system settings. The initial infection file for the Lsas virus infection is being spread around the Internet via spam email messages that feature links to hacked sites and file attachments; social media and file-sharing services; freeware that hides the malicious script for the cryptovirus.
The analysis of Lsas virus code states that the ransomware originates from the code of Dharma/CrySiS cryptovirus. Further information reveals that this ransomware virus has been offered for sale on Russian hacking forums for more than a year time. That event led to the release of lots of new variants of the same threat with the latest being WOLF, RZA, TCYO, and Lsas.
As soon as, the Lsas virus runs on a computer system, it creates additional malicious files that support a long complex attack. The sequent activation of those files enables the ransomware to misuse the functionalities of legitimate system components like the Windows Registry.
To achieve persistence, Lsas could enter values under the registry sub-keys Run and RunOnce and start to launch or repress processes in the infected Windows system. The virus could be set to erase all the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system as well. With the help of the command below, the ransomware could eliminate one of the data recovery ways:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
The main goal of Lsas ransomware is to encrypt files that store important personal information. All encrypted will receive three extensions. For example, the file photo.jpg may appear as photo.jpg.id-3F327L00.[sekurlsa@ml1.net].lsas when encrypted by the threat. Audio, video, image files as well as documents, backups and banking data can be encrypted by the ransomware.
Following data corruption, Lsas cryptovirus shows a pop-up ransomware note. It says the following:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail sekurlsa@ml1.net
Write this ID in the title of your message 1E857D00
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails:sekurlsa@mm.st
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
Another ransom message stored by a text document, called FILES ENCRYPTED.txt, states:
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
Write email sekurlsa@ml1.net or sekurlsa@mm.st
The extortionists want you to pay a ransom for the alleged restoration of your .lsas files. Still, this is not a sensible option. Cybercriminals are not people who can be trusted.
If your computer device was infected with Lsas Dharma ransomware and your files are locked, read on through to find out how you could secure the infected machine and how to potentially restore your files.
Remove Lsas Virus (Dharma Ransomware)
If your computer got infected with the Lsas virus, you should be experienced in removing malware manually. You should get rid of this ransomware as fast as possible before it grab the chance to spread further and infect more machines connected to the same network. You should remove the ransomware and follow the easy-to-follow steps below.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for Lsas with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Lsas 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 Lsas 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 Lsas 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 Lsas
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Lsas.
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 Lsas 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.
Lsas-FAQ
What is Lsas Ransomware?
Lsas 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 Lsas 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 Lsas Infect?
Via several ways.Lsas 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 Lsas 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 .Lsas files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Lsas 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 .Lsas files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Lsas" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Lsas 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 Lsas 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 Lsas ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Lsas 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 Lsas 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 Lsas Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Lsas 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 Lsas 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.
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