AstraLocker Virus Files
AstraLocker virus files is how a malicious computer program is called. It acts like a data locker ransomware that locks personal files in order to force victims to pay a ransom fee. There is no information that confirms the origin of this cryptovirus. Its name is a derivative of the malicious extension it appends to all files it encrypts. For the final attack stage, AstraLocker drops its ransom note file (read_it.txt) that presents victims with further instructions on how they can pay the ransom and obtain the decryption tool.
In this article, you will find more information about the AstraLocker virus as well as a step-by-step guide on how to remove malicious files from an infected computer system. You can potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware by using some of the alternative data recovery methods listed at the end of the guide.
AstraLocker ransomware Summary
Name | AstraLocker |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | A data locker ransomware that encodes personal files by utilizing complex cipher algorithms. The process leaves files useless. The impact serves hackers’ purposes to blackmail victims into paying ransom for a decryption solution. |
Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with the .AstraLocker extension. A ransom message attempts to extort a payment in cryptocurrency. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Sites |
Detection Tool |
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AstraLocker Ransomware – Distribution and Impact
The AstraLocker ransomware attacks operating systems after the activation of its payload on them. In order that the payload file could run on target machines, special techniques should be used by hackers. Usually, ransomware campaigns are realized with email spam messages that feature attachments or links. The emails that try to deliver malware on PCs are often configured to impersonate representatives of well-known businesses, websites, and governmental institutions sometimes. As a consequence, people are more prone to interact with the presented malicious elements.
The execution of AstraLocker on a computer is followed by the completion of a long sequence of malicious operations set in its code. After it contaminates essential system settings, the virus reaches the main phase of the attack – the encryption of valuable personal data.
With the help of an in-built encryption module, AstraLocker ransomware scans system drives for target files and applies changes to their original code. Strong cipher algorithms are likely to be used by the threat. Hence, the decryption of .AstraLocker files is a very hard process.
An eventual decryption approach for .AstraLocker files is the one mentioned in the ransom note of this virus. Its note is created under the name read_it.txt on all infected systems. Certain unwanted changes applied by the ransomware to Windows Registry could enable the threat to misuse the functionalities of the RUNONCE key and load its ransom message on the screen.
Here is what this file may be stating:
AstraLocker
All of your files have been encrypted.
Your computer was infected with a ransomware virus. Your files have been encrypted and you won’t be able to decrypt them without my help.
What can I do to get my files back?
Yeo can uy my decryption software, this software will allow you to recover all of your data and remove the Ransomware from your computer.
The price for the software is 50$. Payment can be made in Monero, or Bitcoin (Cryptocurrency) only.
How do I pay, where do I get Monero?
Purchasing Monero or Bitcoin varies from country to country, you are best advised to do a quick google search yourself to find out how to buy Monero or Bitcoin.
Amount of Monero to pay: 0.20 XMR (Monero)
Monero Address:
Bitcoin Address:
After payment contact: AstraRansomware@protonmail.com for decryptor
You should better not risk your online security once again. We recommend that you don’t act like hackers demand you to do. Answering hackers and trying to follow their guidance does not guarantee successful recovery of .AstraLocker files. It will be better if you deal with the problem by using the help of trustworthy weapons of choice.
Remove AstraLocker Ransomware Virus and Restore Data
AstraLocker virus can corrupt both system settings and valuable data. The only way to use your infected system in a secure manner again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For this purpose, you could use the removal guide below. It reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step. In addition, the guide shows a few alternative data recovery approaches that may be helpful in attempting to restore files encrypted by this ransomware. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before you initiate a data recovery process.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for AstraLocker ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall AstraLocker 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 AstraLocker ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker 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.
AstraLocker ransomware-FAQ
What is AstraLocker ransomware Ransomware?
AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker 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 .AstraLocker ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .AstraLocker 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 .AstraLocker ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".AstraLocker ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this AstraLocker 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 AstraLocker 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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