What Is .lockfile Virus
LockFile is the name of a newly discovered ransomware infection. Its primary purpose is to get into your computer and encrypt your personal files, like documents, videos, photos, and others, so that it can extort you to pay a ransom in exchange for your files’ decryption. The virus also leaves a ransom note file, called RLOCKFILE-README-{custom}.hta which contains the ransom instructions that aim to get you to pay the criminals the extortion fee it takes to make your files work again.
Read this article to learn how to remove LockFile virus from your computer and try to get your files to work again.
LockFile Summary
| Name | LockFile virus, also known as Win64:MalwareX-gen [Trj], Trojan.GenericKD.37457318, A Variant Of Win64/Filecoder.LockFile.A, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.GenericCryptor.lig, Trojan:MSIL/Cryptor – VirusTotal. |
| File Extension | .lockfile |
| 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 LockFile ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .lockfile extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | RLOCKFILE-README-{custom}.hta |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss LockFile. |
LockFile Ransomware Encryption
It is noteworthy that this ransomware uses a unique intermittent encryption in order to encrypt yur files. The cryptovirus encrypts every 16 bytes of a file in an attempt to evade detection by ransomware protection solutions. Apparently, a document encrypted this way looks very similar to the encrypted original.
LockFile Virus – More Details
LockFile virus is a ransomware infection and just like LockBit, Dts and Prometheus viruses, it may also end up on your computer by being sent to it via e-mail in the form of an e-mail attachment, or by being downloaded from a suspicious third-party website.
In case this malware is sent to you as an e-mail attachment, the infection file often pretends to be a reputable document, like:
- Invoices.
- Something work-related.
- Flight tickets.
- Purchase completed types of documents.
If you got your computer infected by downloading the virus from some shady website, then there is a significant chance the virus could exist in the form of:
- Portable program.
- Keygen (key generator).
- Patch.
- Setup for a freeware app.
- Crack.
Once having infected your computer, the LockFile ransomware may situate its files under random names, likely in the following Windows locations:
- %locallow%
- %AppData%
- %local%
- %Temp%
Then, this malware may tamper with the following registry sub-keys accross all main keys:
- RunOnce.
- Run.
What happens in those sub-keys is the LockFile virus ads custom values that may be used to determine where is the file it uses which is responsible for encrypting your data as this file is set to run each time you turn on Windows.
When the LockFile ransomware infects your computer, it may also leave its ransom note file. It contains the following text message:
LOCK FILE
Any attempts to restore your files with the thrid-party software will be fatal for your files!
Restore you data posible only buying private key from us.
There is only one way to get your files back:contact us
qTox ID: – hxxps://tox.chat/download.html
Email: contact@contipauper.comThrough a Tor Browser – recommended
Download Tor Browser – hxxps://www.torproject.org/ and install it.
Open link in Tor Browser – hxxp://zqaflhty5hyziovsxgqvj2mrz5e5rs6oqxzb54zolccfnvtn5w2johad.onion This link only works in Tor Browser!
Follow the instructions on this pageDo not try to recover files yourself. this process can damage your data and recovery will become impossible
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not waste time trying to find the solution on the Internet. The longer you wait, the higher will become the decryption key price
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our).
Tor Browser may be blocked in your country or corporate network. Use https://bridges.torproject.org or use Tor Browser over VPN.
Thanks to the warning wallpaper provided by lockbit, it’s easy to use
.lockfile Files
When lockfile enters your computer system, it begins to scan it for files to encrypt. The outcome of this is the following files may be encoded in a matter of seconds:
- Video files (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Audio (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Archives (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Document file types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Image files (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Other.
LockFile ransomware may also detect and encrypt the files outside system folders of Windows. The outcome is each file is with changed structure and may appear like the following:
File.jpg.lockfile
Remove LockFile Virus and Try to Restore Files
LockFile virus is the kind of application that can be removed properly if you follow the instructions below carefully. The most effective removal method according to security experts is to delete this application preferably by using advanced anti-malware software. Such an app is guaranteed to scan your computer thoroughly get rid of any malware automatically plus ensure that your system is protected against any infections in the future as well.
Furthermore, if you aim to try and recover your files, we have set up the alternative file recovery methods beneath. They are created with the main purpose to best assist you in recovering as many files as possible, but they do not come with any full guarantee to work for every virus, so bear that in mind.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for LockFile with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall LockFile 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 LockFile 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 LockFile 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 LockFile
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by LockFile.
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 LockFile 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.
LockFile-FAQ
What is LockFile Ransomware?
LockFile 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 LockFile 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 LockFile Infect?
Via several ways.LockFile 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 LockFile 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 .LockFile files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .LockFile 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 .LockFile files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".LockFile" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .LockFile 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 LockFile 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 LockFile ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .LockFile 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 LockFile 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 LockFile Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this LockFile 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 LockFile 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.