What Is Flamingo Ransomware (.LIZARD Virus File)?
.LIZARD file extension is placed on all of your files? .LIZARD Virus File is also known as Flamingo ransomware which locks files on a computer and demands money to be paid as a ransom for unlocking them.
Flamingo or otherwise known as .LIZARD Virus File is a ransomware type virus. It encrypts files by appending the .LIZARD extension to them, making them inaccessible. All encrypted files will receive the new extension. The Flamingo ransomware drops a ransom note, which gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly restore their data by paying a ransom fee.
Flamingo 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.
.LIZARD virus Summary
| Name | .LIZARD virus |
| File Extension | .LIZARD |
| 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 Flamingo ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .LIZARD extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | READ ME.TXT |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .LIZARD virus. |
.LIZARD Virus File – How Did It Infect My PC and What Happened?
.LIZARD virus files have been captured in an ongoing attack campaign. The collected copies of this threat have been confirmed to be related to a family of threats known as the Flamingo ransomware. At this time there is no information about the hacking group behind it, but we assume that they are an experienced collective. This is according to the way the virus is constructed — the code may have snippets and be sourced from other threats, but it is not a direct derivative.
Such viruses are frequently distributed using infected file carriers that aim to manipulate the users into thinking that they are accessing legitimate and safe content. The hackers mak them in commonly downloaded files from the Internet. Such files can be documents in phishing emails that have dangerous macros built into them. These are scripts that require the user’s approval to run. Documents that can carry these infections can be of all popular formats: spreadsheets, databases, presentations, and text files. A similar mechanism is the creation of malicious app bundles — these are the setup executables of commonly installed software. They are made by taking the original files and adding in the necessary virus code.
The .LIZARD virus data and related files can be distributed using common strategies, most of them will depend on the use of social engineering tricks. This means that the criminals will use templates, stolen design, and identities to make the data appear useful and safe. Commonly the hackers will create and send out in bulk email messages with the virus files linked or attached directly in them. This is done also with websites — they can be hosted on similar-sounding domain names to the ones which are impersonated. Like other common malicious threats, the .LIZARD virus files can be uploaded to various repositories, download portals, and file-sharing networks. They are common outlets for distributing online data.
As soon as the .LIZARD virus is started on a given machine, it will run the built-in execution sequence. It is very possible that this will be copied from other similar threats. Usually file-encrypting viruses (ransomware) will start with a data gathering module. It is configured to hijack both personal user’s data and system information. The collected information can be abused in crimes like identity theft. At the same time, the system information can be processed by another module to generate a unique identifier that is assigned to each compromised host. This ID can be made part of the encryption extension or quoted in the shown ransom note at a later stage.
What is more dangerous is the further system manipulation which can be exhibited in several areas:
- Boot Changes — The virus can be started as a persistent threat by modifying the boot options. This will enable it to start automatically when the computer boots. It can also disable access to the recovery menus, thereby making it very hard to follow most manual recovery guides.
- Windows Registry Changes — Any modifications to existing Windows Registry entries, or the creation of new ones, can result in severe performance issues, data loss, and unexpected errors.
- Additional Malware Installation — The .LIZARD virus can be used as conduits for the installation of other threats. As an example of a desktop threat, this particular ransomware can lead to the deployment of a Trojan horse infection — it is used to take over control of the victim computers, and thereby allow the criminals to take over control of them.
In the end the encryption module will be run. It uses a cipher to encrypt user’s data and make it inaccessible. This works for the most common files that are owned by the users: databases, multimedia files, documents, archives, backups, and etc. All of the encrypted files will be marked with the .LIZARD virus extension. In folders where there are affected files, the victims will find ransom notes (in text files) giving instructions on how to pay the hackers.
Remove .LIZARD Virus File
If your computer got infected with the .LIZARD 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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .LIZARD virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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.
.LIZARD virus-FAQ
What is .LIZARD virus Ransomware?
.LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD virus Infect?
Via several ways..LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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 ..LIZARD virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..LIZARD 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 ..LIZARD virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..LIZARD virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .LIZARD 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 .LIZARD 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.