This article will aid you to remove .SBLOCK Ransomware. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
.SBLOCK Ransomware is one that encrypts your data and demands money as a ransom to get it restored. Files will receive the .SBLOCK extension. The .SBLOCK Ransomware will leave ransomware instructions as a desktop wallpaper image. Keep on reading the article and see how you could try to potentially recover some of your locked files and data.
Threat Summary
| Name | .SBLOCK ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files by placing the .SBLOCK extension on the target files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and leave a ransom note with payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .SBLOCK 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. |
.SBLOCK Ransomware – Distribution Techniques
The .SBLOCK ransomware as a new release of the Matrix ransomware family probably uses the same attack methods as the previous samples. One of the most popular ones is the launch of email SPAM campaigns that contain various phishing elements. The recipients are coerced into thinking that they have received a legitimate message from a well-known service, product or company. The hackers might hijack the legitimate contents and use them in the dangerous crafted messages. Usually the virus files will be linked or directly attached.
An alternative is to craft malicious sites that attempt to impersonate well-known company landing pages, search engines and download portals. The associated .SBLOCK ransomware can be placed both in the main file contents and any associated elements: web banners, pop-ups, ads and etc.
The .SBLOCK ransomware infection code can also be embedded in payload carriers of which there are two main types:
- Malicious Documents — The hackers can embed the virus infection scripts as macros across all popular formats: spreadsheets, presentations, databases and text files. Whenever they are opened by the users a notification prompt will be spawned asking the users to enable the built-in macros. The quoted reason is that this is required in order to correctly view the file.
- Dangerous Application Installers — The criminals can hijack the legitimate setup files of popular programs which are often downloaded by end users. Usually the list of affected applications includes system utilities, creativity suites, productivity and office apps and etc.
All of these files can also be found on file-sharing networks like BitTorrent where both pirate and legitimate content is found. Large-scale campaigns can be orchestrated via browser hijackers which are dangerous plugins which are made compatible with the most popular web browsers. They are usually uploaded to the relevant repositories using fake user reviews and developer credentials thereby enticing the visitors into installing them. The presented descriptions will promise new features addition and performance optimization. However upon installing them the .SBLOCK ransomware will be delivered along with any other malicious behavior as intended. This is usually a manipulation of the default settings in order to redirect the victims to a preset hacker-controlled page. The altered changes are usually the default home page, search engine and new tabs page.
.SBLOCK Ransomware – Detailed Analysis
As the .SBLOCK ransomware is descendant from the Matrix family of threats its set of modules is known. It is anticipated that it will follow the typical behavior patterns as known by previous infections. One of the first components that is run is the information gathering. This instructs the engine to extract information that can be categorized into two main groups:
- Personal Information — The engine can be programmed to search for personal information that can reveal the identity of the hackers. This makes the engine search for strings like their name, phone number, address, interests and any stored account credentials.
- Machine Identification Data — The criminals can program the .SBLOCK ransomware engine to construct an unique string that can identify each affected computer. It is made by an algorithm thaat takes its input values from a wide range of sources: system configuration values, the installed hardware components and certain user preferences.
The collected information can be used further by the next module in the chain called security bypass. It will scan the memory and hard disk contents for any applications and services that can block the proper virus execution. Their real-time engines and main executables can be bypassed or entirely removed. In most cases this includes the likes of anti-virus programs, sandbox environments, virtual machine hosts and etc.
Whenever the security of the machines has been bypassed the .SBLOCK ransomware can continue further with various system changes and other related malicious actions. Some of them include the following:
- Windows Registry Modifications — The ransomware engine can change values that belong both to the operating system and any third-party installed applications. In most cases this can lead to severe performance issues to the point of rendering the system completely unusable. Certain functions can be become inaccessible and unexpected errors and shut downs can happen. This usually results in data loss.
- Data Removal — Like some previous Matrix ransomware samples the .SBLOCK virus release is able to identify and remove sensitive files from the infected computers. This usually includes the likes of system restore points, backups and shadow volume copies. In this case the victims will need to use a professional-grade data recovery software.
- Persistent Installation — The .SBLOCK ransomare can reconfigure the system in order to start automatically as soon as the computer is powered on. This will also disable access to the boot menu options and recovery menus which are used wwith manual user removal instructions. In this case the victims will be forced to use a professional-grade anti-spyware solution in order to guarantee a complete removal.
- Additional Malware Delivery — In many cases viruses like this one are used to deploy other threats to the affected computers. This is done because the ransowmare has already bypassed and the dropped viruses will have the ability to fully unleash their potential.
Most of the advanced Matrix ransomware samples are also fully capable of installing complex Trojan horse clients. They allow the criminals to use a persistent connection to the infected machines. The hackers are thus able to take over control of the machines at any time, spy on the users actions and retrieve data before it has been processed by the encryption engine.
.SBLOCK Ransomware – Encryption Process
Like other popular malware samples the .SBLOCK ransomware will launch the encryption engine once all prior modules have finished running. It will probably use a built-in list of target file type extensions which are to be processed by a strong cipher. An example list can include the following data types:
- Backups
- Databases
- Archives
- Images
- Music
- Videos
All affected files are renamed with the .SBLOCK extension.
Remove .SBLOCK Ransomware and Try to Restore Data
If your computer system got infected with the .SBLOCK ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for .SBLOCK ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .SBLOCK 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK ransomware 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 .SBLOCK ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK 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.
.SBLOCK ransomware-FAQ
What is .SBLOCK ransomware Ransomware?
.SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK 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 ..SBLOCK ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..SBLOCK 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 ..SBLOCK ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..SBLOCK ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .SBLOCK 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 .SBLOCK 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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