The article presents detailed information about the MedusaLocker cryptovirus as well as a step-by-step guide on how to remove associated malicious files from the infected system and how to potentially recover .encrypted files.
MedusaLocker ransomware is a nasty crypto infection that encodes valuable personal files with the goal to blackmail victims into paying a ransom fee. The ransomware has been spotted in active attack campaigns. Victims can recognize the infection by the specific ransom note file HOW_TO_RECOVER_DATA.html that requires a purchase of a unique decryptor. Another sign of infection with MedusaLocker is the extension .encrypted appended to the names of all corrupted files.
Threat Summary
| Name | MedusaLocker |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Designed to encrypt valuable files stored on infected computers and then extort a ransom from victims. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encrypted and renamed with the generic crypto extension .encrypted A ransom message forces victims to contact hackers in order to receive instructions on how to buy a unique files decryptor. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails; Email Attachments; Corrupted Websites; Software Installers |
| 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 MedusaLocker. |
| 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. |
More About an Infection With MedusaLocker Ransomware
Security researchers reported the name of a new data locker ransomware that encodes personal files and renames them with suffix .encrypted
The ransomware is called MedusaLocker. This malicious software is developed to interfere with the settings of some essential computer components like the Registry Editor. By doing this, the ransomware becomes able to misuse system functionalities and complete several attack stages.
At first, the ransomware creates several additional malicious files and places them in folders like %AppData% and %LocalAppData%. Analyses of the infection flow reveal that the following executable files are dropped and executed on the system:
- Lossy.exe
- FIXUPDATE.EXE
With the help of the malicious files MedusaLocker ransomware established, it disguises its operations as legitimate Windows processes and invades the detection of active security measures. If the threat manages to complete all initial infection stages, it will activate a built-in cipher module to perform a data encryption process. When it reaches target files it will modify their code with the help of a strong cipher algorithm.
As a result, all encrypted files remain inaccessible until their code is revered back to the original state. In addition, they appear with the suffix .encrypted at the end of the name. Unfortunately, MedusaLocker virus is likely to corrupt all files that are likely to store valuable information such as:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Files corrupted by MedusaLocker ransomware will look like the files shown in the picture below:
As an additional precaution against easy data recovery, Medusa ransomware opens the Command Prompt panel on the background and executes the vssadmin.exe. As a result, all shadow volume copies created and stored by the Windows are permanently deleted.
In fact, the purpose of MedusaLocker ransomware virus is to blackmail you into paying a ransom fee to hackers. That’s why when it completes all infection stages, it drops a ransom message with instructions on how to continue with a ransom payment process.
Here is a copy of MedusaLocker ransomware ransom message which is named HOW_TO_RECOVER_DATA.html:
What happened?
Your files are encrypted, and currently unavailable.
You can check it: all files on you computer has new expansion.
By the way, everything is possible to recover (restore), but you need to buy a unique decryptor.
Otherwise, you never cant return your data.For purchasing a decryptor contact us by email:
Folieloi@protonmail.com
If you will get no answer within 24 hours contact us by our alternate emails:
Ctorsenoria@tutanota.com
What guarantees?
Its just a business. If we do not do our work and liabilities – nobody will not cooperate with us.
To verify the possibility of the recovery of your files we can decrypted 1 file for free.
Attach 1 file to the letter (no more than 10Mb). Indicate your personal ID on the letter:Attention!
– Attempts of change files by yourself will result in a loose of data.
– Our e-mail can be blocked over time. Write now, loss of contact with us will result in a loose of data.
– Use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions will result in a loose of data.
– Decryptors of other users are unique and will not fit your files and use of those will result in a loose of data.
– If you will not cooperate with our service – for us, its does not matter. But you will lose your time and data, cause just we have the private key.
According to the latest research tests performed by security experts, hackers have changed the contact email addresses. So now the ransom note of their threat shows the addresses – sambolero@tutanoa.com, suppdecrypt@protonmail.com and rightcheck@cock.li
You should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom sum to cybercriminals. This action does not guarantee the recovery of your .encrypted files.
How to Remove Medusa Ransomware Virus
The so-called MedusaLocker ransomware is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after the complete removal of all malicious files and objects created by MedusaLocker ransomware. That’s why it is recommendable that all steps presented in the MedusaLocker virus removal guide below should be completed. Beware that the manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide.
How to Recover .encrypted Files
There are several alternative methods that may be efficient for the recovery of .encrypted files. You could find them listed under Step 5 from our MedusaLocker ransomware removal guide. Beware that you should make copies of all encrypted files and save them on a flash drive for example. This additional step will prevent the permanent loss of encrypted .encrypted files.
Fix Computer Infected by MedusaLocker Ransomware
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 MedusaLocker with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by MedusaLocker.
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 MedusaLocker 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.
MedusaLocker-FAQ
What is MedusaLocker Ransomware?
MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker Infect?
Via several ways.MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker 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 .MedusaLocker files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .MedusaLocker 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 .MedusaLocker files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".MedusaLocker" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this MedusaLocker 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 MedusaLocker 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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- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
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