The article will aid you to remove the VapeLauncher ransomware effectively. Follow the ransomware removal instructions at the bottom of this article.
VapeLauncher is a ransomware cryptovirus. The malware researcher Karsten Hahn has established that this is a variant of the CryptoWire ransomware. Your files will become encrypted and the VapeLauncher cryptovirus will load a window with payment instructions, which is almost entirely the same as the one in its previous variants. Keep on reading below to see how you could try to restore some of your files.
Threat Summary
| Name | VapeLauncher |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer and demands payment for unlocking them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and put the extension .encrypted before the original extension of the files. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss VapeLauncher. |
| 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. |
VapeLauncher Ransomware – Infection
VapeLauncher ransomware could spread its infection by using different methods. The payload file that initiates the malicious script for this ransomware, which in turn infects your computer machine, is circling the Internet and a malware sample has been found by malware researchers. Down below you can view the results of two VirusTotal detections. The one on the left is of a .zip file that is the actual payload dropper that is named MinecraftHax, and the one on the right is the executable of the ransomware in its extracted form:
The VapeLauncher ransomware might also distribute its payload file on social media websites and networks for file-sharing. Freeware that is found on the Web could be presented as useful but at the same time could hide the malicious script for the cryptovirus. Refrain from opening files just as you have downloaded them, especially if they come from suspicious sources such as links or e-mails. Instead, you should scan them beforehand with a security tool, while also checking the size and signatures of these files for anything that seems out of the ordinary. You should read the tips for ransomware prevention topic in our forum.
VapeLauncher Ransomware – In Depth
VapeLauncher ransomware is also a cryptovirus. The malware researcher Karsten Hahn has discovered that the virus is based on the CryptoWire ransomware virus. When the encryption process finishes, a window with instructions for payment shows up that is almost entirely the same as the original variant of the ransomware. Files will get locked with the .encrypted extension as past iteration of this malware.
The VapeLauncher ransomware could make entries in the Windows Registry to achieve persistence, launch and repress processes in Windows. Some entries are designed in a way that will start the virus automatically with each launch of the Windows Operating System, such as the example given right here below:
→“HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run”
The ransom note will show up after the encryption process is complete inside a window screen. The note is written in English and gives details about the payment needed to restore your files.
After your files get encrypted, the following notification message will pop up:
You can preview the ransom message that loads after the file encryption process is complete from the screenshot right here:
That ransom note reads the following:
VapeLauncher
Your files has been encrypted
[number of encrypted files]The only way you can recover your files is to buy a decryption key
The payment method is: Bitcoins. The price is: $200 = BitcoinsClick on the ‘Buy decryption key’ button.
The note of the VapeLauncher ransomware states that your files are encrypted and to get them back you have to pay the amount of 200 US dollars in Bitcoins. You should NOT under any circumstances pay these cybercriminals. Your files may not get restored, and nobody could give you a guarantee for that. Moreover, giving money to these criminals will more than motivate them to continue creating ransomware and even might do other criminal activities.
VapeLauncher Ransomware – Encryption Process
For now, a list with file extensions that the VapeLauncher ransomware searches to encrypt is not available. However, the article will get duly updated if such a lis is found. The extensions which are most likely to get encrypted are the following:
→.7z, .bmp, .doc, .docm, .docx, .html, .jpeg, .jpg, .mp3, .mp4, .pdf, .php, .ppt, .pptx, .rar, .rtf, .sql, .tiff, .txt, .xls, .xlsx, .zip
Every file that gets encrypted will receive the same extension appended to each one of them, and that is the .encrypted extension, but instead of it being added after the original extension of files, .encrypted is added before it.
The VapeLauncher cryptovirus is very likely to delete the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system by utilizing the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
Read on through and check out what type of ways you can try to potentially restore some of your files.
Remove VapeLauncher Ransomware and Restore .encrypted Files
If your computer got infected with the VapeLauncher 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.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for VapeLauncher with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by VapeLauncher.
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 VapeLauncher 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.
VapeLauncher-FAQ
What is VapeLauncher Ransomware?
VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher Infect?
Via several ways.VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher 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 .VapeLauncher files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .VapeLauncher 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 .VapeLauncher files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".VapeLauncher" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this VapeLauncher 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 VapeLauncher 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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