The .2048 files virus is a ransomware from the Crysis/Dharma family. It is extremely dangerous ransomware due to the fact that it encrypts personal files located on the local drives as well as shared network directories. The primary goal of Dharma .2048 ransomware is to extort a hefty ransom fee from infected users. The extortion happens via a ransom note file named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt
Security experts strongly advise all victims against paying the demanded ransom to hackers. Otherwise, cybercriminals will be encouraged to continue developing vicious ransomware infections like 2048 files virus and harassing online users. Keep up with this ransomware removal guide and find out how to clean malicious files from infected PC as well as how to potentially recover .2048 files.
Threat Summary
| Name | 2048 virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A ransomware dsigned to corrupt valuable files and extort a ransom free for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files cannot be opened due to changes of their code. They are all renamed with .2048 extension. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| 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 2048 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. |
2048 Virus Files – Technical Analysis
They usually inject the ransomware activator in the code of a file attachment or in the source code of any web page. Both elements could be shown in the email. What we recommend you to do every time you have a doubt whether an email element is harmful or secure is checking its security status. The free help offered by some online scanners like VirusTotal and ZipeZip could save you a lot of troubles.
The 2048 files virus is a nasty ransomware infection that has been released in active attack campaigns. A tweet by the security researcher Amigo-A reveals that the threat is based on the code of the infamous Dharma/CrySiS ransomware. As a strain of this ransomware, the 2048 virus plagues computer systems in order to reach target types of files, transform their code and extort a ransom fee from victims.
The main spread channel used by hackers is likely to be malspam. Emails that are part of such campaigns usually attempt to trick you into running malicious software on your device. For the purpose hackers often configure the emails to pose as representatives of legitimate institutions, businesses and services.
When started on a target computer system, 2048 ransomware creates a bunch of malicious files that support the contamination of essential system components and their settings. For their location are supposed to be chosen some of the following system folders:
- %Roaming%
- %Windows%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
By executing these malicious files on the infected system, the 2048 virus becomes able to evade detection and compromise needed system settings. Affected is likely to be the Registry Editor. Since the Registry Editor is an essential system component that contains some of the most important low-level system settings, it is highly recommendable to check it for any present malicious entries in case of infecton with .2048 virus ransomware.
.2048 File Extension
The 2048 virus Dharma strain aims to reach a data encryption stage when it becomes able to utilize strong cipher algorithm to corrupt target files. This algorithm transforms parts of the original code of personal files that store valuable information. As a result, you may be unable to open files like:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
The moment 2048 virus encrypts a file, it appends the following sequence of extensions to its original name:
- .id-XXXXXXXX.[rsa2048@cock.li].2048
If you want to understand how to potentially fix encrypted files with the help of alternative data recovery approaches, make sure to read carefully all details mentioned in step 5 from our ransomware removal guide. We remind that you should before you begin with the data recovery process, you should back up all encrypted files to an external drive as this will help you to prevent their irreversible loss.
When 2048 virus completes all planned infection stages, it drops a text file that contains its ransom message. The purpose of this message is to force you into contacting hackers so they can send you back their further demands. Here is the text message you could see when you open the file FILES ENCRYPTED.txt
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
write email rsa2048@cock.li or 2048rsa@tutanota.com
Like the latest Dharma ransomware strains – .kharma Virus and .SySS Virus, the 2048 ransomware virus is supposed to be set to generate the following message:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail rsa2048@cock.li
Write this ID in the title of your message
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails: 2048rsa@tutanota.com
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
https://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
The same message may lock your screen and make it look like this:
We know that you need to recover your valuable files but beware of the fact that ransom payment does not guarantee their recovery. Cybercriminals could mislead you again by sending you broken decrypter or ignoring your messages. So you may not be able to restore files even after you pay the ransom. That’s why we advise you to avoid paying hackers and attempt to restore .2048 files with the help of alternative methods.
Remove 2048 Virus Files and Restore Data
The ransomware associated with .2048 extension 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 this 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 consider the installation of a reliable anti-malware program.
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 2048 virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall 2048 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 2048 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 2048 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 2048 virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by 2048 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 2048 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.
2048 virus-FAQ
What is 2048 virus Ransomware?
2048 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 2048 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 2048 virus Infect?
Via several ways.2048 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 2048 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 .2048 virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .2048 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 .2048 virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".2048 virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .2048 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 2048 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 2048 virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .2048 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 2048 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 2048 virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this 2048 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 2048 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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