This article is created to help users infected by LazagneCrypt ransomware through the removal and the recovery process of .encr files.
LazagneCrypt ransomware aims to locate predefined types of files stored on the compromised machine and then encrypts them. For the purpose, it uses strong cipher algorithm. Corrupted files have the extension .encr and are completely unusable until a ransom for their decryption is paid to hackers. On top of that LazagneCrypt ransomware can steal all credentials stored on the infected machine. Thus, the ransomware has to be removed instantly.
Threat Summary
| Name | LazagneCrypt |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt particular files that store imortant information and demands a ransom for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware appends the .locked file extension to the corrupted files. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss LazagneCrypt. |
| 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. |
LazagneCrypt Ransomware – Ways of Distribution
The analyses of LazagneCrypt ransomware samples reveal that an executable file called brc.exe triggers the infection. That malicious file may be distributed via different methods. Among the most preferred are email spam attachments, compromised links and software bundles.
There are several known traits of the emails that are trying to deliver a ransomware infection. First, they need to look legitimate so they often use the names of popular services, websites, stores and governmental institutions. The senders pretend to be representatives of these companies and the message is trying to provoke your emotional triggers. Such emails aim to convince you that the information of an attached file is extremely important and you should view it as soon as possible. However, once you open the file on your PC, it causes an infection with LazagneCrypt ransomware.
In an attempt to deliver the ransomware payload hackers may create colognes of particular web pages and inject the malicious script into their source code. What lefts is the spread of the corrupted links across the net. This may happen via emails, instant messages, social media channels and malvertising campaigns.
What is typical for the software bundles is that the installers of supposedly useful apps contain additional components that may remain hidden in the Advanced or Custom options. As these parts are usually set for installation by default you may unknowingly infect your system with LazagneCrypt ransomware.
LazagneCrypt Ransomware – In-Depth Analysis
Once the malicious executable brc.exe is running on the system it starts the infection process of LazagneCrypt ransomware. A sequence of harmful actions leads to the total corruption of the computer system and all the important files of yours.
In case that the ransomware needs additional malicious components it can connect to its command and control server to download them. There are several folder locations where LazagneCrypt crypto virus might drop its files. Below you can see them:
Among the observed impacts are believed to be modifications of some important registry keys. Commonly ransomware infections like LazagneCrypt target the Run and RunOnce registry keys as they contain information which programs should run each time a user logs on the system. By adding specific entries under these keys the ransomware can start each time you turn log on your system profile. The exact location of these keys is:
→ 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 analysis conducted by the security researcher Karsten Han has discovered a devastating fact about LazagneCrypt ransomware. As explained the threat can steal passwords from the compromised machine and then send them to hackers.
For the purpose, LazagneCrypt employs the LaZagne password recovery tool. The tool can retrieve passwords stored by commonly-used software apps that are installed on the compromised computer. The password dumps are then uploaded to hackers’ controlled account via the service SwissDisk.
A specific trait of LazagneCrypt crypto virus is a file that contains a ransom message. The file is likely to be dropped on the Desktop. It aims to inform you that your data is encrypted with strong cipher and you need to pay a ransom probably in Bitcoin. The amount may vary from a few dollars to a few thousand dollars.
LazagneCrypt Ransomware – Encryption Process
The primary aim of LazagneCrypt ransomware is to find particular files stored on the compromised device and modify their original code with the help of strong cipher algorithm. As a result the corrupted files recieve the extenson .encr and connot display the data they store.
Being based on the code of the HiddenTear project the LazagneCrypt ransomware is likely to target the following types of files for encryption:
→.txt, .doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .ppt, .pptx, .odt, .jpg, .png, .csv, .sql, .mdb, .hwp, .pdf, .php, .asp, .aspx, .html, .xml, and .psd
In addition, the crypto virus might delete the Shadow Volume Copies stored on the system as they may be used for the recovery of .encr files. This happens after the following command is entered in the CommandPrompt:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
Remove LazagneCrypt Ransomware and Restore .encr Files
To remove LazagneCrypt ransomware you can follow the step-by-step removal guide provided below. It provides help for the removal of all malicious files and objects associated with LazagneCrypt ransomware. Due to the complexity of ransomware code, security specialists always recommended the help of an anti-malware tool. Such a tool will easily locate all malicious files so you can then delete them with a few mouse clicks.
Before you continue with the data recovery process be sure to have copies of all corrupted .encr files stored on an external drive.
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 LazagneCrypt with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by LazagneCrypt.
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 LazagneCrypt 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.
LazagneCrypt-FAQ
What is LazagneCrypt Ransomware?
LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt Infect?
Via several ways.LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt 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 .LazagneCrypt files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .LazagneCrypt 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 .LazagneCrypt files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".LazagneCrypt" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this LazagneCrypt 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 LazagneCrypt 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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