What Is Alock Virus?
Alock represents a strain of ransomware, a malicious program with the aim of coercing money from victims through data encryption and the denial of access until a ransom is paid. These malware types propagate via malicious emails, obfuscated files, malevolent websites, and insecure networks. An absence of proper device and network security, as well as inadvertent downloads of malicious software, can lead to infection.
What Is Ransomware
Ransomware is a malevolent program that confines users’ access to their computer systems or data until a ransom is remitted. This type of malware is typically disseminated via phishing emails or the exploitation of vulnerabilities in software and networks.
![Alock Virus [.alock Files] Ransomware Removal + Recovery Guide](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/alock-virus-files-1024x576.jpg)
Alock Virus – Details
| Name | Alock |
| File Extension | .Alock |
| 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 Alock Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .alock extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your Mac Has Been Affected by Alock
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Alock Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
The Alock virus employs diverse techniques for infiltrating your device:
- Through email attachments or URLs sent to you.
- By being downloaded from dubious websites.
Alock Virus – What Does It Do?
If the Alock virus takes root on your computer, it can trigger significant disruptions, allowing cybercriminals to purloin or corrupt data, harm files, or even utilize your system to launch attacks on other systems. Swift action upon detection is imperative due to its rapid propagation.
Once the ransomware takes hold, it might deposit one or more payload files across multiple directories:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
Malicious programs can also inject several values into the Windows Registry, including entries in the Run and RunOnce keys.
The ransomware leaves behind a ransom note containing an extortion message.
YOUR PERSONAL ID:
–/!\ YOUR COMPANY NETWORK HAS BEEN PENETRATED /!\
All your important files have been encrypted!Your files are safe! Only modified. (RSA+AES)
ANY ATTEMPT TO RESTORE YOUR FILES WITH THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE
WILL PERMANENTLY CORRUPT IT.
DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES.
DO NOT RENAME ENCRYPTED FILES.No software available on internet can help you. We are the only ones able to
solve your problem.We gathered highly confidential/personal data. These data are currently stored on
a private server. This server will be immediately destroyed after your payment.
If you decide to not pay, we will release your data to public or re-seller.
So you can expect your data to be publicly available in the near future..We only seek money and our goal is not to damage your reputation or prevent
your business from running.You will can send us 2-3 non-important files and we will decrypt it for free
to prove we are able to give your files back.Contact us for price and get decryption software.
qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion
* Note that this server is available via Tor browser onlyFollow the instructions to open the link:
1. Type the addres “hxxps://www.torproject.org” in your Internet browser. It opens the Tor site.
2. Press “Download Tor”, then press “Download Tor Browser Bundle”, install and run it.
3. Now you have Tor browser. In the Tor Browser open qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion
4. Start a chat and follow the further instructions.If you can not use the above link, use the email:
ithelp02@securitymy.name
ithelp02@yousheltered.com* To contact us, create a new free email account on the site: protonmail.com
IF YOU DON’T CONTACT US WITHIN 72 HOURS, PRICE WILL BE HIGHER.
What Are .alock Files
Alock ransomware is responsible for the creation of .enc files after encrypting your data. This ransomware tends to target specific file extensions, encompassing:
- Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.)
- Audio files (.mp3, .wav, etc.)
- Image files (.jpg, .png, etc.)
- Archive file formats (.zip, .rar, etc.)
- Various document types (.docx, .pptx, etc.)
- And more
Post-encryption, the files adopt a format such as this:
Picture.jpg.Alock
Dealing with .alock Files
In the event that your files fall victim to encryption, it’s recommended to seek assistance from an experienced IT security professional who possesses knowledge of the ransomware’s encryption method. This can aid in regaining control of your files and preventing further attacks. Furthermore, maintaining an up-to-date operating system and applications can enhance your system’s security.
How to Protect Windows from Alock in the Future
To fortify your system against Alock ransomware and analogous threats in the future, adhere to these crucial security measures:
- Maintain up-to-date OS, software, and security solutions.
- Exercise caution when dealing with email attachments and suspicious links.
- Regularly back up important files to external storage or cloud services.
- Employ dependable antivirus and anti-malware tools.
- Enable automatic updates for both OS and applications.
- Avoid downloading files or software from untrusted sources.
- Exercise vigilance when navigating unfamiliar websites.
By implementing these practices, you can significantly mitigate the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks and safeguard your valuable data.
How to Remove Alock Virus
For the elimination of the Alock virus from your system, it is essential to employ trustworthy anti-malware software. This software will conduct an extensive scan of your computer, identify the ransomware and any related malicious files, and safely remove them. Regular updates of your security software are critical to protect against emerging threats.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Alock with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Alock 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 Alock 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 Alock 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 Alock
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Alock.
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 Alock 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.
Alock-FAQ
What is Alock Ransomware?
Alock 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 Alock 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 Alock Infect?
Via several ways.Alock 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 Alock 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 .Alock files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Alock 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 .Alock files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Alock" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Alock 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 Alock 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 Alock ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Alock 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 Alock 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 Alock Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Alock 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 Alock 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.