In this article, you will find more information about a ransomware infection called PicoVirus as well as a step-by-step removal guide on how to get rid of all malicious files created by this threat. You will also find information on how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
PicoVirus Ransomware Infection
The PicoVirus ransomware is another cryptovirus that has been detected in the wild. Once activated on a computer system it damages essential settings and leaves the system extremely vulnerable to future malware attacks. In fact, the main goal of this data locker ransomware is to extort a ransom fee from its victims. That’s why it scans the infected system for certain types of files that are likely to store valuable personal information and encodes them with a sophisticated cipher algorithm. Once encrypted the files remain inaccessible. They could be recognized by the extension .picocode that is appended to their names as shown in the picture on the right. To blackmail victims, PicoVirus ransomware drops the file README.txt which contains a ransom message by hackers.
Threat Summary
Name | PicoVirus ransomware |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Malicious Extension | .picocode + several characters like #8523! |
Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt personal files stored on the infected computer. It demands a ransom for a decryption solution. |
Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with a long sequence of extensions which ends with the .picocode extension. Corrupted files remain unusable until their code is reverted back to original state. |
Ransom Message | README.txt |
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 PicoVirus 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. |
PicoVirus Ransomware (.picocode Files) – Overview
Typically, ransomware actors spread their malicious software via mass spam email campaigns.
There are several traits that may help you recognize a malicious email and prevent nasty malware like PicoVirus from infecting your system in future. First, pay attention to the email sender. Oftentimes, the email sender poses a representative of a well-known company but the email address itself looks strange and contains some unusual symbols. Second, if there is an attached file, refrain from opening it before you check whether it is secure or dangerous. To ensure that you can open the attached file on your PC without allowing it to infect the system with malware, scan the file with an online virus scanner or with an installed anti-malware software. Third, do not click on presented links until you are sure that they won’t open a corrupted web page in your web default browser.
How does the infection process with PicoVirus begin? The PicoVirus ransomware infection process begins the moment its payload file is executed on a target computer system. Once started on the system, the payload file triggers lots of malicious operations that support the several phases of the ransomware attack.
By executing additionally malicious files in a predefined order so that it can disrupt system security, corrupt essential system settings, and activate its in-built cipher module without being interrupted.
As a way to force its victims into paying a ransom fee to hackers, PicoVirus drops a ransom message file on infected systems. This file is called README.txt and its contents state the following:
PicoVirus
Pico v1.1
Your files are encrypted.
This means you cannot access your files if they are encrypted you can’t watch, edit, use them.
Try something funny and we will delete all your files.
All your files are encrypted with.
256-bit encryption is refers to the length of the decryption key used to encrypt a data stream or file. A hacker or cracker will repy.
After 2 minutes of receiving the payment, the decryption tool will be send to you.
To decrypt your files,
Follow next steps:
1. Send 100 (0.02 BTC) to the Bitcoin wallet or other paying method if requested.
Bitcoin wallet: 17RaYJ7ULTZARS5nsroGUVRc7g2kF18azM
2. Send your MachineID:
0303d5b4-ffe9-470e-9dd8-7d9ec416e53f
Do not waste your time, files can only be decrypted by our decode tool.
If you paid the tool will get send by discord to you.
If you want to prevent being tricked once again by cybercriminals, you should avoid paying them the ransom. There is no guarantee that they can send you back a working decryption solution for .picocode#8523! files. Instead, consider the completion of the removal steps below as they will help you to clean your system from malicious files. In addition, you will be presented with several alternative data recovery solutions.
Remove PicoVirus Ransomware Virus and Attempt to Restore Files
The so-called PicoVirus 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 the ransomware. That’s why it is recommendable that all steps presented in the ransomware 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. For the recovery of encrypted .picocode#8523! files you should check the instructions in step four.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for PicoVirus ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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.
PicoVirus ransomware-FAQ
What is PicoVirus ransomware Ransomware?
PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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 .PicoVirus ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .PicoVirus 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 .PicoVirus ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".PicoVirus ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this PicoVirus 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 PicoVirus 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.
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