This article has been created to explain what is the purpose of the .block files virus and how to remove this infection from your PC plus how to try and restore files that have been encrypted by it on your computer.
The .block files ransomware is the newest strain associated with the Dharma ransomware family. It is a modular framework that can be customized further by the criminals as the attack is unfolded. As a consequence sensitive user files are impacted and are renamed with the .block extension. Read our in-depth guide in order to restore your computers from the infection.
Threat Summary
| Name | .block |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | An advanced ransomware strain that aims to cause dangerous system changes and encrypt target user files. |
| Symptoms | One of the main symptoms is the renaming of data with the .block file extension. |
| 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 .block. |
| 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. |
.block Files Virus – How Did I Get Infected
We have received information about a dangerous new strain of the Dharma ransomware family known as the .block ransomware. Like many of the similar strains that originate from this malware family it uses multiple distribution channels.
Depending on the target users the hackers can send out email messages that can link to the malware samples. In other cases the .block files virus can be attached to them as executable or archive files. In recent years there have also been many infections using malware software installers. They are usually setup packages taken from their official sources and then modified to include the virus code. In certain cases the victims may be able to disallow installation by unchecking certain options during the setup process.
The creation and distribution of infected documents is another trend that is used more and more among computer hackers, especially those behind advanced strains such as this one. The criminals create documents of various types that may be of any kind: rich text documents, spreadsheets and presentations that use social engineering techniques to make the users run them. Once the files are opened a notification prompt asks them to execute the built-in scripts (macros). If this is done then the .block file virus is automatically retrieved from the Internet and executed on the host.
Other popular infections methods also include software exploits, they usually occur automatically and are managed through hacker frameworks. The penetrations usually occur immediately after a vulnerability has been exposed. All kinds of malware payload delivery mechanisms can also be distributed via hacker-operated sites, ads, redirects and pop-ups.
Browser hijackers are also used as delivery mechanisms. During their infection phase the malware code can be used to institute the .block file virus into the target hosts.
.block Ransomware – More Information and Activity
Once the infections have started the .block file virus starts to execute it’s built-in behavior pattern. Depending on the exact configuration different components can be bundled either before the infection or interactively as the malware engine performs various checks.
At the onset of infection advanced threats usually perform a thorough system scan. Its aim is to create a profile of the compromised machine which includes the hardware components, installed software and user configuration. This data is used to execute the stealth protection mechanism which attempts to bypass or delete any discovered security software. This includes anti-virus programs, firewalls, sandboxes, debugging environments and virtual machines. In some cases if the threat is not able to doso then it will delete itself to avoid detection.
In order to facilitate a deeper infection the malware engine can connect to a hacker-controlled server which is used to send and receive commands from the criminal operators. The list of possible computer abuse includes the following:
- File Stealing — Prior to the ransomware process the hackers can use the virus to retrieve sensitive files from the compromised computers.
- Additional Malware Delivery — The criminals can use the C&C (command and control) servers in order to deploy additional threats.
- Trojan Component — Remote control of the victim hosts can be achieved using a Trojan component. It can be deployed by the hackers either automatically or manually. It would allow them to view the victims desktop in real time. The hackers can also overtake control of the computers at any given time.
As the hackers have the ability to access other applications as well which includes web browsers as they are among the most widely software. The criminals can gain access to data such as: cookies, bookmarks, history, passwords, form data and account credentials.
The .block file virus can also be programmed to achieve a persistent state of execution. It would allow the malware to prevent manual user removal attempts by actively monitoring the victim’s actions. Such actions are usually followed by system changes that can impact both the Windows registry and the operating system configuration files themselves. As a result the users can experience performance issues, applications failure or find that certain Windows services will stop working.
As it the .block file virus uses a modular framework its behavior patterns can shift thus creating an entirely new signature. In certain situations the hackers may opt to delete the available Shadow volume copies. This makes file recovery difficult without the use of a professional-grade data recovery solution. Refer to our in-depth instructions below.
.block Ransomware – Encryption
The ransomware process is executed as soon as all other components are complete. The relevant engine starts to encrypt target user data based on a built-in list of target file type extensions.
During the initial configuration the virus may also access the Windows mount manager thus gaining access to removable storage devices and network shares. The malware will begin to scan the most frequently used files:
- Microsoft Office documents.
- Adobe .PDF documents.
- Virtual drive images.
- Photos and other image files.
- Music and other audio data.
- Videos.
- System image files.
- Files related to often used software.
A strong cipher is used to process the victim files. As a result a pattern is used consisting of the hacker’s email address followed by a dot and then the block extension. The ransomware note itself is crafted in a file called FILES ENCRYPTED: Bloc de notas.txt which reads the following:
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
write email decrypt.guarantee@aol.com
How to Remove .block Ransomware and Restore Your Files
In order to remove ransowmare viruses like .block, it is important to isolate them from being operational. To do this, we recommend to follow the removal instructions down below. They are separated in automatic and manual removal instructions. If you lack the experience in malware removal, reccomendations are to remove .block ransowmare automatically preferrably by downloading an advanced anti-malware software. Such will ensure that your computer is free from all malware without you having to reinstall your Windows and will protect your computer against infections like .block in the future too.
If you want to restore files that have been encrypted by the .block ransomware infections, we strongly advise that you focus on trying out our alternative ransomware recovery methods in step “2.Restore files encrypted by .block Virus” below. These methods are not 100% guarantee that you will be able to restore all files encrypted by this virus, but they may help you recover at least some of the encoded data.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for .block with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .block 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 .block 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 .block 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 .block
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .block.
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 .block 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.
.block-FAQ
What is .block Ransomware?
.block 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 .block 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 .block Infect?
Via several ways..block 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 .block 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 ..block files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..block 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 ..block files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..block" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..block 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 .block 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 .block ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..block 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 .block 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 .block Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .block 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 .block 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.