A dangerous virus created for Portuguese-speaking countries has been detected by malware research experts to use the .lok file extension and a strong cipher to encrypt files. The files which are encrypted by the Anatel virus can no longer be accessed by the user, and the ransomware drops a LEIA.txt readme file which notifies the user that he must contact the cyber-criminals’ e-mail address for most likely making a ransom payoff. The name Anatel comes from the Brazilian Agency for Telecommunications. Users who have become victims of the Anatel crypto-virus are given recommendations by experts to remove this threat immediately and instead of paying the ransom to seek alternative methods for file reverting. We suggest you to red this article to learn more about how to remove Anatel Ransomware and attempt alternative methods to revert your files.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Anatel Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users’ files and drops a ransom note afterwards. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom messages and “instructions” and the files encrypted with an added .lok file extension. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Anatel Ransomware. |
| 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. |
Anatel Ransowmare – How Does It Infect
To cause a successful infection, researchers believe that Anatel ransomware is spread via massive spam e-mail campaigns. Such campaigns are a very expensive investment because they may either contain malicious attachments or malicious URL’s and since most e-mail providers have spam defensive mechanisms nowadays, it becomes trickier and trickier to spread malware via this method. However, the cyber-criminals behind Anatel Ransomware may have used sophisticated technology to conceal the malicious files, such as process obfuscators and browser redirecting web links which lead to malicious JavaScript, Exploit Kit or drive-by download attacks.
Anatel Ransomware Viewed In Depth
When the user opens malicious files by Anatel Ransomware, it immediately drops the payload files. Here are some of the folders in which malicious files by Anatel Ransomware may exist:
- %AppData%
- %SystemDrive%
- %Local%
- %LocalRow%
- %User’s Profile%
- %System%
- %Windows%
After its malicious files have been dropped, the Anatel Ransomware virus may either run immediately or perform the safer action – modify registry keys to run when you start Windows. If it does so, you may find suspicious String Values associated with Anatel in the following Windows Registry Key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
and
Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
In the key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
and
Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
After the encryption process by Anatel Ransowmare is initiated, it is reported by Symantec(Symantec.com) researchers that it looks for widely used types of files to encode them:
After it has encrypted the files, Anatel Ransowmare may also connect to several malicious hosts associated with the following domain to send generated decryption keys and other system information:
Researchers report that the host name, the user’s profile name along with the keys is sent out to cyber-criminals. After this has been done, Anatel ransomware drops its LEIA.txt file which translates to the word “Read” in the following location:
The file contains a brief message written In Portoguese:
Exigmos o fim do bolqueio de franquias
Envie um email para {cyber-criminals’ e-mail address} para receber a senha
We are anonymous”
Approximate English Translation:
Anatel, the files were encrypted
We demand the end of the franchise block
Send an email to {cyber-criminals’ email address} to receive the password
We are anonymous
The encrypted files by this ransomware are appended the .lok file extension and they may look like the following:
So far it is quite unclear as to why the ransom note ends with “We are anonymous” and why Anatel’s name is involved but theorists believe that the money generated from this attack may be used in a hacktivist attack.
Anatel Ransomware – Removal and File Restoration Alternatives
To remove Anatel Ransomware, we strongly suggest using the instructions which we have provided after this article. In case you are experiencing difficulties in manually getting rid of this virus, we suggest using an advanced anti-malware program to get automatically rid of this virus.
To restore your files, we suggest the solutions which we have provided below in step “3. Restore files encrypted by Anatel”. They are not 100 percent guarantee you will get your files back; however they are worth a try. Also, we suggest using file decryptors since this Ransomware may have a so-called CBC mode which may break the files if a decryptor other than the original is used.
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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 Anatel Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Anatel Ransomware.
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 Anatel Ransomware 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.
Anatel Ransomware-FAQ
What is Anatel Ransomware Ransomware?
Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware 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 .Anatel Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Anatel Ransomware 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 .Anatel Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Anatel Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Anatel Ransomware 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 Anatel Ransomware 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.
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