The malicious file extension .INCANTO is associated with a new data locker ransomware of undetermined family. Ransomware is a type of malware that penetrates the PC to take control over the system and corrupt valuable data stored on it. Then it drops a file named !!!GetBackData!!!.txt which holds the ransom note. The message blackmails victims to pay a ransom in Bitcoins for .INCANTO files recovery.
This article has the goal to provide support for the .INCANTO file virus removal process and reveal more information about its adverse impact on the infected computer.
Threat Summary
| Name | .INCANTO file virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts the files on the infected computer. Demands ransom payoff in BitCoin. The ransom varies. |
| Symptoms | The files are encrypted with the .INCANTO file extension added to them. The virus drops a ransom note, named !!!GetBackData!!!.txt. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| 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 .INCANTO file 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. |
.INCANTO File Virus – Delivery
There are many attack vectors and different techniques used for ransomware delivery. Generally cyber criminals choose spam email messages that impersonate legitimate organizations and institutions. This technique is preferred as users are more prone to follow the instructions in the email and download the ransomware payload on their systems. The payload is usually hidden in an attachment – document with embedded malicious macros, archive file, JavaScript, PDF that may be named invoice, payment reference, report, etc. Once an infected file is opened on the PC the ransomware starts to infect the system. Another way of ransomware distribution that is used often is a web link that redirect to corrupted website that is set to download the payload automatically on the computer and triggers the attack. Except spam emails such links may be posted on social media networks or used for malvertising.
.INCANTO File Virus – Overview
This new ransomware is named after the specific file extension it uses for encrypted files – .INCANTO. The threat can be triggered by an executable file that controls all subsequent impacts. In order to fulfill the attack, .INCANTO crypto virus is considered to create or drop additional malicious files. They may be situated in some of the stated Windows folders below:
- %AppData%
- %Temp%
- %Roaming%
- %UserProfile%
Being a typical ransomware .INCANTO virus is believed to access Windows Registry targeting the Run and RunOnce keys. All it needs to do to ensure its stable presence on the computer is adding specific values in the mentioned registry keys. These keys enable the automatic execution of ransomware payload each time the Windows is started. They can be also used at the end of the attack when the ransom message should be noticed by the victim. The ransom note is a text file called !!!GetBackData!!! that reads the following:
All your important files were encrypted on this PC.
All files with .INCANTO extension are encrypted.
Encryption was produced using unique private key RSA-1024 generated for this computer.
To decrypt your files, you need to obtain private key + decrypt software.
The single copy of the private key, with will allow you to decrypt the files, is locate on a secret server on the internet.
To retrieve the private key, you need to contact us by email incantofiles@bitmessage.ch send us an email your !!!GetBackData!!!.txt file and wait for further instructions.
For you to be sure, that we can decrypt your files – you can send us a 1-2 not very big encrypted files and we will send you back it in a decrypted form free.
To send files you can use https://dropmefiles.com/
Your personal id:
[redacted]E-mail address to contact us:
incantofiles@bitmessage.ch
Reserve email address to contact us:
incantofiles@india.com
Contact, negotiations and payments should be restricted as security researchers are still investigating the ransomware samples. Hopefully, they will crack its code and release a freely available decryption tool.
Another damage caused by .INCANTO file virus is preventing one of the possible recovery options. This is possible once it accesses the Command Prompt and writes the command:
→ vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
.INCANTO File Virus – Encryption
For the encryption .INCANTO crypto virus is believed to use the RSA cipher algorithm that transforms the original code of target files making them completely unworkable. It is likely to attempt to corrupt different frequently used files like: documents, archives, databases, backups, text files, configuration files, music, photos, videos and etc. All encrypted files receive the extension .INCANTO at the end of their names and remain unusable. They can be decrypted with the unique decryption key possessed by crooks. However, it is better to try all you can do by yourself to recover .INCANTO files. The good news is that there are alternative data recovery solutions that appear to be efficient in many similar cases. Check the step “Restore files encrypted by .INCANTO Ransomware” in the guide below.
Remove .INCANTO File Virus and Restore Data
To completely get rid of the .INCANTO file virus, carefully follow the step-by-step removal instructions provided below. After ransomware removal follows the data recovery step.
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 .INCANTO file virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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.
.INCANTO file virus-FAQ
What is .INCANTO file virus Ransomware?
.INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file virus Infect?
Via several ways..INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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 ..INCANTO file virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..INCANTO file 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 ..INCANTO file virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..INCANTO file virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .INCANTO file 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 .INCANTO file 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.
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