This article has been created to explain what is the purpose of the .LTML files virus and how to remove this infection from your PC plus how to try and restore files that have been encrypted by it on your computer.
Coming from the abbreviation Long Term Memory Loss, this ransomware infection aims to use the AES encryption algorithm to encrypt the important files on the computers infected by it and then demand a hefty ransom fee from it’s victim In order for the files to be restored back to their original state. In the event that your computer has been infected by the .LTML ransomware virus, in case it has begun infecting victims, your files are likely to have the .LTML file extension added to them. If this is the case, we recommend that you read the following article to learn how to remove this ransomware infection from your computer and how to restore files that have been encrypted by .LTML ransomware on your PC.
Threat Summary
| Name | LTML Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on the victim computer via AES encryption algorithm. Developed in Visual Studio 2017 |
| Symptoms | One of the main symptoms is the files encrypted with an added .LTML file suffux to them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss LTML 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. |
.LTML Files Virus – How Did I Get Infected
In order to become a victim of this ransomware virus, several scenarios may be possible, the most likely of which is to open a malicous e-mail attachment sent to your computer as a result of becoming tricked by a spam e-mail message. Such messages often contain deceitful texts, aiming to convince users that their attachments are important documents from the likes of:
- Invoices.
- Receipts.
- Order confirmation.
- Other important file.
In addition to this, the e-mails may also pretend to come from large companies as well, such as:
- FedEx.
- PayPal.
- Dropbox.
- eBay.
- Amazon.
The attachments themselves are usually executable files or documets for Microsoft Office which could contain malicious macros embedded within them which trigger the infection process. It is always advisable to scan such e-mail attachments prior to actually opening them.
In addition to via e-mail, this ransomware infection may also be spread via other methods, such as:
- Fake setup of software.
- Fake software activation program.
- Key generator (keygen).
- Crack fix for programs or games.
- License activators for various programs.
.LTML Ransomware – More Information and Activity
The .LTML ransomware is still in development stage but may have started infecting victims already. The malware may begin the infection process by connecting to a remote host and downloading it’s malicious payload. This payload consists of several module files that help the ransomware virus to escalate it’s privileges and conduct it’s malicious activities while uninterrupted. The files may be under different names, like:
- A name, imitating a program on your computer.
- A completely random Alpha-Numerical name that has uppercase and lowercase letters as well.
- Name of the ransomware virus (LTML).
The files may be located in various different folders in Windows, but the most targeted of those are the following:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %LocalLow%
- %Windows%
- %System32%
In addition to this, the LTML ransomware may also create registry entries in the following Windows registry sub-keys:
→ 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
This is likely done with the purpose to make it possible so that the malicious files of the LTML ransomware run automatically on your computer system as soon as Windows is booted up. In addition to those keys, the virus may also add registry entries in the following sub-keys as well in order to escalte several of it’s privileges:
→ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Authentication\LogonUI\Background
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Personalization
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\ScreenSaveTimeOut
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
Furthermore, the LTML virus may also delete shadow volume copies on the infected compute by running the following administrative commands in Windows Command Prompt without you noticing this:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet & bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no & bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures”
As soon as the malicious files of this ransomware virus are ran, it begins it’s encryption procedures.
LTML Ransomware – Encryption
In order to encrypt the files on the computers that have been infected by it, the LTML ransomware virus may begin scanning for various types of files that are used very often on the victim’s computer. Such files include:
- Documents.
- Videos.
- Images.
- Archives.
- Virtual Drive files.
- Adobe files.
The virus scans for the file extension of the files, which means that the following file types may be endangered of encryption, if your computer becomes infected by LTML:
“PNG .PSD .PSPIMAGE .TGA .THM .TIF .TIFF .YUV .AI .EPS .PS .SVG .INDD .PCT .PDF .XLR .XLS .XLSX .ACCDB .DB .DBF .MDB .PDB .SQL .APK .APP .BAT .CGI .COM .EXE .GADGET .JAR .PIF .WSF .DEM .GAM .NES .ROM .SAV CAD Files .DWG .DXF GIS Files .GPX .KML .KMZ .ASP .ASPX .CER .CFM .CSR .CSS .HTM .HTML .JS .JSP .PHP .RSS .XHTML. DOC .DOCX .LOG .MSG .ODT .PAGES .RTF .TEX .TXT .WPD .WPS .CSV .DAT .GED .KEY .KEYCHAIN .PPS .PPT .PPTX .INI .PRF .HQX .MIM .UUE .7Z .CBR .DEB .GZ .PKG .RAR .RPM .SITX .TAR.GZ .ZIP .ZIPX .BIN .CUE .DMG .ISO .MDF .TOAST .VCD SDF .TAR .TAX2014 .TAX2015 .VCF .XML Audio Files .AIF .IFF .M3U .M4A .MID .MP3 .MPA .WAV .WMA Video Files .3G2 .3GP .ASF .AVI .FLV .M4V .MOV .MP4 .MPG .RM .SRT .SWF .VOB .WMV 3D .3DM .3DS .MAX .OBJ R.BMP .DDS .GIF .JPG ..CRX .PLUGIN .FNT .FON .OTF .TTF .CAB .CPL .CUR .DESKTHEMEPACK .DLL .DMP .DRV .ICNS .ICO .LNK .SYS .CFG”
In order to encrypt the files on the infected computer, the LTML ransomware virus uses one of the strongest publicly available encryption algorithms out there, known as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). It generates an automatic file encryption and symmetric decryption keys that are random for each infection. The information then may be sent to the cyber-criminals whose primary purpose is to sell you a decrypter in order to get you to pay a hefty ransom fee in order to get it. The encrypted files may have the .LTML file extension and may appear like the image below:
How to Remove LTML Ransomware and Restore Your Files
In order to remove ransowmare viruses like LTML, it is important to isolate them from being operational. To do this, we recommend to follow the removal instructions down below. They are separated in automatic and manual removal instructions. If you lack the experience in malware removal, reccomendations are to remove LTML ransowmare automatically preferrably by downloading an advanced anti-malware software. Such will ensure that your computer is free from all malware without you having to reinstall your Windows and will protect your computer against infections like LTML in the future too.
If you want to restore files that have been encrypted by the LTML ransomware infections, we strongly advise that you focus on trying out our alternative ransomware recovery methods in step “2.Restore files encrypted by LTML Virus” below. These methods are not 100% guarantee that you will be able to restore all files encrypted by this virus, but they may help you recover at least some of the encoded data.
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 LTML Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall LTML 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 LTML 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 LTML 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 LTML Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by LTML 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 LTML 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.
LTML Virus-FAQ
What is LTML Virus Ransomware?
LTML 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 LTML 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 LTML Virus Infect?
Via several ways.LTML 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 LTML 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 .LTML Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .LTML 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 .LTML Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".LTML Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .LTML 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 LTML 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 LTML Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .LTML 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 LTML 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 LTML Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this LTML 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 LTML 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.