This article explains the issues that occur in case of infection with .snatch files virus and provides a complete guide on how to remove malicious files and how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
A data locker ransomware dubbed .snatch files virus has been detected in the wild. In case that you are a victim of this nasty threat you won’t be able to open files that are marked with the .snatch extension. This is a result of significant modifications applied to their code. In addition, hackers will attempt to blackmail you into paying them a ransom fee for files decryption.
Threat Summary
| Name | .snatch Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Ransomware infection created for the corruption of common types of files. As a consequence hackers demand a ransom payment. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encoded with strong cipher algorithm. Their names display the extension .snatch while their information remains inaccessible. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Web Pages, Fake Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .snatch 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. |
.snatch Files Virus – Distribution
In general, for the spread of threats like .snatch files virus, cyber criminals use spam email messages. This method enables them to trick as many users as possible to run the ransomware payload on their devices. Emails that aim to deliver malware on computer devices often pose as representatives of legitimate websites, services, and even governmental institutions.
They also contain a few traits that could help users detect the presence of malicious code. The most common one is a file attachment of frequently used type of files such as documents, archives, images, PDFs or other well-known file formats. Once such a file is loaded on a target device, it triggers the malicious code that leads to infection with .snatch ransomware.
Another malicious element that may appear in emails part of ransomware spread campaigns is URL address being it in the form of an in-text link, button, coupon, banner, image or other clickable forms. The load of the page behind this URL address results in the unnoticed execution of ransomware payload.
.snatch Files Virus – Infection Overview
When the payload of this .snatch ransomware manages to run on a target system, it initiates a long sequence of malicious tasks that plague some major system components. Infected system components enable the ransomware to complete its primary goal which is data encryption.
In the beginning, .snatch cryptovirus is likely to establish additional malicious files and objects on the infected computer. For the purpose, it could be either designed to create them directly in a target system directory, download them from a remote server or both. Eventually, like most of the analyzed ransomware infections, .snatch probably keeps its associated files and objects in some of the following system folders:
- %Roaming%
- %Windows%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
Once the cryptovirus establishes all needed files, it continues with the contamination of predefined system processes, components and settings most of which essential for system’s regular and secure performance.
The Windows Registry Editor is likely to be infected by this ransomware. By adding malicious values under some of the registry keys, .snatch becomes able to manipulate their functionalities. This way it could perform various malicious activities without being detected by active security measures and ensure its persistent presence on the system.
In addition, when it adds certain valued under the registry sub-key Run or RunOnce, .snatch could automatically load its ransom note on the PC screen. This note is stored in a text file named Readme_Restore_Files.txt and all it reads is:
All your files are encrypted
Do not try modify files
My email imBoristheBlade@protonmail.com
This is a short message that does not provide many details on hackers’ demands. Apparently, they expect victims to contact them at the presented email address so that the first could receive more information on how to restore encrypted files. Beware, that such an action could lead to additional security issues that could affect your privacy. Furthermore, even a successful ransom payment does not guarantee the recovery of your encoded files, so be advised to refrain from following hackers instructions before you attempt to solve the problem in a secure manner.
.snatch Files Virus – Encryption Process
When .snatch reaches the data encryption stage, it activates an inbuilt encryption module. This module is set to run a sophisticated cipher algorithm every time the ransomware detects a target type of file. Unfortunately, all of the following files could be encrypted by .snatch files virus as they are commonly used for the storage of important data:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Following encryption, all corrupted files appear with the extension .snatch at the end of their original names. Due to transformations applied to their code, they remain inaccessible until an efficient solution reverts them back to original state.
Remove .snatch Files Virus and Restore Data
The .snatch cryptovirus is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So you should clean and secure your infected system 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 .snatch ransomware. Choose the manual removal approach if you have any previous experience with the detection of malware files. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps select the automatic section from the guide. Steps there will enable you to check the infected system for ransomware files and remove them with a few mouse clicks.
In order to keep your system secure against ransomware and other types of malware in future, you should consider the installation of a reliable anti-malware program. Additional security layer that could help you prevent the occurrence of ransomware attacks is [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/the-most-popular-free-anti-ransomware-tools/”]anti-ransomware tool.
If you want to understand how to potentially fix encrypted files without paying the ransom read carefully all the details mentioned in step “Restore files”. Beware that before the 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 .snatch Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .snatch 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 .snatch 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 .snatch 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 .snatch Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .snatch 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 .snatch 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.
.snatch Files Virus-FAQ
What is .snatch Files Virus Ransomware?
.snatch 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 .snatch 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 .snatch Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..snatch 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 .snatch 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 ..snatch Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..snatch 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 ..snatch Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..snatch Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..snatch 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 .snatch 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 .snatch Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..snatch 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 .snatch 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 .snatch Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .snatch 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 .snatch 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.
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