This article will aid you to remove .UIK1J! Ransomware. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
.UIK1J! Ransomware is one that encrypts your data and demands money as a ransom to get it restored. Files will receive the .UIK1J! extension. The .UIK1J! 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 | .UIK1J! Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files by placing the .UIK1J! 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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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .UIK1J! 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. |
.UIK1J! Ransomware – Distribution Techniques
The .UIK1J! ransomware is also known as [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-golden-axe-ransomware/”] Golden Axe Ransomware and it has been discovered in a recent attack wave. This virus appears to have a wide range of capabilities and does not appear to have any code borrowings from famous malware families. No information is available about the hacker operators as well — we anticipate that the people behind it are experienced in virus design. As such we anticipate that the most popular hacking methods are going to be used in order to infect as many victims as possible.
Many virus samples including the .UIK1J! ransomware can be sent via email phishing messages. They are devised as email messages that have been sent by legitimate services or companies by using stolen or fabricated design and content. The virus files are either attached directly or linked in them. The infection happens through interaction with them.
The other hacking strategy depends on the creation and popularization of malicious web sites that aim to impersonate download portals, search engines and other frequently accessed Internet sites. They are usually hosted similar sounding domain names to popular web sites and self-signed security certificates.
A large number of potential .UIK1J! ransomware infections can be made by embedding the virus infection code in payload carriers of which there are two main types:
- Infected Documents — Dangerous scripts can be inserted across all popular document formats: text documents, spreadsheets, presentations and databases. Whenever they are opened by the victims a prompt will be spawned asking them to enable the macros. The most popular quoted reason is for the correct viewing of the file’s contents.
- Application Installers — The other popular payload carrier type is the setup file. It is made by taking the legitimate installers of popular software and modifying them in order to include the virus code. The hackers prefer to craft application setup files of popular examples such as creativity suites, system utilities, productivity and office apps and etc.
The payload carriers may be distributed via another popular mechanism — the use of file sharing networks. They are widely used to share both pirate and legitimate content, BitTorrent is probably one of the most popular examples.
In some situations the hackers can launch a widespread attack campaign utilizing the so-called browser hijackers. They represent dangerous plugins made for the most popular web browsers. The hijackers are uploaded to their associated repositories using fake user reviews and developer credentials. The posted descriptions often promise various types of performance enhancement or new features addition. Whenever they are installed the virus infection will happen.
.UIK1J! Ransomware – Detailed Analysis
The in-depth code analysis of the .UIK1J! ransomware revels that the hacker collective behind it has managed to include a wide variety of modules and components thus creating a complex virus.
As soon as the virus infection has happened a complex array of preset actions will be started. One of the most prominent actions done by the engine is the execution of an anti-analysis module. It allows for the detection and removal of any potential security software that can actively block the proper virus actions. The list includes anti-virus programs, firewalls, sandbox environments and virtual machine hosts. This is done by scanning for such processes in memory and for any files found within the hard disk.
The ransomware will also start to harvest various types of information from the affected machines, it can be grouped into three main groups:
- Application Data — The .UIK1J! ransomware is able to interact with the installed software and thus extract all kinds of data that they store. This is often the case with web browsers, the virus files can hijack the stored cookies, history, preferences and etc.
- Machine Information — The associated engine can extract a detailed list of strings that can directly be used to generate an unique ID for each affected computer. Usually the collected data is fed to an algorithm that outputs this ID string. The data that is acquired includes system environment values, user settings and a list of the installed hardware components.
- User Information — Private data can be acquired about the users — personal information such as their name, interests, address, security credentials and etc.
As soon as these components have finished running the ransomware infection will continue further. It is able to start its own processes, hook up to already running ones and thus allow the operators to spy on the users activities.
A dangerous consequence of having this virus active on a target computer is the fact that it can find and remove sensitive data — backups, shadow volume copies and restore points. In this particular case it is recommended that a professional-grade data recovery solution is used. If the engine interacts with the Windows Volume Manager it can also access available network shares and removable storage devices.
The code analysis of the .UIK1J! ransomware also shows that it launches a connection to a hacker-controlled site due to the built-in Trojan module. This allows the criminals to take over control of the victim systems, steal information and deploy additional threats if they desire to do so.
.UIK1J! Ransomware – Encryption Process
Like other popular malware samples the .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! extension. A ransomware note will be created alongside a desktop wallpaper that will be applied to to infected computers. As the base engine is modular in nature it can be extended with additional components and behavior patterns.
Remove .UIK1J! Ransomware and Try to Restore Data
If your computer system got infected with the .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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.
.UIK1J! Ransomware-FAQ
What is .UIK1J! Ransomware Ransomware?
.UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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 ..UIK1J! Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..UIK1J! 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 ..UIK1J! Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..UIK1J! Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .UIK1J! 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 .UIK1J! 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.
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.
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