What Is SparkLocker Virus?
Problems with SparkLocker Virus? Read this article as we will explain here how to get rid of it. SparkLocker is a type of ransomware that takes over your personal files by encrypting them, then demands a ransom fee to restore access. It usually infects devices when people interact with suspicious emails. It can also enter silently through hidden code or bundled applications, making early detection difficult.
Once inside your system, the malware blocks access to your data and displays a ransom message titled OPENME.txt. Your affected files will now have a .spark file extension. Our research shows that the most common infection sources are spam messages, pirated programs, and visiting unsafe websites. The virus uses advanced encryption to trap your files. We strongly advise against paying the ransom since it doesn’t guarantee recovery. It’s better to fully remove the threat and explore recovery options. Use our removal instructions below to clean your device.
SparkLocker Ransomware Virus – Details
File Extension | .spark |
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 SparkLocker Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending a random name extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | README.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
See If Your Mac Has Been Affected by SparkLocker Virus
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Malware Removal Tool
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How Did I Get Infected?
Your computer might get the SparkLocker Virus through:
- Opening emails with infected files or clicking risky links from unknown senders.
- Using hacked software or downloading from shady sites.
SparkLocker Virus – What Does It Do?
This ransomware encrypts your files, locking you out of your own data. It targets many file formats and may even collect sensitive info before encryption happens. It then demands that you pay a fee using cryptocurrency to unlock your files.
The virus connects to outside servers, which can expose your system to more harmful malware. It also creates and stores malicious files in several system folders such as:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
To keep itself running, it edits entries in the Windows Registry so it can start every time you reboot your PC.
The ransom demand is usually shown in a file named OPENME.txt, which contains the hacker’s instructions:
SPARKLOCKER RANSOMWARE
Ooops. All of your files have been encrypted! Your Videos, Photos, Documents, Applications, etc.
If you ever want to access your files again. Then you must purchase our unique decryption software built
for SparkLocker Ransomware.To purchase your decryption software and restore your files.
Please download the TOR browser at hxxps://torproject.org/.
Visit one of our three darknet sites listed below:–
–
–
Once your connected to our servers. Kindly follow the instructions listed
and send $5000 USD worth of bitcoin to the address listed on the site.After you’ve payed. Send a screenshot of the transaction to the email that you got
SparkLocker Ransomware from. We will then send you the decryption software to restore your files.We thank you for your cooperation.
Best Regards
SparkLocker
Sometimes the criminals offer to unlock a few non-critical files (smaller than 5MB and not databases) to prove they can do it.
What Are .spark Encrypted Files?
Files with the .spark extension have been encrypted using strong cryptographic methods. These attacks often target:
- Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.)
- Audio files (.mp3, .wav, etc.)
- Pictures (.jpg, .png, etc.)
- Archives (.zip, .rar, etc.)
- Documents (.docx, .pptx, etc.)
- Other frequently used files.
Only the hackers possess the special key needed to decrypt these files. A file name might change like this:
Example.jpg.spark
How to Remove SparkLocker Virus
To wipe out the SparkLocker Virus, it’s best to run a deep scan using a reliable anti-malware program. Manual removal is risky unless you’re skilled in malware analysis. Trusted security software can help detect and safely eliminate this infection from your system.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for SparkLocker Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall SparkLocker Virus 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:



Step 3: Clean any registries, created by SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:



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 SparkLocker Virus





Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by SparkLocker Virus.
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 SparkLocker Virus 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.
SparkLocker Virus-FAQ
What is SparkLocker Virus Ransomware?
SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus Infect?
Via several ways.SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus 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 .SparkLocker Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .SparkLocker Virus 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 .SparkLocker Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".SparkLocker Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this SparkLocker Virus 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 SparkLocker Virus 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.