This article is created with instructions to aid you to remove CryptoMix ransomware and try to restore .lesli encrypted files.
A ransomware virus, believed to be part of the CryptoMix malware family is believed to cause some infections and encrypt the files of the infected computers, asking ransom money in a text, named “INSTRUCTION RESTORE FILE.TXT”. In those instructions, the approximate sum of 0.5 to 1.5 BTC may be requested from the victims to pay to get a decryptor for the encoded files. In case you have become a victim of the .lesli virus, we advise you not to perform any payment or communication with the cyber-criminals and instead to focus on removing the malware and encrypting files encoded by this malware by yourself.
Threat Summary
| Name | .lesli CryptoMix |
| File Extension | .lesli |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions” linking to an e-mail for contact. Changed file-extension has been used to .lesli. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | README_files.txt |
| 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 |
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The .lesli Virus – Update April 2020
Lesli software is malicious and is a ransomware virus type. It continues to plague users’ computers even in April 2020. Not much has changed since it first emerged almost four years ago, but we now have a fresh variant of its ransom note. It is still named INSTRUCTION RESTORE FILE.TXT and it looks like the following:
The text states:
— INSTRUCTION RESTORE FILE —
All of you files are encrypted with RSA-2048.
More information about the RSA can be found here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RSA_(cryptosystem)Decrypting of files is only possible with the private key and decrypt program, which is on our server.
To receive your private key:
Contact us by email , send us an email your (personal identification) ID number and wait for further instructions.
Our specialist will contact you within 24 hours.E-MAILS:
supl0@post.com – SUPPORT;
supl0@oath.com – SUPPORT RESERVE;Please do not waste your time! You have 72 hours only! After that server double your price!
Your personal identification ID: 4dfb70f41e857d00
^_- LESLI SPYING ON YOU -_-
This is yet another evidence of how malware and viruses can remain active over many years and still search for the next victim.
How .lesli CryptoMix Ransomware Infects
For it to cause a successful infection, the criminals behind CryptoMix .lesli threat might perform several different actions. One of those is to obfuscate a malicious code or file and disguise it as a legitimate file for the file to fool an inexperienced user into opening it. This is achievable via the usage of socially engineered phishing e-mails containing fraudulent information, like the victim’s need to check his bank account balance sheet, for example. Opening the attachment results in the activating of a malicious script without Windows Firewall or any other defensive software detecting it (in most cases). After this is done, the virus begins to drop malicious files with different names in several Windows folders that contain different names:
CryptoMix .lesli Ransomware – Post-Infection Activity
As soon as the malicious files are dropped on your computer by the .lesli Infection module, the malware may begin to encrypt files of the following file types:
→ .sql, .mp4, .7z, .rar, .m4a, .wma, .avi, .wmv, .csv, .d3dbsp, .zip, .sie, .sum, .ibank, .t13, .t12, .qdf, .gdb, .tax, .pkpass, .bc6, .bc7, .bkp, .qic, .bkf, .sidn, .sidd, .mddata, .itl, .itdb, .icxs, .hvpl, .hplg, .hkdb, .mdbackup, .syncdb, .gho, .cas, .svg, .map, .wmo, .itm, .sb, .fos, .mov, .vdf, .ztmp, .sis, .sid, .ncf, .menu, .layout, .dmp, .blob, .esm, .vcf, .vtf, .dazip, .fpk, .mlx, .kf, .iwd, .vpk, .tor, .psk, .rim, .w3x, .fsh, .ntl, .arch00, .lvl, .snx, .cfr, .ff, .vpp_pc, .lrf, .m2, .mcmeta, .vfs0, .mpqge, .kdb, .db0, .dba, .rofl, .hkx, .bar, .upk, .das, .iwi, .litemod, .asset, .forge, .ltx, .bsa, .apk, .re4, .sav, .lbf, .slm, .bik, .epk, .rgss3a, .pak, .big, wallet, .wotreplay, .xxx, .desc, .py, .m3u, .flv, .js, .css, .rb, .png, .jpeg, .txt, .p7c, .p7b, .p12, .pfx, .pem, .crt, .cer, .der, .x3f, .srw, .pef, .ptx, .r3d, .rw2, .rwl, .raw, .raf, .orf, .nrw, .mrwref, .mef, .erf, .kdc, .dcr, .cr2, .crw, .bay, .sr2, .srf, .arw, .3fr, .dng, .jpe, .jpg, .cdr, .indd, .ai, .eps, .pdf, .pdd, .psd, .dbf, .mdf, .wb2, .rtf, .wpd, .dxg, .xf, .dwg, .pst, .accdb, .mdb, .pptm, .pptx, .ppt, .xlk, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xls, .wps, .docm, .docx, .doc, .odb, .odc, .odm, .odp, .ods, .odt.
After the encryption process has been completed, the virus may add a file extension that contains an e-mail address and the .lesli suffix. Files encrypted by .lesli remain locked until decrypted.
As soon as this has been completed, the .lesli virus may drop a .txt file, named “INSTRUCTION RESTORE FILE.TXT” that aims to notify the user of the situation and provide instructions on decrypting the files by paying a hefty ransom fee, which is highly inadvisable by malware researchers.
The .lesli Virus – Remove it and Try to Get the Files Back
To fully remove the ransomware from your computer, malware researchers strongly advise users to focus on using an advanced software for malware removal that will automatically take care of the threat. For this and more removal instructions, you may want to refer to the removal instructions below.
After having removed the .lesli CryptoMix variant, we have published several alternative methods in step “2. Restore files encrypted by .lesli CryptoMix” below, which aim to assist you in restoring at least some of the files. But, take into consideration backing up your files when you are performing this process because you may lose them forever by using some of the methods, like third-party decryptors, for example.
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 .lesli CryptoMix with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .lesli CryptoMix.
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 .lesli CryptoMix 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.
.lesli CryptoMix-FAQ
What is .lesli CryptoMix Ransomware?
.lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix Infect?
Via several ways..lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix 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 ..lesli CryptoMix files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..lesli CryptoMix 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 ..lesli CryptoMix files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..lesli CryptoMix" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .lesli CryptoMix 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 .lesli CryptoMix 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.