What are Lokf virus? How to open Lokf virus? How to remove Lokf virus virus and try to recover Lokf virus files?
Yet another variant of the notorious STOP ransomware family of viruses has resurfaced carrying the name Lokf virus. The main objective of these viruses is to encrypt the files on your computer and hold them hostage until you pay a ransom in BitCoin to get them to work again. Read this article to understand how you can remove the Lokf virus and how you can try and restore your files.
Threat Summary
| Name | Lokf virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A cryptovirus that encodes your files and wants you to pay a big ransom in order to get the encrypted files to work again. |
| Symptoms | Files have the .lokf virus extension. The virus also shows a ransom note, called _readme.txt. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Lokf 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. |
Decrypt Lokf Virus Ransomware – Update November 2019
The good news for all victims of STOP Lokf ransomware is that the security researcherс found weaknesses in the code of this variant and released an updated version of the free STOP ransomware decryption tool.
So the moment you remove all malicious files and objects from your infected system you can enter our data recovery guide where you will find a download link for the free Lokf decryption tool and learn how to proceed with the decryption process.
Have in mind that the tool is designed to support specific offline and online IDs, so it may not be effective for all occasions of Lokf virus ransomware infections.
Lokf Virus – Fresh Information Spotted Around the Web
According to the researcher who discovered the Lokf variant of STOP Ransomware, Michael Gillespie, this infection can cause massive ammount of damage to victims and is still undecryptable. The researcher tweeted in call for the victims of the viruses to send him information so that he can attempt to devise decyptor:
https://twitter.com/demonslay335/status/1192847471170457605
Lokf virus has come out during November, 2019 and has been hitting computers ever since. The ransomware aims to slither past defenses of Windows, utilizing concealing techniques and exploits to assume rights as administrator. Then, the victims have their files encrypted and the virus sets the ransom note _readme.txt that has two new e-mails for contact. Unlike the previous e-mails used (gorentos e-mails), the new ones look like the following:
- salesrestoresoftware@firemail.cc
- salesrestoresoftware@gmail.com
The main virus file of Lokf virus had the following information embedded in it:
Lokf Virus – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
Lokf virus may enter your computer in a variety of ways, the main of which could be having the virus files uploaded online. The Lokf virus can be uploaded on several suspicious websites, where it may pretend to be a completely legitimate type of setup, program, patch, portable software, crack or key generator. The main idea is for victims to get tricked into downloading and running the virus file, which when executed exploits weaknesses in your computer in order to make a silent infection.
When the Lokf virus is added to your computer, it may immediately show its presence by obtaining administrator rights and starting to encrypt your files. The files that are encrypted by the Lokf virus are with the Lokf virus file extension.
Not only this, but the Lokf virus also drops a ransom note on victimized computers and this note aims to threaten you that there is a risk for you to never see your files again if you do not pay the hackers behind the Lokf virus ransom in BitCoin. The note is named _readme.txt and it has the following contents:
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry my friend, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you. This software will decrypt all your encrypted files. What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool: https://we.tl/t-1aaC7npeV9 Price of private key and decrypt software is $490. Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490. Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment. Check your e-mail “Spam” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.
To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
Reserve e-mail address to contact us: Your personal ID:
If you have been infected by the Lokf version of STOP Ransomware we strongly recommend that you not pay the ransom and backup all of the Lokf virus files so that you can restore them for free later on, when a decryptor comes out. For this family of viruses, a decryptor takes about a week time to be released by malware researchers and it can get your files back absolutely for free.
Remove Lokf Virus and Try to Restore Encrypted Files
If you want Lokf virus ransomware completely gone from your computer, we do recommend that you read the instructions underneath this article. They have been created to help you to remove this virus step by step from your computer. If you cannot manually find and delete all Lokf virus files, then do not worry, because you can remove them automatically. According to security experts, the most reccommended type of removal is if you download and run a scan of your computer by using an advanced anti-malware software. This program will effectively make sure to thoroughly detect and eliminate all Lokf virus files and protect your machine in the future as well.
Not only this, but to restore files, encrypted by the Lokf virus, we suggest that you also check out the alternative methods for file recovery below. They may not come with a 100% file restore guarantee, but with their aid you may be able to restore some of them at least.
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 Lokf virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Lokf 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 Lokf 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 Lokf 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 Lokf virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Lokf 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 Lokf 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.
Lokf virus-FAQ
What is Lokf virus Ransomware?
Lokf 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 Lokf 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 Lokf virus Infect?
Via several ways.Lokf 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 Lokf 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 .Lokf virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Lokf 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 .Lokf virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Lokf virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Lokf 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 Lokf 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 Lokf virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Lokf 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 Lokf 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 Lokf virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Lokf 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 Lokf 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.
Apakah cara ini benar benar bekerja untuk mengembalikan file yang sudah dubah exsistensinya menjadi lokf ?
Me desgracio la maquina el virus ese
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.
To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
Your personal ID:
0181jYgs9f6s2dtHwFeNncD3A3Pk9nhqZPAqimosK9ycY00modivR
Decrypt files to work on attacked computer or not (on another)?