This article explains the issues that occur in case of infection with cuteRansomware also known as YuAlock. Below you will also find a complete guide on how to remove all malicious files from the infected system and how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
The cuteRansomware that is also called YuAlock is a crypto virus that invades computer systems. An infection with this ransomware leads to the corruption files that store valuable data. In order that the threat could reach data encryption stage, it performs different malicious commands that cause heavy system modifications. At the end of the attack cuteRansomware displays a ransom message that attempts to trick you into contacting hackers.
Threat Summary
| Name | CuteRansomware (YuAlock) |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to modify the code of target files and make them unusable. Then it demands a ransom for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files could not be opened. Their names display an uncommon extension at the end. A ransom message claims tha you could restore files only if you contact hackers. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Web Pages |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss CuteRansomware (YuAlock). |
| 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. |
cuteRansomware (YuAlock) – Distribution
At this point, there is no primary distribution method known to be used for the spread of cuteRansomware. So the guesses are that this ransomware also dubbed YuAlock could be distributed via common techniques such as malvertising, malspam, and freeware installers.
Malspam (spam email campaigns that deliver malware) is likely to be the main distribution vector utilized for the delivery of cuteRansomware’s payload. Most of these emails contain file attachments that according to their text messages need to be opened as soon as possible due to the importance of their data.
However, these files contain embedded malicious code that triggers the ransomware payload when you open them on your device. Another infection element that may appear in malspam emails is a clickable URL address. It may take the form of a button, in-text link, image, coupon voucher, etc. Such a link could be set to land on a corrupted web page that is configured to activate malicious scripts. The purpose of these scripts is to run the infection code on your system without your knowledge. That’s why it is of paramount importance to have a reliable anti-malware tool running on your system. Once activated such a tool is ready to detect all intrusive malware that attempts to infect the system. This could save you a lot of troubles, couldn’t it?
cuteRansomware (YuAlock) – Overview
When first started on the device cuteRansomware ties to access specific system directories in order to hijack legitimate processes and manipulate their functionalities. On one hand, this enables it to evade detection and fulfill the attack. On the other hand, manipulation of system resources could provide for the persistent presence of malicious files on the device.
As a result of malicious modifications applied under specific registry keys, this ransomware could become able to execute its infection files on each system start. This issue indicates that the registry sub-keys Run and RunOnce contain malicious values associated with ransomware files.
Once cuteRansomware/YuAlock completes all needed system changes it continues with data encryption stage (find more about it in the next paragraph). Soon after the virus is ready with the corruption of target files it drops the file D_E_C_R_Y_P_T.txt. As reported by security researchers this file contains a ransom message by hackers. All it reads is:
Your computer file has been encrypted with YuAlock.The other Ransomware requires a bit coin, but the Ransomware only needs to send a mail to recover the file …He’s not looking at the monitor seriously. Please smile a little Ha ha ha!
In addition, as reported by EnigmaSoft, the cuteRansomware could also load the following window on your infected PC:
The message on it reveals that hackers expect you to pay 0.05 BTC within a specified period of time if you want them to send you the decrypter. It’s interesting to be mentioned that another devastating threat called [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/bad-rabbit-ransomware-remove-recover-files-drive/”]Bad Rabbit was detected to use the same window to scare its victims. However, there is no evidence of the same authors to be behind YuAlock ransomware attacks.
Another noticed coincidence is that back in July 2016 our team reported one more ransomware called [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-cuteransomware-virus-restore-encrypted-%E5%8A%A0%E5%AF%86files/”]CuteRansomware. But since its samples indicate that it has completely different behavior, we believe that this new cuteRansomware/YuAlock belongs to another threat family.
cuteRansomware (YuAlock) – Encryption Process
When cuteRansomware is ready with all initial system modifications it activates its built-in encryption module to locate target files and encode them. At this point, there is no information about the exact cipher algorithm used by this crypto virus. However, once it changes the original code of target files they become inaccessible for an unspecified period of time.
One way for decrypting files is by paying hackers the demanded ransom. Our advice is to avoid doing this as you have no guarantee that their decryptor is working one. Only a single bug in their ransomware code could result in the generation of a completely inefficient decryption key.
Another way to restore encrypted files is with the help of alternative data recovery solutions such as Shadow Copy technology that is part of your Windows OS or specialized tools names of which are listed in step “Restore Files” form the guide below.
Eventually, when security experts conduct further analysis of the samples of this ransomware they may find out how to crack its code and release free decryption tool to help all infected users. We will update this article the moment this happens.
As of the types of data corrupted by YuAlock ransomware they may be all your:
- Archives
- Backups
- Images
- Videos
- Music
- Documents
Following encryption, they will appear as broken files with specific extension appended to its names.
Remove cuteRansomware/YuAlock and Restore Encrypted Files
The so-called cuteRansomware/YuAlock is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So infected system should be cleaned and secured properly before you could use it regularly again. Below you could find a step-by-step removal guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove cuteRansomware/YuAlock. Choose the manual removal approach if you have previous experience with malware files. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps select the automatic section from the guide. Steps there enable you to check the infected system for ransomware files and remove them with a few mouse clicks.
In order to keep your system safe from ransomware and other types of malware in future, you should install and maintain a reliable anti-malware program. Additional security layer that could prevent the occurrence of ransomware attacks is [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/the-most-popular-free-anti-ransomware-tools/”]anti-ransomware tool.
Make sure to read carefully all the details mentioned in the step “Restore files” if you want to understand how to fix encrypted files without paying the ransom. Beware that before data recovery process you should back up all encrypted files to an external drive as this will prevent their irreversible loss.
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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock)
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CuteRansomware (YuAlock).
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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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.
CuteRansomware (YuAlock)-FAQ
What is CuteRansomware (YuAlock) Ransomware?
CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) Infect?
Via several ways.CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 .CuteRansomware (YuAlock) files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 .CuteRansomware (YuAlock) files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CuteRansomware (YuAlock)" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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 CuteRansomware (YuAlock) 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.
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