Leeme Ransomware Virus
Leeme is a malicious piece of software known to act like a cryptovirus. Its purpose is to harass English and Spanish-speaking online users by encoding their important files and forcing them to pay a ransom.
The moment the payload file of Leeme ransomware lands on a computer system, the threat tries to activate it without being detected by any active security measures. Success enables the threat to damage essential computer settings and leave the infected system extremely vulnerable to additional malware attacks.
Unfortunately, ransomware infections like Leeme are programmed to encode personal files by which files remain out of order. Corrupted files could be recognized by the strange extension of four random letters appended to their original names. For their decryption extorts provide instructions on how victims can purchase the specialized tool. money for the decryption of valuable files. Trying the steps listed in the Leeme virus’ ransom note – leeme.txt, is highly inadvisable.
Leeme virus Summary
| Name | Leeme also known as Gen:Heur.Ransom.REntS.Gen.1 (BitDefender), Gen:Heur.Ransom.REntS.Gen.1 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.MSIL.Agent.gen (Kaspersky), Ransom:MSIL/Cryptolocker.EV!MTB (Microsoft) |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Malicious Extension | Different random extensions consisting of four letters for each of the encrypted files. |
| Ransom Message | leeme.txt |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt personal files stored on the infected computer. It demands a ransom for a decryption solution. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with different extensions of four random letters. Corrupted files remain unusable until their code is reverted back to the original state. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Websites, Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
Leeme Virus – Specifics and Imact
How does Leeme virus obtain access to computer operating systems? Ransomware infections like Leeme are well-known for their spread via channels like email, social media and torrent sites. Several common techniques could be used for the delivery of the Leeme virus on targeted PCs.
The list could include:
- Spam emails that feature malicious attachments or links to hacked sites.
- Links to hacked sites shared on social media channels, forums, torrents networks, emails, etc.
- Fake software updates.
- Torrent files.
- Freeware programs.
- Compromised files that run malicious scripts and payload droppers.
Leeme virus belongs to the most devastating type of malicious software – ransomware. Similar to other ransomware detected in the wild – Efdc virus, Gray Hat virus, Lqqw virus, Leeme infects PCs by altering essential system and security settings. The threat aims to misuse system functionalities for the completion of some of its nasty operations.
The end goal of the Leeme virus is to blackmail its victims to pay a hefty ransom fee. Here is why the ransomware runs a scan of all drives to locate target types of files that are likely to store valuable information.
All target files get encoded by the threat. The encryption process leaves them completely inaccessible. Various malicious suffixes will appear after the original names of encrypted files. Unfortunately, these files will remain inaccessible until their code is reverted to its original state.
This impact of the Leeme virus helps hackers to make victims more prone to pay a hefty ransom fee. All hackers’ demands are revealed by the ransom message leeme.txt. The ransom message has English and Spanish versions which suggest that the ransomware targets people who live in countries where those two languages are official.
Here is the message presented by the leeme.txt ransom note:
Hola! / Hi!
Su equipo ha sido infectado por un Ransomware TODOS SUS ARCHIVOS HAN SIDO CIFRADOS / Your computer has been infected by a Ransomware ALL YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED
NO ENTRE EN PÁNICO! / DON’T PANIC!
Para recuperar sus archivos debe seguir estos pasos al pié de la letra, deberá enviar 250 dólares en BITCOIN al siguiente wallet,una vez haya realizado el pago deberá ponerse en contacto con nosotros a través del siguiente email recoveryscmyfiles@mail2tor.com en el ASUNTO del email deberá especificar PAGO CUMPLIDO en el mensaje deberá especificar el WALLET desde el que nos REALIZÓ el pago,para poder verificar que es correcto,una vez verifiquemos que usted efectuó el pago nosotros le enviaremos un email con la herramienta para recuperar sus archivos,junto a las instrucciones de uso
/
To recover your files you must follow these steps at the bottom of the letter, you must send 250 dollars in BITCOIN to the following wallet, once you have made the payment you must contact us through the following email recoveryscmyfiles@mail2tor.com in the SUBJECT of the email must specify PAYMENT COMPLETE in the message you must specify the wallet from which you MADE the payment to us, in order to verify that it is correct, once we verify that you made the payment we will send you an email with the tool to recover your files, along with the instructions for use
=======================================================================
WALLET : 17CqMQFeuB3NTzJ2X28tfRmWaPyPQgvoHV
=======================================================================Si usted no realiza el pago NADIE podrá recuperar sus archivos /
If you do not make the payment, NOBODY will be able to recover your files
If you want to prevent falling victim to cyber criminals once again, you should not act as they request. Instead of thinking how to send $250 in Bitcoins to the provided BTC wallet, you should better consider the help of secure ways to fix the PC and recover some of the corrupted files.
Remove Leeme Ransomware Virus and Attempt to Restore Files
The so-called Leeme virus is a ransomware program that has highly complex code. It disrupts system security to encrypt personal files. Hence, the infected system could be used securely only after the full removal of malicious files and objects. By completing the steps presented below you have the chance to clean the system and improve its security. Beware that manual ransomware removal is suitable for experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps, navigate to the guide’s automatic part where you can find a download link for an advanced anti-malware tool. The guide provides data recovery information as well.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Leeme virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Leeme 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 Leeme 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 Leeme 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 Leeme virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Leeme 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 Leeme 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.
Leeme virus-FAQ
What is Leeme virus Ransomware?
Leeme 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 Leeme 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 Leeme virus Infect?
Via several ways.Leeme 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 Leeme 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 .Leeme virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Leeme 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 .Leeme virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Leeme virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Leeme 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 Leeme 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 Leeme virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Leeme 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 Leeme 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 Leeme virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Leeme 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 Leeme 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.
- 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.