Users report activity by ransomware known as GPCODE. This particular virus uses a combination of a very strong encryption ciphers – RSA and AES, both used by the government to hide top secret files. Not only this, but the GPCODE creators have quite the laughs at the expense of the user, adding a .LOL (Laughing Out Loud) file extension and a “funny” clown-like ransom note. All users who have been affected should not pay any ransom money to the makers of this nasty malware and focus on removing it and restoring the files themselves. We advise reading this article completely to learn more about removing this ransomware and restoring the encoded data yourself.
Threat Summary
Name | GPCODE |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files with the RSA algorithm and AES-128 ciphers and asks a ransom for decryption. Reported to attack servers and office networks. |
Symptoms | Files are encrypted and become inaccessible. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a .txt file. |
Distribution Method | Spam Email Attachments pretending to be the delivery company UPS. |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Locky 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. |
GPCODE Ransomware – Methods of Infection
Since this particular ransomware also known as the JOKE virus is reported to infect servers which have Citrix environment. Citrix is a system of programs designed to help cut costs by running multiple devices in a network using a virtual environment. Such servers may usually be infected if information about their IP address is known somehow. Since systems such as Citrix centralize on one device and the traffic goes partially through that device this may be one method of spreading. Let us imagine that one user on the Citrix system of devices is careless and opens up one of the two main spreading methods reportedly associated with GPCODE:
- Malicious URLs.
- Malicious e-mail attachments.
Even if the network does not use such systems, GPCODE is also reported to spread and encrypt shared files between the devices in the network. This is why one compromised computer by GPCODE is a risk to the whole network.
Infected users have also reported that the ransomware was spread via email attachments that had the following subject:
- “Your UPS delivery confirmation.”
And this is not the worst part. System administrators of infected networks have also complained that this malware spreads via UNC paths which can be quite risky in multiple ways.
GPCODE Ransomware Viewed In Detail
Since a little is known about this ransomware, it is widely believed that it may situate files in the following file folders, containing different names:
After doing, so, GPCODE may modify the registry entries of the infected machine so that its file-encryption process starts when the PC is turned on. This is why we strongly advise users who believe they are infected not restart or power off their devices. The targeted registry key for this is:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Not only this, but the ransomware may use a unique file encryption method that consists of the two following ciphers:
- RSA – 1048
- AES – (128 or 256)
Researchers strongly believe that the AES algorithm is being used to encrypt the files GPCODE looks for whereas the RSA cipher is being used to encode the key which can be used to decrypt those AES files. This is particularly effective because even if the users have the decryptor provided by the cyber crooks, they cannot decrypt the key. And what is worse, is most malware writers set a unique private key, making the situation, even more, complicated.
Regarding the files it aims to encrypt, GPCODE is oriented towards as many commonly used file extensions as possible. It uses the .LOL file extension after it encrypts the data, for example:
- New Text Document.txt.LOL
Not only this, but the GPCODE ransomware is reported by infected users to add a “JOKE” ransom note, named “how to get data.txt”:
→ “JOKE
Hello boys and girls! Welcome to our high school “GPCODE”!
If you are reading this text (read this very carefully, if you can read), this means that you have missed a lesson about safety and YOUR PC HACKED !!! Dont worry guys – our school specially for you! The best teachers have the best recommendations in the world! Feedback from our students, you can read here:
1)https://forum.kaspersky.com.2)https://forum.eset.com 3)https://forum.drweb.com 4) www.forospyware.com As you see- we trust their training,only we have spesial equipment(cryptor.exe and decryptor.exe).Only here you will get an unforgettable knowledge!
The lesson costs not expensive. Calculate the time and money you spend on recovery. Time is very expensive, almost priceless.We think that it is cheaper to pay for the lesson and never repeat the mistakes.We guarantee delivery of educational benefits(decryptor.exe). First part(cryptor.exe) you have received :-)
SERIOUSLY
Your important files (photos, videos, documents, archives, databases, backups, etc.) which were crypted with the strongest military cipher RSA1024 and AES.No one can`t help you to restore files without our decoder. Photorec, RannohDecryptor etc repair tools are useless and can destroy your files irreversibly.
If you want to restore files – send e-mail to gpcode@mail2tor.com with the file “how to get data.txt” and 1-2 encrypted files less than 2 MB. PLEASE USE public mail like yahoo or gmail.
You will receive decrypted samples and our conditions how you`ll get the decoder. Follow the instructions to send payment.
P.S. Remember, we are not scammers. We don`t need your files. After one month all your files and keys will be deleted.Oops!Just send a request immediately after infection. All data will be restored absolutelly. Your warranty – decrypted samples and positive feedbacks from previous users.”Source: BleepingComputer
In addition to those, the ransomware may also spread out other files, such as a .RSA or .KEY file that contains the unique decryption key. The good news about it is that the cyber-criminals behind it may encrypt 1 or 2 files for free, and they do not demand a high amount of ransom payment (0.5 BTC which at the time of writing this is approximately 230$). Users who have paid the ransom have claimed that they were sent a decryptor containing their private key and were able to restore their files. However, we strongly advise considering other alternatives before funding cyber-crooks.
Remove GPCODE Ransomware and Restore Your Data
To remove this crypto malware, it is vital to isolate it, because like any other malware it may modify different settings of your PC to protect itself. This is why we recommend following the step-by-step instructions below for maximum effectiveness.
Unfortunately, there is no current solution for a direct file decryption that is working 100%, besides the reported ransom payment. However, we have prepared some alternative methods which you may want to try before paying any ransom. For more information on them check the step “Restore files encrypted by GPCODE”. Bear in mind that there is no guarantee that the methods will work for you.
Attention! SensorsTechForum strongly recommends that all malware victims should look for assistance only by reputable sources. Many guides out there claim to offer free recovery and decryption for files encrypted by ransomware viruses. Be advised that some of them may only be after your money.
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.
How to Remove GPCODE from Windows.
Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove GPCODE





Step 2: Uninstall GPCODE and related software 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 GPCODE 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 GPCODE 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: Scan for GPCODE with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by GPCODE.
Ransomware infections and GPCODE 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Get rid of GPCODE from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall GPCODE and remove related files and objects
1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:
- Go to Finder.
- In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
- Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
- If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.
In case you cannot remove GPCODE via Step 1 above:
In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:
You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:
→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons
Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.
Step 3 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by GPCODE.
Ransomware infections and GPCODE 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
GPCODE FAQ
What is GPCODE ransomware and how does it work?
GPCODE 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 algorithm how 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.
How does GPCODE ransomware infect my computer?
Via several ways.GPCODE Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing e-mails, 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.
After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.
Another way, you may become a victim of GPCODE 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 .GPCODE files?
You can't. At this point the .GPCODE files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted.
Decryptor did not decrypt my data. What now?
Do not panic and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .GPCODE files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
One way to restore files, encrypted by GPCODE ransomware is to use a decryptor for it. But since it's a new virus, advised that the decryption keys for it may not be out yet and available to the public. We will update this article and keep you posted as soon as this decryptor is released.
How Do I restore ".GPCODE" files (Other Methods)?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .GPCODE files.
These methods are in no way 100% guarantee that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How do I get rid of GPCODE ransomware virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti malware software. It will scan for and locate GPCODE ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .GPCODE files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like GPCODE ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts. Scanning your computer with an anti-malware software will make sure that all of these virus components are removed and your computer is protected in the future.
What to Do If nothing works?
There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:
- Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
- Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
- Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted it can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way to get back some of your files is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
- You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.
More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.
How to 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.