.easy2lock file extension is placed on all of your files? .easy2lock Virus File is also known as WastedLocker ransomware which locks files on a computer and demands money to be paid as a ransom for unlocking them.
WastedLocker Ransomware (.easy2lock Virus File)
WastedLocker or otherwise known as .easy2lock Virus File is a ransomware type virus. It encrypts files by appending the .easy2lock extension to them, making them inaccessible. All encrypted files will receive the new extension. The WastedLocker ransomware drops a ransom note, which gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly restore their data by paying a ransom fee.
WastedLocker Ransomware Virus
WastedLocker Ransomware will encrypt all types of files such as audio, video, pictures, backups, banking data, and other personal user files found on a compromised computer system.
.easy2lock virus Summary
| Name | .easy2lock virus |
| File Extension | .easy2lock |
| 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 WastedLocker ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .easy2lock extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | note.ini |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .easy2lock virus. |
.easy2lock Virus File – How Did It Infect My PC and What Happened?
The .easy2lock virus is the latest example of the WastedLocker ransomware family. What we know about it is that there is an active campaign orchestrated by an unknown hacking group. There are only a few samples collected of it indicating that either the campaign is not focused on a lot of users or it is a test release. However, many of the found samples appear to have code snippets from the original and derivative forms of the WastedLocker ransomware family, for this reason, we presume that the hackers have obtained access to it in some way. They can be the same hacking group as the previous viruses or they could have purchased or modified the earlier forms.
For this reason, there are several ways through which these samples can be delivered to the hackers. It is very possible that the virus can be sent directly, but in most cases, ransomware threats are combined in carrier files. They can be documents, application installers, or other types of commonly downloaded data from the Internet. When they are run on the local machines the malware will be deployed automatically.
The hackers can use different strategies to distribute those files to the intended recipients. They can use different forms of phishing strategies that impersonate well-known companies and services, as well as their email messages, sites, and other widely used content. The virus files may also be uploaded to popular file sharing networks and advertising networks. Using fake or stolen credentials the data can be uploaded to well-known online communities: forums, chat rooms, and social networks.
Like other ransomware samples of this category when the threat is deployed on a computer the built-in execution sequence will be started. It can vary from campaign to campaign however when presuming that typical actions will be started. They will most likely include some kind of a data gathering process: the virus can access application data and system files. The collected information can be used for two purposes: for the identification of the computers and victims (allowing the hackers to conduct various identity-related crimes), and for hijacking personal information. In this step, most viruses will also generate and apply an ID to each computer.
Various malicious operations can be started, including system changes: the .easy2lock ransomware can be programmed to change the boot options and start the virus as soon as the computer is powered on. This will make it a persistent threat, indicating that it is much harder to remove. Some versions can also block access to the recovery boot options thereby making it much harder to remove using manual methods. The viruses can also delete important files: thereby making it nearly impossible to restore the computers without the use of dedicated files recovery programs. If any Windows Registry values are modified then users may expect data loss and unexpected errors when using day-to-day programs.
When everything has finished running as intended the actual file encryption operations will start. The typical approach is to use a powerful cipher and process target data. The resulting victim files will be made inaccessible and renamed with a given extension.
A ransom note will be generated in each folder where there are affected files. This is done to blackmail the users into paying the hackers a decryption fee.
Remove .easy2lock Virus File
If your computer got infected with the .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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.
.easy2lock virus-FAQ
What is .easy2lock virus Ransomware?
.easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock virus Infect?
Via several ways..easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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 ..easy2lock virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..easy2lock 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 ..easy2lock virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..easy2lock virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .easy2lock 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 .easy2lock 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.
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