This article will aid you to remove Epoblockl Virus. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
Epoblockl Virus is one that encrypts your data and demands money as a ransom to get it restored. Files will receive the .Epoblockl extension. The Epoblockl Virus will leave ransomware instructions as a desktop wallpaper image. Keep on reading the article and see how you could try to potentially recover some of your locked files and data.
Threat Summary
| Name | Epoblockl virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files by placing the .Epoblockl before the affected files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and leave a ransom note with payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Epoblockl 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. |
Epoblockl Virus – Distribution Techniques
Epoblockl virus is a new Hidden Tear-based strain which is being distributed by an unknown hacker or criminal collective. The detected attack campaigns appear to be launched mainly from the United States to other countries and regions, mainly countries in Northern Europe.
Such viruses are spread using several tactics at once in order to maximize the number of infected victims. We presume that the criminals behind them are going to popular scenarios and methods.
One of them relies on phishing email scams which are sent in bulk and disguised as originating from a well-known service or company that they use. The body messages will include messages and notifications that will coerce the recipients into opening a link leading to the virus file. An alternative approach is to directly offer an attached file to these emails.
The hackers can also construct fake web pages that impersonate well-known Internet portals, web pages, vendor sites and etc. Together with the email campaigns they are the primary distribution methods for malicious payloads. There are two popular types:
- Malicious Documents — The hacker group behind the Epoblockl virus can distribute it via macro-infected documents. Their built-in scripts will automatically launch a script that will download and execute the malware from a remote server. All popular document types can be used: databases, spreadsheets, presentations and text files. When they are opened by the users a notification message will appear asking them to run the built-in commands. If this is done the infection will begin.
- Malicious Setup Files —This strategy utilizes modified copies of well-known end-user software: creativity suites, system utilities or office programs. The hackers take the legitimate installers and embed the virus files in them. By being distributed through email messages and fake Internet portals the users may think that they are downloading a legitimate and safe application.
Such files can also be distributed via file-sharing networks, one of the most popular ones are the popular BitTorrent trackers. This is an often used as it is used to spread both legitimate and pirate content, especially software and games.
Massive virus campaigns with a wider outreach may adopt the browser hijacker approach. These are hacker-created browser extensions that are uploaded to the repositories of the most popular web browsers. Whenever they are installed the built-in settings will be modified to redirect the victims to a hacker-controlled page: the default home page, search engine and new tabs page. When this step has completed the Epoblockl virus will be deployed.
Epoblockl Virus – Detailed Analysis
The Epoblockl virus is base on the Hidden Tear malware family which is one of the most popular ransomware types. The source code of the main threat open-source and therefore easily acquired by both beginner and advanced hackers. This makes it very convenient to use as a base.
It is very possible that the criminal collective behind it has created this customization. The other hypothesis is that they have ordered it from the hacker underground markets.
Like other similar threats it will begin the infection with a data harvesting module. It is used to scan the system for variables that are used to construct an unique ID associated with each individual host: installed hardware components, operating system environment and user settings. This same component has been found to also look for strings that can directly expose the identity of the victims — their real name, address, email, phone number and any stored account credentials. It can scan both the local hard drive contents, operating system and data associated with the installed third-party apps.
The harvested information can also be used by another module used to bypass the security services available on the system. This is done by scanning for signatures of anti-virus engines, virtual machine hosts and sandbox environments. If the virus is unable to disable them it may opt to delete itself to avoid detection. The main virus engine can also create memory-guarded spaces which is an additional measure.
At this point the virus will have acquired control of the machines and will move onto causing changes such as the following:
- Windows Registry Changes — The ransomare engine can modify the entries belonging to the Windows registry belonging both to the operating system and any third-party installed applications. This can block certain functions or cause overall performance issues.
- Persistent Installation — The threat can be installed in a persistent state. This means that the Epoblockl virus will be launched every time the computer boots. This may also block access to the recovery menu which can render most manual removal instructions useless.
- Files Modification — The ransomware engine may delete sensitive user data such as System Restore Points, Backups and Shadow Volume data.
During its execution the Epoblockl virus may interact with the Windows Volume Manager and access any connected removable devices and network shares. This means that if a single computer on a given network is infected it can take over all potentially vulnerable hosts. Infections such as this one can also be used to deploy Trojan horses which are among the most dangerous types of malware. They will set up a client connection to a hacker-controlled server using a secure and persistent mechanism. This allows the operators to spy on the victims, take control over their computers and also deploy other viruses.
Epoblockl Virus – Encryption Process
As soon as all modules have completed the ransomware engine will be launched. It will use a built-in list of target file type extensions which will be processed with a powerful encryption algorithm. The captured samples showcase that the following files will be encrypted:
.7z, .asp, .aspx, .avi, .bc6, .bc7, .bkf, .bkp, .cas, .cer, .csv, .d3dbsp, .doc, .docx, .fos, .gdb, .gho, .hkdb,
.hplg, .html, .hvpl, .ibank, .icxs, .itdb, .itl, .itm, .m4a, .map, .mdb, .mdbackup, .mddata, .mov, .mp4, .odt, .php,
.pkpass, .png, .ppt, .pptx, .psd, .qdf, .qic, .rar, .sb, .sid, .sidd, .sidn, .sie, .sis, .sql, .sum, .svg, .syncdb,
.t12, .t13, .tax, .vdf, .wma, .wmo, .wmv, .xls, .xlsx, .xml, .zip, .ztmp
All victim files will be renamed with the .Epoblockl extension, an alternative one is .Crypted with a capital “C”. A ransomware note is produced in a file called EPOBLOCKL-NOTE.txt which reads the following:
Your files have been encrypted with AES-128
tommy.sanders@tutanota.com, 0btc.
Please pay immedantely
Remove Epoblockl Virus and Try to Restore Data
If your computer system got infected with the .Epoblockl 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.
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 Epoblockl virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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.
Epoblockl virus-FAQ
What is Epoblockl virus Ransomware?
Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl virus Infect?
Via several ways.Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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 .Epoblockl virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Epoblockl 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 .Epoblockl virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Epoblockl virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Epoblockl 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 Epoblockl 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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