This article has been created in order to best explain what is Lock2bits ransomware and how you can remove it from your computer.
The .Lock2bits virus is a malicious new sample that is derived from the Lockbit ransomware family. It is created by an unknown hacking group and organized against end users. Their main goal is to encrypt user files with a cipher and then blackmail them for ransom payment.
The .lock2bits extension will be applied to the target files and thereby marking them as such. This particular files virus can also cause other malicious actions, they will depend on the exact behavior pattern included in the campaign.
Threat Summary
Name | .lock2bits Virus |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | Lock2bits Ransomware aims to use encryption on your important files and then ask you to pay the sum of $300 to get the files to work again. |
Symptoms | Lock2bits Ransomware ads the .lock2bits extension to the encrypted files and drops a note. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .lock2bits 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. |
.Lock2bits Virus — How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
The .lock2bits virus is a derivative sample of the infamous Lockbit ransomware family, a collection of file encrypting malware that will follow the typical behavior patterns. Like other similar threats of its family it may be distributed using popular infection methods. They can be the following:
- Phishing Methods — The criminals behind the ongoing .lock2bits virus campaign may conduct various phishing attacks by embedding the files in email messages or uploading them to hacker-controlled pages. They are designed to impersonate companies and web services.
- Infected Files Distribution — The virus code may be placed in file carriers that when interacted with the ransomware will lead to an infection. This can include the insertion of such code in documents and application installers. They are modeled after data which is often downloaded and run by end users. They can be uploaded to file-sharing networks and social networks among other online communities.
- Direct Ransomware Attacks — Network attacks and direct exploits via malware toolkits may also be used to infect targets with ransomware.
.Lock2bits Virus — What Does It Do?
The ransomware is designed to encrypt target user files with a strong cipher. This is done by a cipher algorithm and using a list of target data. Commonly this includes the following: documents, application data, databases, archives, multimedia files and backups. These files, and others included in the list, will be locked and renamed with the .lock2bits extension. The victim users will be blackmailed into paying the hackers a decryption fee. This is done by creating ransom notes or even applying a lockscreen in order to extort them.
If configured additional malware modules may be integrated in the .lock2bits virus. They will execute additional actions that can lead to further damage to the computers. An example is system data extraction which may include both computer parameters and personal user information. This can be used for further crimes like identity theft and financial abuse.
The next module that can be launched is used by this virus may include system changes. This can include modifications to boot options, Windows Registry values and user preferences. This may lead to severe performance issues, data loss and the inability to run certain apps and services.
Some of the .lock2bits virus infections may also be programmed to deliver other malware, including dangerous remote control Trojans, web miners and others.
Remove .Lock2bits Virus and Try to Restore .lock2bits Files
For the removal of Lock2bits Ransomware, we strongly recommend that you follow up the removal instructions below. They are made to help you delete this virus step-by-step by using the manual below. Not only this, but also we strongly recommend that you download and run a scan with an advanced malware removal software. Such software has the capability of running a complete scan of your PC to eliminate all virus files, belonging to Lock2bits Ransomware plus protect your computer in the future as well.
If you want to try and restore files, encrypted by Lock2bits Ransomware, our advice is to wait and NOT pay the ransom. Not only you risk getting scammed by the crooks who might want more money, but also there could be free decryption in the near future. Another methods which you can try to restore files are listed below and they may not be 100% effective, but you could still try them.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .lock2bits Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .lock2bits 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .lock2bits 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 .lock2bits Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 .lock2bits Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .lock2bits 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 .lock2bits 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.
.lock2bits Virus-FAQ
What is .lock2bits Virus Ransomware?
.lock2bits 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 .lock2bits 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 .lock2bits Virus Infect?
Via several ways..lock2bits 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 .lock2bits 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 ..lock2bits Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..lock2bits 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 ..lock2bits Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..lock2bits Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..lock2bits 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 .lock2bits 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 .lock2bits Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..lock2bits 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 .lock2bits 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 .lock2bits Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .lock2bits 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 .lock2bits 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.
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