1. Introduction to Locked
Locked virus belongs to Void Crypt ransomware family. This ransomware encrypts all user data (photos, documents, Excel sheets, music, videos, etc.) on the PC, adds its specific extension to each file and creates files in each folder containing encrypted files.
2. How did I get locked on my computer?
Locked can be detected by many antivirus tools, but it doesn't matter -- viruses can be installed with the antivirus turned off.
The locked ransomware spreads via RDP. Remote Desktop is a very useful tool for remotely accessing computers that many businesses and organizations use, but it also makes the accessed computers vulnerable to hackers. Ransomware finds admin accounts with weak credentials on exposed connections and uses them to infect computers with XXXXXXXX ransomware cryptovirus and can cause more issues like disabling antivirus software.
locked ransomware is also commonly distributed using the following tools/methods: spam email campaigns, third-party software download sources, Trojan horses, and fake software updaters and "cracks." Cybercriminals use spam campaigns to send hundreds of thousands of deceptive emails, encouraging recipients to open malicious attachments (links/files). Users end up simply downloading and installing malware manually. Trojan horses are essentially malicious applications designed to cause what is known as a "chain infection." Therefore, they silently infiltrate computers and inject them with additional malware.
Other ransomware distribution methods that are not used by locked ransomware but should be considered include malvertising (infected ads exploiting outdated software to automatically download viruses) and infected files uploaded online (which are more of a personal threat and are STOP use) ransomware)
3. How to remove locked virus? Download the removal tool.
Commonly used tools such as 360 Antivirus, Huorong Security, and Kingsoft Antivirus can detect and kill locked ransomware.
There is no guarantee that locked ransomware developers will send you the decryption tool and the correct decryption key. And in many cases, ransomware distributors trick victims into sending wrong keys or even sending nothing at all. In most cases, there is a way to recover your files for free. Search for an available backup and use it to restore your system. Of course, the backup you find may be too old and not contain as many files as you need. However, at least you can be sure that there is no malware on your system. However, to make sure there are no malicious programs on your system after backup, you need to scan your PC with anti-malware software.
These ransomware samples behave in a similar manner: encrypt your files, add specific extensions, and leave large ransom notes in each folder. However, there are two differences between these ransomware - the cryptographic algorithm used for file encryption and the ransom amount. In some cases, victims can decrypt their files without paying anything, simply by using free solutions from several anti-malware vendors, or even using decryption tools from ransomware creators. The last scenario can arise when the ransomware distributor enters your decryption key in the ransom note. However, as you've already guessed, such luck is very rare. Ransomware was created to make money, not to joke or scare
4. How to recover locked virus
The encryption algorithms used by most ransomware-type infections are so complex that only the developer can recover the data if the encryption is performed correctly. This is because decryption requires a specific key generated during encryption. Data recovery is impossible without the key. In most cases, cybercriminals store keys on remote servers rather than using infected machines as hosts. Dharma (CrySis), Phobos, and other high-end ransomware infections are nearly flawless, so recovering encrypted data without the involvement of the developers is simply impossible. Still, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain many flaws (e.g. use the same encryption/decryption keys for each victim, locally stored keys, etc.).
The chances of finding the right decryption tool on the internet are very low. For this reason, we recommend that you check out the No More Ransom Project address, a website that identifies ransomware infections and checks for free decryption software for current viruses. The No More Ransom Project website includes a "Decryption Tools" section with a search bar. Enter the name of the recognized ransomware and all available decryptors (if any) will be listed.
5. Frequently encountered problems
- How to open files encrypted by "locked ransomware"? Basically impossible. These files are encrypted by locked ransomware. The contents of files encrypted by locked ransomware are not available until decrypted.
- The locked ransomware file contains important information. How can I urgently decrypt them? If it is a database file, it can be repaired and extracted. If the hi file can only find the way to decrypt the key
- If you use antivirus software to remove locked ransomware ransomware. Does this mean that this antivirus program will delete my encrypted files? of course not. Your encrypted files pose no threat to your computer. Antivirus software recognizes and differentiates ransomware threats
6. How to avoid locked ransomware attack?
- Install anti-virus software: Installing anti-virus software can effectively prevent the spread of viruses and malware, thereby effectively preventing the server from being attacked by ransomware.
- Regular backup: Regularly back up the data on the server. If the server is attacked by ransomware, you can use the backup data to restore.
- Strengthen system security: update the operating system and software in a timely manner, and regularly check system security to ensure that system security vulnerabilities are not exploited.
- Use complex passwords: Using complex passwords can effectively prevent attackers from cracking the system and ensure system security.