This article has been created in order to explain what is the Loda Trojan and how to remove this malware completely from your computer.
The Loda Trojan is a newly discovered dangerous Trojan that infects computers and can inject itself deep into the system. It contains advanced functionality which allows hackers to easily take over control of the machines. Our removal guide features a detailed explanation of the Trojan’s mechanisms of operation, as well as instructions on restoring the infected computers from the infections.
Threat Summary
| Name | Loda Trojan |
| Type | Trojan Horse Virus |
| Short Description | Silently infects the target machines and modifies key applications and system services. |
| Symptoms | The user may not experience any signs of infiltration. |
| Distribution Method | Malicious web links, Malicious Files, Malicious E-Mails |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Loda Trojan. |
Loda Trojan Overview
This is a revamped version of a previous generation malware called the Nymeria Trojan. Loda Trojan was one of the alternative names under which Nymeria was known however the recent update brings forth a lot of newer functionality and changes in the sequence. The virus has changed a lot and security researchers have observed a new attack campaign. This iteration of the Loda Trojan is written in AutoIT — a popular scripting language used for setting up scheduled tasks and running commands.
At this time the Loda Trojan is mainly distributed via infected office documents — they can be text documents, presentations, databases and spreadsheets or XML files. When opened by the victim users the built-in scripts will load another document (possibly from a remote host) which will contain an exploit. This will trigger the actual infection. In the current campaign the target countries are The United States, Argentina, Brazil and Costa Rica.
Loda Trojan Capabilities
The recent versions of this Trojan are rated as dangerous due to the low detection ratio — the malware engine uses several obfuscation techniques at one. They have been placed in order to hide the virus from any security services and user-installed applications. One of the distinct ways through which this is done is the multiple step-by-step infection sequence. The victim users need only to launch a single macro-infected document to engage the complex chain of commans that will ultimately lead to the Loda Trojan installation.
The second document which will actually deploy the virus will attempt to exploit a vulnerability tracked in the CVE-2017-11882 advisory. This is an issue that is found within most of the unpatched contemporary versions of the Microsoft Office suite. The insecure installations will allow remote attackers to execute code by taking advantage of the way the application handles memory — an issue that is also known as a Memory Corruption Vulnerability.
As soon as the Loda Trojan starts on a given host it will immediately unpack itself to the AppData directory of the local user thus making hard to detect. An unique identifier will be generated for each individual host — this will prevent discovery by ordinary black lists.
One oft the first actions which are run after the infection is started is to gather sensitive data from the contaminated machines. There are two categories of information which are hijacked:
- Personal User Information — They will gather all data that may or may not include personal information about the victim users. This is commonly used to construct a profile allowing the hackers to conduct further crimes such as identity theft and financial abuse.
- Machine Information — This includes detailed information about the installed hardware parts and the software configuration. Specific data includes operating system version information, the used architectures and the active usernames.
The Loda Trojan is also installed as a persistent infection — it will be launched every time the computer is powered on. This is done by adding in the necessary Windows Registry keys and a scheduled task as set in the operating system. The new version of the Loda Trojan now includes the ability to read thte contents of the main Filezilla FTP application if it is installed on the victim machine. This will allow the hackers to steal the credentials in the saved servers list. The security analysis also shows that it will run a command called QURAN which will stream music from a remote server. This is done via Windows Media Player using the MMS protocol which is no longer used.
We anticipate that other common functionality will also be included in the forthcoming and ongoing attacks — the ability to take over control of the contaminated hosts using a remote desktop function. This will allow the hackers to spy on the actions of the users, hijack their files and manipulate the user input.
There are several alternative signature names under which the Loda Trojan may also be detected:
- Win.Packed.LokiBot-6963314-0
- Doc.Exploit.Cve_2017_11882-7570663-1
- Doc.Downloader.Loda-7570590-0
Remove Loda Effectively from Windows
In order to fully get rid of this Trojan, we advise you to follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They are made so that they help you to isolate and then delete the Loda Trojan either manually or automatically. If manual removal represents difficulty for you, experts always advise to perform the removal automatically by running an anti-malware scan via specific software on your PC. Such anti-malware program aims to make sure that the Loda is fully gone and your Windows OS stays safe against any future malware infections.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for Loda Trojan with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Loda Trojan.
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 Loda Trojan 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.
Loda Trojan-FAQ
What is Loda Trojan Ransomware?
Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan Infect?
Via several ways.Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan 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 .Loda Trojan files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Loda Trojan 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 .Loda Trojan files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Loda Trojan" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Loda Trojan 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 Loda Trojan 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.
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