This article will help you to remove the A1Lock ransomware completely. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end.
The A1Lock ransomware is the name of a cryptovirus which is a variant of the GlobeImposter virus. The extension it places to all files after encryption is ..txt without modifying the original one or the filename. After encryption, a ransom note shows up inside an .html file containing instructions on how to pay the ransom and allegedly restore your data. Continue to read and check what ways you could try out to potentially recover your files.
Threat Summary
| Name | A1Lock |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer device and it shows a ransom note afterward. |
| Symptoms | This ransomware virus will encrypt your files and place the ..txt extension on each one of them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss A1Lock. |
| 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. |
A1Lock Ransomware – Ways of Delivery
A1Lock ransomware might spread its infection via different ways. The payload file which executes the malicious script for this ransomware, that in turn infects your computer machine, is circling around the Internet. Samples of this ransomware have been found by a few different malware researchers. You can see the detections of some security vendors for one such sample embedded into an executable file by checking the image taken of the VirusTotal service below:
Also, the following domains are used to deliver that payload file:
Important Note! The above list with domains is for purely informational purposes and opening any domain is strongly advised against, because that will download the virus onto your computer system.
The A1Lock ransomware might be using other ways to deliver the payload file, such as social media and file-sharing sites. Freeware applications found on the Web could be promoted as helpful but also could hide the malicious script for this virus. Before opening any files after you have downloaded them, you should instead scan them with a security program. Especially if they come from suspicious places, such as emails or links. Also, don’t forget to check the size and signatures of such files for anything that seems out of place. You should read the ransomware prevention tips given in the forum.
A1Lock Ransomware – Technical Data
The A1Lock ransomware is a cryptovirus, which has been circulating with different variants. When the A1Lock ransomware encrypts your files, it will put the ..txt extension to every file and display a ransom note with payment instructions. The virus is a GlobeImposter variant.
The list with known versions for the A1Lock variant can be seen right down here:
- Troy
- .707
- .490
- .rose
- .GOTHAM
The A1Lock ransomware can be set to make new registry entries in the Windows Registry to achieve a higher level of persistence. Such entries are usually designed in a way that will start the virus automatically with every launch of the Windows Operating System, such as the example shown right here below:
→“HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run”
The ransom message is placed inside a file called Read_ME.html. This is how it looks:
The ransom note states the following:
Your files are Encrypted!
For data recovery needs decryptor.
If you want to buy a decryptor, click the button:
Yes, I want to buy
Free decryption as guarantee.
Before paying you can send us 1 file for free decryption.
To send a message or file use this link.
( If you send a file for free decryption, also send file Read_ME.html )
Support
And finally, if you can not contact, follow these two steps:
1. Install the TOP Browser from this link:
torproject.org
2. Open this link in the TOP browser: support
Your personal ID:
If you click on the TOR link (https://n224ezvhg4sgyamb.onion.link), another page with further instructions will show up and you can see it here:
It states the following:
To buy the decryptor, you must pay the cost of: 0.29 Bitcoin ($997.19)
You have 2 days for payment
time left :
after finishing offer, decryptor cost will be 0.58 Bitcoin
You can buy bitcoin on one of these sites:
blockchain.info
localbitcoins.com
btc4cc.com
send 0.29 bitcoin on the Bitcoin address: 16QzEecSU858iaWFyLEEgGXGn9ehtvMJXG
Only after payment
Enter your REAL e-mail to get the decryptor and click Enter
EnterFree decryption as guarantee.
Before paying you can send us 1 file for free decryption.
To send a message or file use this form.
( If you send a file for free decryption, also send file RECOVER-FILES.HTML
message or fileRequester*
Subject*
You should NOT under any circumstances pay the ransom or write to these criminals. Nobody can give you a guarantee that you will get your files decrypted upon payment, plus in that way you will support the crooks and probably motivate them to keep making ransomware or do similar criminal acts.
A1Lock Ransomware – Encryption Process
There is no official list with file extensions that the A1Lock ransomware seeks to encrypt and the article will be updated if such a list is discovered. However, all files which get encrypted will receive the ..txt extension appended to them. The virus doesn’t change or modify the original file name or extension of the encrypted files.
The encryption algorithm which is used for the virus is currently unknown, but the ransomware encrypts files, some of which have the following extensions:
→.doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .jpg, .mp3, .pdf, .png, .txt
The A1Lock cryptovirus is reported by malware researchers to erase the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows Operating System by executing the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
Executing the above-stated command will make the encryption process more effective, as one of the main ways for file recovery will be eliminated. Continue reading to find out what methods you can try out to potentially restore some of your files.
Remove A1Lock Ransomware and Restore ..txt Files
If your computer got infected with the A1Lock ransomware virus, 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.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for A1Lock with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall A1Lock 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 A1Lock 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 A1Lock 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 A1Lock
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by A1Lock.
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 A1Lock 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.
A1Lock-FAQ
What is A1Lock Ransomware?
A1Lock 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 A1Lock 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 A1Lock Infect?
Via several ways.A1Lock 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 A1Lock 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 .A1Lock files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .A1Lock 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 .A1Lock files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".A1Lock" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .A1Lock 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 A1Lock 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 A1Lock ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .A1Lock 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 A1Lock 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 A1Lock Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this A1Lock 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 A1Lock 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.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.