This is an article that provides specific details on FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE. In it, you will also find a step-by-step guide that helps for the removal process of all currently running malicious files from the system. Since your data is of paramount importance we included alternative recovery approaches that could potentially restore .locked files.
FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE is a crypto virus that encrypts all important files with strong cipher algorithm and demands ransom payment for their decryption. A trait of all encrypted files is the specific extension .locked appended to their names. As revealed by security experts the ransomware is primarily targeting English and Chinese speaking users. At this point, hackers demand a ransom of 0.18 BTC in order to provide the decryption key. The extortion happens with the help of ransom message that is contained in the file #DECRYPT MY FILES#.txt. In case that you are victim of this ransomware, this article will reveal you how to remove it and potentially restore encrypted files.
Threat Summary
| Name | FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A ransomware virus that aims to evade detection and encrypt files stored on the infected computer. It enables hackers to demand a ransom for decryption solution. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .locked extension. They remain unusable and a ransom of 0.18 BTC is demanded. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE. |
| 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. |
FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE – Distribution
As reported by security researchers active attack campaigns are currently spreading FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE primarily across English and Chinese speaking countries. However, its distribution campaigns could be set against users worldwide. The infection payload of this files virus like many others may be spread with the help of malspam e-mail campaigns. E-mails used for malicious purposes usually contain one or more of the following components:
- A link that lands on compromised web page set to download and execute the infection file directly on the PC.
- A malicious file attachment masked as a legitimate document and uploaded in a .rar or .zip archive. Such a file could be set to evade detection and this way tricks you into allowing the ransomware to start on your PC.
In addition, fake software installers, fake update notifications, compromised software setups, files shared on forums and other techniques may download and activate the ransomware module.
Variants of [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/skype-virus-remove/”]Skype viruses may be also part of the distribution scheme of this FileLocker ransomware. By exploiting some security flaws of the software hackers could deliver their malicious code directly through this channel.
FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE – Infection Overview
For the infection to begin FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE needs to start its payload on the system. The file is called Windows Update.exe and its purpose is to trigger a sequence of malicious actions that enable the ransomware to reach the encryption stage.
Among the impacts caused by this ransomware could be heavy system settings modifications, registry changes and manipulation of various legitimate processes. In order to complete the attack FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE should generate or drop additional malicious files except the payload. Where it may store these files are some important system folders among which are:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
When predefined registry keys are affected the ransomware could become able to run its malicious files on each system start which in turn enables it to encrypt all newly created files. Affected sub-keys are usually Run and RunOnce as they manage the initial execution process of all system files and processes essential for the proper system load. How the ransomware compromises them is by adding special values associated with its harmful files.
For instance, the final stage when FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE informs victims about its presence is realized by manipulation of RunOnce sub-key functionalities. Certain values support the display of its ransom note on the screen. Below you could see more details about the ransom note.
How it looks like:
What it states:
All your important files have been encrypted!
If you understand the importance of the situation
Please read the “#DECRYPT MY FILES#.txt” on the desktop to contact us
The message presented by this note is also illustrated in Chinese. The indicated file #DECRYPT MY FILES#.txt contains the following message:
FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE
###########################################
All your important files(database,documents,images,videos,music,etc.)have been encrypted!and only we can decrypt!
To decrypt your files,follow these steps:
1.Buy 0.18 Bitcoin
2.Send 0.18 Bitcoin to the payment address
3.Email your ID to us,after verification,we will create a decryption tool for you.
Email:bakfiles@protonmail.com
Payment:3EZGS8P439PbBeiWjsGYjSSaRHn9CXKDRQ
Your ID:_
F5gVQOzbJYHmlL5OIvCitfMr2fGxaC4Ez1uk8/HdmGjrkkgd4mcM/NHJgOJxkpzyazTg==***
In addition, FilesLocker ransomware could open a notification window to present the following information:
All your important files have been encrypted!
If you understand the importance of the situation
Please read the “#DECRYPT MY FILES#.txt” on the desktop to contact us
All your important files are encrypted!
#What happened?
All your important files(database, documents, images, videos, music, etc.)have been encrypted!and only we can decrypt!
To decrypt your files, you need to buy the decryption key from us. We are the only one who can decrypt the file for you.
#Attention
Trying to reinstall the system and decrypting the file with a third-party tool will result in file corruption,which means no one can decrypt your file.(including us), if you still try to decrypt the file yourself, you do so at your own risk!
#Test decryption
As a proof,you can email us 3 files to decrypt,and we will send you the recovered files to prove that we can decrypt your files.
#How to decrypt
1. Buy 0.18 Bitcoin
2. Send 0.18 Bitcoin to the payment address
3. Email your ID to us, after verification, we will create a decryption tool for you.
Remember, bad things have happened, now look at your determination and action!
Your ID
Payment
We advise you to refrain from following these instructions as you could still have your files corrupted and useless even after you pay hackers the demanded ransom of 0.18 BTC.
FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE – Encryption Process
Soon after all needed system modifications are made the crypto virus FilesLocker continues with the main infection stage – data encryption. For it, the ransomware utilizes strong cipher algorithm that scan predefined system drives for commonly used types of files. Each time it detects a match, it performs an encoding process that leaves the file out of order.
As of the types of files that may be encrypted by FilesLocker ransomware they may be all your:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Corrupted files could be recognized by the extension .locked that is appended to their original names.
Remove FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE and Restore .locked Files
Below you could find how a step-by-step removal guide that could be helpful in attempting to FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE. Since the manual removal approach demands a bit of technical knowledge and experience with recognizing malicious traits, the guide provides an automatic approach as well. Beware that ransomware is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system which in turn limits its regular and secure usage. So let’s begin with the removal..
Unfortunately, at this point, there is no evidence of any free decryption tool that works for this ransomware. The good news is that there are some alternative data recovery methods that may be helpful in restoring .locked files. So make sure to get familiar with the details listed under our “Restore Files” step. Beware that before the beginning of a recovery process you should back up all encrypted files to an external drive and this way prevent their irreversible loss.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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 FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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 FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE.
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 FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE-FAQ
What is FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE Ransomware?
FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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 FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE Infect?
Via several ways.FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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 .FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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 .FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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 FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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 FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the FilesL0cker RAN$OMWARE 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.
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