Article, designed to help you remove Fluffy-TAR ransomware and hopefully get back files encrypted with the lock75 extension added to them.
A ransomware virus, using the lock75 extension appended immediately after the names of the encrypted files has been detected. The virus is named Fluffy-TAR ransomware and uses the strongest AES cipher possible, the AES-256 to encrypt files on the computers infected by it. After the encryption, the Fluffy virus drops a well-designed ransom note which demands from victims to pay the sum of 0,039 BTC in order for the cyber-criminals behind it to get the files back. In case your computer has been infected by the Fluffy ransomware, recommendations are to read this article carefully.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Lock75 Virus |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using the AES-256 encryption cipher, making direct decryption possible only via a unique symmetric decryption key available to the cyber-criminals. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions” screen, asking to pay approximately 0,039 BTC. Changed file names and the file-extension lock75 has been used. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Lock75 Virus. |
| 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. |
Fluffy lock75 Virus – How Does It Infect
The distribution process of Fluffy ransomware may be performed by utilizing spam e-mail messages to infect user PC’s. Usually such messages are sent via spamming software and spam kits that contain a pre-configured list of victims’ e-mail addresses. The spam messages usually contain deceitful e-mail message within them that aims to lure users into either clicking on a web link or opening the attachment, similar to the example image below:
Such convincing statements may sometimes even include information about your account, such as your name, address and so on. This information is usually gathered from websites to which many victims have registered and left their personal information. Those websites if compromised can reveal multiple different details about users, making them potential victims to Fluffy ransomware’s distributers.
Other forms of spreading this infection is if fake installers of programs, game activation software, license removers and other fake executables may be used on torrent websites via compromised accounts and downloaded by the victim. Also such may be published in suspicious websites or linked towards the user PC as a result of having a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) installed on your computer.
Fluffy Ransomware – Infection Activity
Once Fluffy ransomware has already infected a given computer, the virus may use exploits to drop it’s malicious files while remaining undetected on the victim’s computer. Once this has been done, the Fluffy ransomware infection may begin to connect to the following hosts:
- 185.100.85.150:80 – Romanian
- 192.36.27.5:80 – Swedish
From these hosts, the malicious files of the Fluffy virus may be downloaded onto the computer of the victim. These files may consist of a malicious executable and an image, named as the following:
- Fluffy.exe
- Fluffy.png
Along with these malicious files, Fluffy ransomware may also drop other support files that may perform malicious activity on the compromised computer. One of those activities may be to delete the shadow volume copies on the infected computer – activity achieved by using the following commands:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c
vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no
bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
In addition to this, Fluffy ransomware may also perform multiple other activities amongst which are the interfering of the Windows Registry sub-keys for running programs on system boot and changing the wallpaper:
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop\
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
Fluffy Virus – Encryption Process
The process of encrypting files, encoded by Fluffy ransomware is achieved via utilizing the AES-256 encryption algorithm which encrypts files by replacing blocks of data with the algorithm itself. This makes the files no longer openable and the virus then generates a symmetric decryption key which is then sent to the servers of the cyber-criminals, making them the only one able to decrypt the files.
The encrypted files have the lock75 expansion added to them and may appear like the image below displays:
After the encryption process has been completed, the lock75 ransomware infection may drop it’s ransom note, which contains the following message that leads to the TOR-based web-page 3qsp4lc4ajyk4ccb.onion:
What’s happening?
Oh no! Fluffy-TAR has encrypted some of your files! It means they are not lost, but cannot be used until decrypted.
They are “locked”, you could say. If you see a file which name ends with “lock75”, it means this file is encrypted. The process is easily reversible but requires a key.
What do I do?
To get your files back, you must buy the decryption key. This payment must be done in Bitcoins, a cryptographic currency. Bitcoin is becoming more and more accessible and nowadays, it is really easy to use bitcoins. See the online interface (button below) for a more detailed introduction to bitcoins.
To get your files back, please send exactly (or more if you want) 0.039 Bitcoins to this address, BEFORE the countdown below ends:
1D4yXNh45nur1KVNqnPZ5T7nep5Y1KDbwx
Uppercase/lowercase matter! Make sure you send to the right address! (you can scan the QR code to copy it)
After sending the payment, wait an hour then click the “Retrieve key automatically” button below.
The software will then receive the key and decrypt ALL encrypted files.
Without the key, it is impossible to decrypt your files. Without the proper payment, it is impossible to get the key.
When the countdown reaches zero, you will lose all encrypted documents.
Please note: If you have an antivirus, disable it now if you don’t want to lose your data.
Among the encrypted files are the following file types:
→ .3fr, .7z, .abu, .accdb, .ai, .arp, .arw, .asp, .aspx, .ass, .asset, .ava, .avi,.bas, .bay, .bdcr, .bdcu, .bdd, .bdp, .bds, .bikey, .blend, .bmp, .bpdr, .bpdu, .bsdr, .bsdu, .c, .cc,.cd, .cdr, .cer, .class, .com, .config, .cpp, .cr2, .crt, .crw, .cs, .csv, .cxx, .db, .dbf, .dbx,.dcr, .dd, .dds, .der, .dng, .doc, .docm, .docx, .DTD, .dwg, .dxf, .dxg, .eps, .erf, .fdb, .forge, .gdb,.gif, .groups, .gsd, .gsf, .h, .hpp, .htm, .html, .ims, .indd, .iss, .jar, .java, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg,.js, .jsp, .kdc, .key, .kwm, .lua, .m, .md, .mdb, .mdf, .mef, .mp3, .mpg, .mrw, .msg, .nef,.nrw, .oab, .obj, .odb, .odm, .odp, .ods, .odt, .orf, .ost, .p12, .p7b, .p7c, .pab, .PAS, .pas, .pdb,.pdd, .pdf, .pef, .pem, .pfx, .php, .pl, .png, .ppk, .ppt, .pptm, .pptx, .ps, .psd, .pst, .psw, .ptx, .pwm, .py, .r3d, .raf, .rar, .RAW, .raw, .rgx, .rik, .rm, .rtf, .rw2, .rwl, .safe, .sav, .sln,.sql, .srf, .srw, .swf, .swift, .tex, .txt, .vcf, .vsd, .wb2, .wpd, .wps, .xcf, .xlk, .xls, .xlsb,.xlsm, .xlsx, .xml, .zip
Fluffy lock75 Virus– How to Remove it and Restore Your Files
After the inevitable has happened, the virus advice is to backup the files encrypted by the lock75 ransomware, the first action should be to backup the encrypted data.
Then we recommend following the removal instructions below, which will help you isolate this virus and remove it’s files. In case you feel uncertain in manual removal, recommendations are to focus on removing the encrypted files automatically by using an advanced anti-malware program. Such will ensure that all files and objects associated with Fluffy ransomware are removed from your computer and that future protection is ensured.
After removing Fluffy ransomware, we advise using the methods in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Fluffy” from the instructions below. They may not ensure the recovery of all your files, but via them you can restore at least some of the data.
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: Scan for Lock75 Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Lock75 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Lock75 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 Lock75 Virus 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 Lock75 Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Lock75 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 Lock75 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.
Lock75 Virus-FAQ
What is Lock75 Virus Ransomware?
Lock75 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 Lock75 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 Lock75 Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Lock75 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 Lock75 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 .Lock75 Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Lock75 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 .Lock75 Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Lock75 Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Lock75 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 Lock75 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 Lock75 Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Lock75 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 Lock75 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 Lock75 Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Lock75 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 Lock75 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.