.AL8P file extension is placed on all of your files? .AL8P Virus File is also known as Matrix ransomware which locks files on a computer and demands money to be paid as a ransom for unlocking them.
Matrix Ransomware (.AL8P Virus File)
The .AL8P virus is the newest release of the Matrix ransomware family. At the moment a global attack campaign with it is being launched against users worldwide. As a new derivative of this group of viruses it will follow the usual mechanism of infection. The end results will be that the victims will find that they will have their files locked and encrypted. The users will be blackmailed into paying a decryption fee to the hackers.
Matrix Ransomware Virus
Virus infections that are part of the Matrix family of threats are considered very dangerous. They exhibit typical files encryption behavior and depending on the hacking group and their instructions other actions can be added as well. After the encryption phase has finished running the .AL8P virus will attempt to extort the users for a decryption fee payment. This is done in cryptocurrency form in order to hide the identity of the hackers.
.AL8P virus Summary
| Name | .AL8P virus |
| File Extension | .AL8P |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The Matrix ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .AL8P extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | READ_ME.htm |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .AL8P virus. |
.AL8P Virus File – How Did It Infect My PC?
The .AL8P virus is a new Matrix ransomware sample which has been detected in an ongoing attack campaign. The virus signatures correspond to the Matrix ransomware family which is one of the most popular groups of desktop viruses. Such threats are created by hacker groups by taking the source code of the main engine and modifying it to create the new virus copies.
.AL8P ransomware samples can be distributed using common distribution tactics which can vary depending on the hacking group, their intentions and the targets.
The .AL8P virus can be distributed using common infections strategies. One of the most prominent ones is the integration of the virus code in file carriers — they can be macro-infected documents or setup bundles. The documents will contain dangerous virus code that will be hidden in the macro code. When the files are run by the victims a prompt will be opened asking the users to enable the content. If this is done the malware will run. These types of attacks are very easy to carry out as all popular document formats can be used: presentations, text documents, databases and spreadsheets. The setup bundles are usually of popular software that is commonly downloaded from the Internet: system utilities, productivity and office tools. They are created by taking the original bundles and applying the virus code to them. The virus-infected data can then be distributed on file-sharing networks that include BitTorrent trackers and etc. Such files can alternatively be distributed on hacker-controlled sites and via email messages both of which can utilize common scam or phishing delivery tactics. This means that the virus carrying messages and content can impersonate well-known companies and services, be hosted on similar sounding domain name and even include self-signed security certificates.
As soon as the virus infection has started the virus will usually follow the same behavior pattern as observed in previous Matrix ransomware threats. This includes an information gathering module which can hijack personal user information that can expose the identity of the computer owners or, alternatively, machine data. This can generate a report of the installed hardware components, operating system data and other types of information which will lead to the creation of an unique ID. It will be used by the hackers to keep an account of the number of contaminated hosts.
The .AL8P ransomware may be configured to edit system files — this can lead to the installation of the threat in a persistent way. This means that the virus will be started every time the computer is powered on and may also block access to the recovery options. If the malware engine is configured so it can also create new entries or edit existing values in the Windows Registry. This can lead to system-wide issues including severe performance issues, data loss and such.
Ransomware viruses are designed to encrypt user files — this is done according to a built-in list of target file type extensions. Usually such data includes the most popular and widely used files: archives, documents, multimedia files, backups and etc. All victim files will be processed and encrypted with a strong cipher. The files will not be accessible to the users and a specially created ransom note will be created in folders where there is victim data. It will contain a message that will blackmail the victims for a ransom payment. It is usually a sum given in cryptocurrency assets that is requested by the users.
Remove .AL8P Virus File
If your computer got infected with the .AL8P Virus File, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
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 .AL8P virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .AL8P 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 .AL8P 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 .AL8P 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 .AL8P virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .AL8P 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 .AL8P 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.
.AL8P virus-FAQ
What is .AL8P virus Ransomware?
.AL8P 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 .AL8P 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 .AL8P virus Infect?
Via several ways..AL8P 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 .AL8P 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 ..AL8P virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..AL8P 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 ..AL8P virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..AL8P virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..AL8P 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 .AL8P 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 .AL8P virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..AL8P 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 .AL8P 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 .AL8P virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .AL8P 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 .AL8P 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.
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