This article explains the issues that occur in case of infection with .like files virus and provides a complete guide on how to remove malicious files and how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
The so-called .like files virus is identified to be data locker ransomware that belongs to Dharma threat family. Its main goal is to encode valuable files stored on infected devices with the help of sophisticated cipher algorithm. Afterward, hackers become able to extort ransom payment from victims who want to obtain the decrypter. In case of infection with this ransomware, all your important files could be renamed with the extension .like. This is a sure sign that their content cannot be accessed until their original code is restored.
Threat Summary
| Name | .like Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt files ostored on infected devices. Following data encryption, it demands a ransom payment for decryption solution. |
| Symptoms | Important files are corurpte and renamed with .like extension. A ransom message appears on screen to extort a ransom payment. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .like Files 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. |
.like Files Virus – Distribution
Security researchers reported that hackers are currently spreading this .like Dharma ransomware strain. Its distribution campaigns could be set against users worldwide.
It is most likely that the infection payload of .like files virus is spread with the help of malspam campaigns. E-mails that belong to these campaigns could contain one or more of the following components:
- A link that lands on compromised web page set to download and execute the infection file directly on the PC. It may be presented as in-text link, banner, image, button or direct URL address.
- A malicious file attachment that according to email text is a legitimate document. It could be uploaded in a .rar or .zip archive. Such a file could be set to evade active security measures and trick you into running the ransomware on your PC.
In addition, fake software installers, fake update notifications, compromised software setups, files shared on forums and other techniques may download and activate the ransomware module.
Variants of [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/skype-virus-remove/”]Skype viruses may be also part of the distribution scheme of .like files virus. By exploiting some security flaws of the software hackers could deliver their malicious code directly through this channel.
.like Files Virus – Overview
The .like files virus is a threat designed to compromise computer systems and encrypts valuable data stored on them. It has been identified to be a strain of the infamous Dharma ransomware.
In case of infection with this ransomware your system will be heavily damaged by the changes it applies. When loaded on the system, the payload file of the so-called .like files virus initiates a sequence of malicious activities that lead the attack through several infection stages.
First of all .like files virus should find a way to establish all needed malicious files and objects on the device. For the purpose it could be either connect to its command and control server and download the files or create them directly on the system. Several system directories are likely to store harmful files associated with the ransomware:
- %Roaming%
- %Windows%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
Analyses of .like files virus reveal that some of its associated files manipulate functionalities of legitimate system processes in an attempt to perform malicious activities without being detected by active security and analysis components.
As detected another issue caused by the ransomware is the automatic load of malicious scripts and applications on each system start. How this becomes possible is via certain changes of registry values. Since Run and RunOnce registry sub-keys have the functionality to auto-execute all files and objects set under them, they could be compromised by .like Dharma virus.
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
These sub-keys are used when the virus wants to load its ransom note on the screen. The note is dropped during the infection process. The note could be copied several times so that it could appear on your desktop as well as in folders with corrupted files. Its message is likely to urge you to contact hackers at GetDataBack@fros.cc so that they can send you details about the ransom payment process.
.like Files Virus – Encryption Process
Like some previous Dharma ransomware versions ([wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/combo-files-virus-dharma-ransomware-remove-restore-files/”].combo, [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/arrow-files-virus-dharma-ransomware-remove-restore-files/”].arrow, [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/bkp-files-virus-dharma-ransomware-remove-restore-data/”].bkp, etc.) Dharma .like crypto virus aims to utilize its built-in encryption module as it completes the primary infection stage.
This module could be set to utilize a single cipher algorithm or a combination of two cipher algorithms. One of these algorithms is considered to be the AES. Following encryption, valuable files become inaccessible due to essential changes of their code. Unfortunately, all of your important files could be affected by the ransomware including all your:
- Audio files.
- Videos.
- Image files.
- Databases.
- Archives.
How all corrupted files could be recognized is by the distinctive extension .like as it appears at the end of their names. Your access to information stored by .like files remains restricted and hackers attempt to blackmail you into paying them a ransom for their decrypter. However, there is no guarantee that they could provide you a working solution as the code of their threat could be broken.
Remove .like Files Virus (Dharama Ransomware) and Restore Data
Below you could find how a step-by-step removal guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove .like Dharma ransomware. The manual removal approach demands practice in recognizing traits of malware files. Beware that ransomware is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So it should be secured properly before it could be used regularly again.
The automatic approach enables you to check the infected system for ransomware files and remove them with a few clicks after the scan. Reliable anti-malware program is also one of the best ways to protect the PC from ransomware. Additional security layer that will prevent you from ransomware attacks is [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/the-most-popular-free-anti-ransomware-tools/”]anti-ransomware tool.
If you want to understand how to fix .like files without paying the ransom make sure to read carefully all the details mentioned in the step “Restore files” from the guide below. Beware that before recovery process you should back up all encrypted files to an external drive in order to prevent their irreversible loss.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for .like Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .like Files 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 .like Files 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 .like Files 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 .like Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .like Files 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 .like Files 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.
.like Files Virus-FAQ
What is .like Files Virus Ransomware?
.like Files 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 .like Files 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 .like Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..like Files 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 .like Files 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 ..like Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..like Files 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 ..like Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..like Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..like Files 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 .like Files 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 .like Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..like Files 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 .like Files 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 .like Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .like Files 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 .like Files 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.
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