This article explains the issues that occur in case of infection with .snatch files virus and provides a complete guide on how to remove malicious files and how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
A data locker ransomware dubbed .snatch files virus has been detected in the wild. In case that you are a victim of this nasty threat you won’t be able to open files that are marked with the .snatch extension. This is a result of significant modifications applied to their code. In addition, hackers will attempt to blackmail you into paying them a ransom fee for files decryption.
Threat Summary
| Name | .snatch Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Ransomware infection created for the corruption of common types of files. As a consequence hackers demand a ransom payment. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encoded with strong cipher algorithm. Their names display the extension .snatch while their information remains inaccessible. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Web Pages, Fake 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 .snatch Files Virus. |
| 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. |
.snatch Files Virus – Distribution
In general, for the spread of threats like .snatch files virus, cyber criminals use spam email messages. This method enables them to trick as many users as possible to run the ransomware payload on their devices. Emails that aim to deliver malware on computer devices often pose as representatives of legitimate websites, services, and even governmental institutions.
They also contain a few traits that could help users detect the presence of malicious code. The most common one is a file attachment of frequently used type of files such as documents, archives, images, PDFs or other well-known file formats. Once such a file is loaded on a target device, it triggers the malicious code that leads to infection with .snatch ransomware.
Another malicious element that may appear in emails part of ransomware spread campaigns is URL address being it in the form of an in-text link, button, coupon, banner, image or other clickable forms. The load of the page behind this URL address results in the unnoticed execution of ransomware payload.
.snatch Files Virus – Infection Overview
When the payload of this .snatch ransomware manages to run on a target system, it initiates a long sequence of malicious tasks that plague some major system components. Infected system components enable the ransomware to complete its primary goal which is data encryption.
In the beginning, .snatch cryptovirus is likely to establish additional malicious files and objects on the infected computer. For the purpose, it could be either designed to create them directly in a target system directory, download them from a remote server or both. Eventually, like most of the analyzed ransomware infections, .snatch probably keeps its associated files and objects in some of the following system folders:
- %Roaming%
- %Windows%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
Once the cryptovirus establishes all needed files, it continues with the contamination of predefined system processes, components and settings most of which essential for system’s regular and secure performance.
The Windows Registry Editor is likely to be infected by this ransomware. By adding malicious values under some of the registry keys, .snatch becomes able to manipulate their functionalities. This way it could perform various malicious activities without being detected by active security measures and ensure its persistent presence on the system.
In addition, when it adds certain valued under the registry sub-key Run or RunOnce, .snatch could automatically load its ransom note on the PC screen. This note is stored in a text file named Readme_Restore_Files.txt and all it reads is:
All your files are encrypted
Do not try modify files
My email imBoristheBlade@protonmail.com
This is a short message that does not provide many details on hackers’ demands. Apparently, they expect victims to contact them at the presented email address so that the first could receive more information on how to restore encrypted files. Beware, that such an action could lead to additional security issues that could affect your privacy. Furthermore, even a successful ransom payment does not guarantee the recovery of your encoded files, so be advised to refrain from following hackers instructions before you attempt to solve the problem in a secure manner.
.snatch Files Virus – Encryption Process
When .snatch reaches the data encryption stage, it activates an inbuilt encryption module. This module is set to run a sophisticated cipher algorithm every time the ransomware detects a target type of file. Unfortunately, all of the following files could be encrypted by .snatch files virus as they are commonly used for the storage of important data:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Following encryption, all corrupted files appear with the extension .snatch at the end of their original names. Due to transformations applied to their code, they remain inaccessible until an efficient solution reverts them back to original state.
Remove .snatch Files Virus and Restore Data
The .snatch cryptovirus is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So you should clean and secure your infected system before you could use it regularly again. Below you could find a step-by-step removal guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove .snatch ransomware. Choose the manual removal approach if you have any previous experience with the detection of malware files. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps select the automatic section from the guide. Steps there will enable you to check the infected system for ransomware files and remove them with a few mouse clicks.
In order to keep your system secure against ransomware and other types of malware in future, you should consider the installation of a reliable anti-malware program. Additional security layer that could help you prevent the occurrence of ransomware attacks is [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/the-most-popular-free-anti-ransomware-tools/”]anti-ransomware tool.
If you want to understand how to potentially fix encrypted files without paying the ransom read carefully all the details mentioned in step “Restore files”. Beware that before the data recovery process you should back up all encrypted files to an external drive as this will 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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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.
About the .snatch Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .snatch Files Virus 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 .snatch Files Virus 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.
References
1. How to Recognize Spam Emails with Ransomware
2. How Does Ransomware Encryption Work?
3. How to Decrypt Ransomware Files
4. Ransomware Getting Greedier and Bigger, Attacks Increase by 40%
5. 1 in 5 Americans Victim of Ransomware
- Guide 1: How to Remove .snatch Files Virus from Windows.
- Guide 2: Get rid of .snatch Files Virus from Mac OS X.
How to Remove .snatch Files Virus from Windows.
Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove .snatch Files Virus
1. Hold Windows Key + R.
2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.
3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".
4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.
5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.
Step 2: Uninstall .snatch Files Virus 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:
1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.
2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.
3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully uninstall most programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .snatch Files Virus 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 .snatch Files Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.
2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.
3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.
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: Scan for .snatch Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.
2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.
3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.
4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.
Video Guide for Automatic and Fast Removal
Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .snatch Files Virus.
Ransomware infections and .snatch Files Virus 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.
1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:
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.
Step 6: How to Restore Files Encrypted by Ransomware (Video Guide)
Get rid of .snatch Files Virus from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall .snatch Files Virus 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:
2. Find Activity Monitor and double-click it:
3. In the Activity Monitor look for any suspicious processes, belonging or related to .snatch Files Virus:
4. Click on the "Go" button again, but this time select Applications. Another way is with the ⇧+⌘+A buttons.
5. In the Applications menu, look for any suspicious app or an app with a name, similar or identical to .snatch Files Virus. If you find it, right-click on the app and select “Move to Trash
”.
6. Select Accounts, after which click on the Login Items preference.
Your Mac will then show you a list of items that start automatically when you log in. Look for any suspicious apps identical or similar to .snatch Files Virus. Check the app you want to stop from running automatically and then select on the Minus (“-“) icon to hide it.
7. Remove any left-over files that might be related to this threat manually by following the sub-steps below:
- 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 .snatch Files Virus 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:
1: Click on "Go" and Then "Go to Folder" as shown underneath:
2: Type in "/Library/LauchAgents/" and click Ok:
3: Delete all of the virus files that have similar or the same name as .snatch Files Virus. If you believe there is no such file, do not delete anything.
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 .snatch Files Virus.
Ransomware infections and .snatch Files Virus 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.
1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:
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.
.snatch Files Virus FAQ
What is .snatch Files Virus ransomware and how does it work?
.snatch Files Virus 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 .snatch Files Virus ransomware infect my computer?
Via several ways..snatch Files Virus 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 .snatch Files Virus 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 ..snatch Files Virus files?
You can't. At this point the ..snatch Files Virus 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 ..snatch Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
One way to restore files, encrypted by .snatch Files Virus 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 "..snatch Files Virus" files (Other Methods)?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..snatch Files Virus 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 .snatch Files Virus 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 .snatch Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..snatch Files Virus files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like .snatch Files Virus 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.
