This material is created to help you on how to remove the Pr0tector ransomware virus and restore files encrypted with the .pr0tect file extension.
“READ ME ABOUT DECRYPTION.txt” is the ransom note used by the .pr0tect file virus also known as Pr0tector ransomware. The malware’s only goal is to infect the computers of unsuspecting users and encrypt the files on them. The encrypted files on the compromised computers contain the .pr0tect file extension, lack an icon and cannot be opened. In the ransom note, the virus demands users to contact one of the two emails – pr0tector@india.com and pr0tector@tutanota.com. In case you have been infected by this virus, it is advisable to not pay the ransom and read this article thoroughly instead.
Threat Summary
| Name |
.pr0tect File Virus |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using a strong encryption algorithm, making direct decryption possible only via a unique decryption key available to the cyber-criminals. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions”, called “READ ME ABOUT DECRYPTION.txt” linking to the contacts of the cyber-criminals. Changed file names and the file-extension .pr0tect has been used. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss .pr0tect File 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. |
.pr0tect File Virus – Infection Methods
The Pr0tector ransomware is no different than any other threat out there. The virus uses different malicious loaders which cause the infection by running obfuscated scripts which latter connect to the c2 servers of the cyber-criminals. These intermediary infection files are usually used in multiple different ways to deceive you into opening them:
- In spam e-mails that are focused on tricking users with deceptive messages to open them as attachments.
- As fake setups of programs posted on suspicious websites.
- As files that pose as game cracks or program patches on torrent websites.
- As fake updates.
- Via other malware that may have already infected your computer.
Via potentially unwanted programs that may in some scenarios cause an infection by causing browser redirects or different types of third-party malvertising, which if clicked on executes a script.
.pr0tect File Ransomware – Infection Activity
After the infection happens, the malicious files of this ransomware infection are dropped on the infected computer, and they may reside in the following Windows folders:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Local%
- %LocalRow%
- %Common%
After the files are dropped, multiple processes of the compromised machine may be used to make sure that several settings on it are modified. One of those may be the deletion of shadow volume copies by executing a set of commands:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c
vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no
bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
The virus may also create String Values with custom data which leads to the location of the malicious executables of this ransomware infection. These executables may be set to run on startup. The same may be done to change the wallpaper on the infected computer. The usually targeted registry keys that may be used by the .pr0tect file virus are the following:
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop\
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
After this has happened, the .pr0tect virus may cause an error message to appear on the compromised computer and then either perform the encryption directly or force restart the machine and do the encryption process on system boot.
.pr0tect Ransomware – Encryption Process Explained
Regarding encryption, this particular ransomware may attack widely used file types. Such are file types associated with:
- Documents.
- Pictures.
- Videos.
- Audio files.
- Image files.
Once this ransomware virus has already performed the encryption process, it may change the file extensions on the encrypted files. The extension changed is .pr0tect, and the files appear like the following image:
The files encrypted by the .pr0tect virus can no longer be opened, and the virus opens a ransom note to make sure the user is aware of it’s presence on the computer – READ ME ABOUT DECRYPTION.txt:
Your files were encrypted.
Your personal ID is: {Unique ID Tag}
To buy private key for unlocking files please contact us:
pr0tector@india.com
pr0tector@tutanota.com
Please include the ID above.
After this, the user may receive instructions on how to pay a hefty ransom fee to get his/hers files back.
Remove .pr0tect Ransomware and Try Getting Back Files
For the removal of this ransomware infection, multiple different things should be done. One is to completely isolate the threat first, and the other is to back up the encrypted files, just in case. To do this, we recommend you to follow the removal instructions below. They are carefully created to help you delete the files encrypted by this ransomware infection. If you are experiencing difficulty in removing the files yourself, experts outline advanced anti-malware tool as the best automatic removal option. It will not only eliminate all files associated with this ransomware infection but will also ensure protection in the future.
For the file recovery process, unfortunately, there is no direct decryptor for this ransomware infection as this virus is still in early stages. However, you can try using copies of the encrypted files in other methods of file recovery and decryption. We have posted several suggestions below in step “2. Restore files encrypted by pr0tect” and you should try them, even though they are not 100% guarantee to get all your files back.
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .pr0tect File Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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.
.pr0tect File Virus-FAQ
What is .pr0tect File Virus Ransomware?
.pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File Virus Infect?
Via several ways..pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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 ..pr0tect File Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..pr0tect File 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 ..pr0tect File Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..pr0tect File Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .pr0tect File 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 .pr0tect File 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.
hi, can you share hash or samples?