New ransomware sample has been discovered by security researchers. It is given the name SnakeLocker and appears to be in development. The threat is associated with two malicious extensions .snake and .TGIF that rename corrupted files. The .snake .TGIF file virus aims to encrypt valuable data stored on the infected PC and then blackmail victims into paying 0.1 BTC ransom for the data decryption key. Once the threat finishes the encryption process, it displays a ransom message on the PC screen. The note is stored in the file INSTRUCTIONS-README.html and urges victims to pay the ransom.
This article is created to help infected users with the SnakeLocker ransomware removal. In the detailed instructions below you can also find .snake .TGIF file recovery tips.
Threat Summary
| Name | .snake .TGIF |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts the files on your computer, renames them with .snake or .TGIF file extension and demands 0.1 BTC ransom for the decryption. |
| Symptoms | Displays a ransom note on the PC screen, corrupts files so they may no longer be openable. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .snake .TGIF. |
| 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. |
Distribution of .snake .TGIF File Virus
The .snake .TGIF file virus authors use various delivery techniques, and spam emails with malicious attachments appear to be a preferred one. Infected file attachments can trick users into opening them and infect their systems with SnakeLocker ransomware. Another way of distribution is suspicious links that lead to web pages with injected malware into their code. Such web links can be presented in spam emails, on social media channels and corrupted online advertisements.
Insight Into .snake .TGIF File Virus
The infection process starts when the ransomware executes its payload on the system. The SnakeLocker ransomware is named after the malicious executable file that triggers the infection process – SnakeLocker.exe and appears to be coded in Python. The threat is also dubbed .snake or .TGIF file virus because SnakeLocker appends one of these two file extensions to all corrupted files.
Firstly, the .snake .TGIF file virus modifies system settings, writes new malicious files and terminates different processes in order to complete the attack. Some files associated with the threat may be situated in the following folders:
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %User’s Profile%
By using its malicious files SnakeLocker ransomware is likely to touch Windows registry and creates new values in certain keys like Run and RunOnce.
→ 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
The values in these keys determine which processes should start automatically whenever the Windows OS. So the ransomware uses them in order to enable its execution each time the user starts the PC. Specific values that support the sudden onset of its ransom note are also created in these keys. The ransom note is a file called INSTRUCTIONS-README.html that depicts the following crafted message:
Your files have been locked!
Your files have been securely encrypted with a top notch, extremely secure encryption algorithm. The only way you can get these files back is to pay a ransom of 0.1 Bitcoins.
To proceed to the next step in this process, download the Tor Browser Bundle here. Open the Tor Browser bundle and proceed to the following link:
****************.onion/decrypt.php
This link will give you payment instructions.
Don’t know how to get Bitcoins? No problem. You can buy bitcoins at any of the following websites:
1. https://localbitcoins.com/ (cash)
2. https://buy.bitcoin.com/ (credit card)
3. https://www.coinbase.com/ (bank transfer, credit card)
For more options on purchasing bitcoins, see this article.
It becomes clear that hackers demand a ransom of 0.1 bitcoins which at this point equals to $276 US Dollars to be transferred to their payment address which can only be accessed through Tor browser. Beware that security researchers reported that SnakeLocker ransomware is in development which means that its code may be broken. Thus there is a chance that the decryption key is lost or broken and won’t work for .snake and .TGIF files decryption.
Additionaly, the .snake .TGIF file virus is believed to cause running the command line:
→Vssadmin delete shadows/for={volume}/oldest/all/shadow={ID of the Shadow}/quiet
This command deletes all Shadow Volume Copies created and stored by the Windows. Due to their lack .snake and .TGIF files cannot be recovered via Shadow Explorer software or Windows System Restore option.
Data Encryption Process
Encryption of valuable user data stored on the infected host is the primary goal of SnakeLocker ransomware. Only after making files unusable it is able to extort the ransom payment. Analyses of its samples reveal that it is likely to search for and encrypt all files that have one of the following file extensions:
→.php, .asp, .txt, .jsp, .avi, .flv, .htm, .js, .eot, .file, .pdf, .mkv, .mov, .mp4, .mpg, .mpeg, .jpg, .swf, .vob, .wmv, .doc, .docx, .docm, .xls, .xlsx, .png, .locky, mid, .wma, .asf, .vob, .fla, .qcow2, .vdi, .vmdk, .vmx, .gpg, .aes, .PAQ, .tar.bz2, .bak, .tar, .tgz, .rar, .zip, .djv, .djvu, .svg, .bmp, .png, .gif, .raw, .cgm, .tif, .tiff, .NEF, .psd, .cmd, .bat, .class, .jar, .java, .asp, .brd, .sch, .dch, .dip, .vbs, .asm, .pas, .cpp, .ldf, .mdf, .ibd, .MYI, .MYD, .frm, .odb, .dbf, .mdb, .sql, .SQLITEDB, .SQLITE3, .asc, .lay6, .lay, .sldm, .sldx, .ppsm, .ppsx, .ppam, .docb, .mml, .sxm, .otg, .odg, .uop, .potx, .potm, .pptx, .pptm, .std, .sxd, .pot, .pps, .sti, .sxi, .otp, .odp, .wks, .xltx, .xltm, .xlsb, .slk, .xlw, .xlt, .xlm, .xlc, .dif, .stc, .sxc, .ots, .ods, .hwp, .dotm, .dotx, .DOT, .max, .xml, .txt, .CSV, .uot, .RTF, .pdf, .PPT, .stw, .sxw, .ott, .odt, .pem, .csr, .key, .asc, .wallet.dat, default.wallet, .default_wallet
The ransomware is believed to encrypt files via combination of the strong RSA and AES cipher algorithms. SnakeLocker ransomware has two variants. The first one renames all corrupted files with the malicious extension .snake while the second uses the .TGIF file extension. An unusual strain of .snake .TGIF file virus is that is encrypts files stored in Windows folders that store essential system files. Usually, ransomware authors avoid targeting those folders as corruption of certain system files can break the whole system.
Remove SnakeLocker Ransomware and Restore .snake .TGIF Files
To sum up, ransomware infections like SnakeLocker are among the most devastating malware threats these days. For the sake of PC and personal data security, its removal should be performed as soon as possible. Only after the complete elimination of all malicious files and objects associated with the ransomware some of the alternative data recovery approaches mentioned in the guide below are to be tried. Choose your way to remove the threat, back up all encrypted files and have a go with the .snake and .TGIF files recovery.
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 .snake .TGIF with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .snake .TGIF.
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 .snake .TGIF 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.
.snake .TGIF-FAQ
What is .snake .TGIF Ransomware?
.snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF Infect?
Via several ways..snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF 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 ..snake .TGIF files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..snake .TGIF 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 ..snake .TGIF files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..snake .TGIF" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .snake .TGIF 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 .snake .TGIF 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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