This article explains what .lol files virus is and what issues occur in case of infection with this ransomware. In addition, you could find a detailed removal guide with restore data part at the end of the article.
A ransomware dubbed .lol files virus has been identified as a strain of Scarab threat family. It is a crypto virus designed to infect computer systems with the purpose to reach certain types of files and transform their code with the help of sophisticated cipher algorithm. Following the data encryption process, .lol files virus opens a ransom message that urges you into contacting hackers so you can receive instructions on how to pay them a ransom fee.
Threat Summary
| Name | .lol Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A strain of Scarab ransomware that corrupts valuable files with the help of sophisticated cipher algorithm. |
| Symptoms | Important files appear with the extension .lol appended to their names. You could not access them as they are encoded with strong cipher algorithm. Hackers attempt to extort a ransom payment for files decryption. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Corrupted Websites, Fake Software Updates |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .lol Files 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. |
.lol Files Virus – Distribution
The spread of the payload file that triggers an infection with .lol files virus could be realized with the help of commonly used techniques like malspam, malvertising, corruption of web pages, fake software update notifications, freeware installers and other.
Since hackers seek for the most efficient way to trick users into executing unnoticeably malicious code on their devices, they often chose malspam as a main infection vector. Malspam or email messages that deliver malicious code enable hackers to present their infection payload in familiar forms such as file attachments of common types and URL addresses. Once an infected file is opened on the device or a corrupted website loaded in the browser .lol files virus becomes able to damage essential system components and encode target files. Emails part of malicious campaigns may be disguised as legitimate emails sent by well-known institutions and services such as [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/paypal-e-mail-virus-and-scam-how-to-remove-them-from-your-pc/”]PayPal, [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/dhl-phishing-scams-get-rid/”]DHL, [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/fedex-parcel-scam-remove-active-infections/”]FedEx, and [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/1000-amazon-gift-card-scam-get-rid/”]Amazon.
.lol Files Virus – Overview
A ransomware dubbed .lol files virus has been identified as a strain of [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-scarab-bomber-ransomware-restore-bomber-files/”]Scarab threat family. The infection process with the so-called .lol files virus begins with the execution of its payload on your system. This file is developed to trigger a sequence of malicious activities that support the completion of the attack.
As it may not contain all malicious commands needed for the thorough system contamination, it is likely to initiate the creation of additional malware files. One way to do get these files is by creating them directly on the system. Another one is via connection to a command and control server. Files associated with this ransomware may be located in some of the following system folders:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
One of the major impacts that could be witnessed as a result of harmful changes implemented by Scarab .lol ransomware is the automatic execution of malicious files on each system start. This becomes a fact after some specific malicious values are added under the Run and RunOnce registry sub-keys.
These keys are located in the Registry Editor – a hierarchical database that stores essential system settings. The reason why they are often affected by ransomware like .lol is their functionality to execute all files and processes listed under them each time you start the system.
In case that your computer has been infected by .lol files virus you should consider the complete removal of all malicious files and objects from the system. Otherwise, hackers could misuse present harmful files to perform further malicious activities.
Following data encryption process, specifics of which are described in detail in the next paragraph, .lol crypto virus drops a text file called HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT on the infected device. This file contains a ransom message left by hackers. Its purpose is to present you information on how to act further in order to restore encrypted files.
Here is the text it presents:
All your files are encrypted!
Your ID
6902000000000000********B98F800Get a decoder:
enter_software@aol.com
enter_software@india.comIf you can not contact by mail
* Register on the site https://bitmsg.me (Bitmessage online sending service)
* Write a letter BM-2cTXnB6dEE6TdHmAJCnEHp9PdsPThtS5n4 with your mail and ID.
If the site does not work, use vpn or torproject.org
For the sake of your security you should not believe in hackers’ promises. Their so-called decoder could be unable to restore your .lol files. Only a single bug in the code of this ransomware could result in the generation of a broken decryption key that will be inefficient while applying it during the decryption process. So we recommend you to consider the help of alternative data recovery methods before rushing into paying hackers the demanded ransom. As of the ransom, its amount remains unknown since it is not stated in the ransom note. The guesses are that it should be paid in Bitcoin.
.lol Files Virus – Encryption Process
Data encryption is considered to be the main infection phase as it corrupts valuable users’ files restoration of which is possible after a ransom payment. During this infection phase, .lol files virus activates an inbuilt encryption module that is designed to scan certain drives and folders for target types of files and utilize sophisticated cipher algorithm every time it finds a match of its search.
Since this iteration of Scarab ransomware is likely to encrypt commonly used types of files, it could corrupt valuable data such as:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Upon encryption your corrupted files will appear with the extension .lol in their names. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to access the information they store until you apply an efficient recovery solution to revert back their code. We remind you that the decrypter offered by hackers is only one of the ways to restore .lol files. You could find out more data recovery approaches in the guide below.
Remove Scarab Ransomware and Restore .lol Files
The so-called .lol files virus 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 Scarab .lol ransomware. 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 .lol Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .lol Files 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 .lol Files 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 .lol Files 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 .lol Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .lol Files 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 .lol Files 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.
.lol Files Virus-FAQ
What is .lol Files Virus Ransomware?
.lol Files 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 .lol Files 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 .lol Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..lol Files 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 .lol Files 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 ..lol Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..lol Files 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 ..lol Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..lol Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..lol Files 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 .lol Files 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 .lol Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..lol Files 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 .lol Files 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 .lol Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .lol Files 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 .lol Files 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.
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.
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