Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a device and demands payment in order to decrypt them. Removing ransomware can be challenging, but with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to get rid of it and recover encrypted files. Here are some quick answers to key questions about ransomware removal:
Can you remove ransomware yourself?
Yes, it is possible to remove ransomware yourself using anti-malware tools. However, this can be a complex process, especially for those without technical expertise. Professional help is recommended for most ransomware infections.
What is the best way to remove ransomware?
The most effective way to remove ransomware is to use a combination of anti-malware tools, including security software that specializes in ransomware removal. It’s also important to restore files from clean backups and implement measures to prevent reinfection.
Can files be recovered after ransomware attack?
In some cases, files can be recovered after a ransomware attack. If backups are available, these provide the best way to restore encrypted files. Recovery may also be possible using ransomware decryption tools or file recovery software, but this depends on the strain of ransomware.
Should ransom be paid to decrypt files?
Paying the ransom is not recommended, as it encourages cybercriminals and does not guarantee files will be recovered. Efforts are better focused on removal using security software and file restoration from backups.
Ransomware removal can be a frustrating and time-consuming process. However, using the right approach can help eliminate the malware and restore system access. Here is a more in-depth look at how to get rid of ransomware and recover encrypted files.
Quarantine the infection
The first step in ransomware removal is to isolate the infection to prevent further damage. If ransomware is detected, disconnect the infected device from any networks and stop using it immediately. For ransomware targeting servers, isolate the server and block traffic to prevent spreading.
Disconnect wifi and unplug cables
For individual devices like desktops or laptops, start by disconnecting from any wired or wireless networks. Unplug any Ethernet cables or disable wifi to prevent further communication. This contains the infection to the single device.
Isolate infected servers
For ransomware on servers, block all communication to and from the server. Disable any services allowing remote access, block email delivery, and implement firewall rules to prevent traffic. This prevents distribution across the network.
Stop using infected devices
Refrain from using infected devices to avoid unintentionally damaging or deleting important files. Ransomware may still be running in the background, so using the infected device risks overwriting encrypted files before they can be restored.
Identify the ransomware strain
Recognizing the type of ransomware is key for effective removal. Ransomware families have distinct characteristics that can guide removal steps:
| Ransomware Type | Description | Notable Strains |
|---|---|---|
| Locker ransomware | Locks access to computer systems without file encryption | Reveton, LockerGoga |
| Encrypting ransomware | Encrypts files and makes them inaccessible | WannaCry, CryptoLocker, Stop |
| Leaking ransomware | Exfiltrates data and threatens to publish it online | DoppelPaymer, RagnarLocker |
Typical signs of infection also help identify the strain. This includes ransom notes, file extensions applied to encrypted files, ransom amount demanded, and any other observable behaviors.
Stop the ransomware process
Terminating the ransomware process can stop file encryption. But it must be done quickly before significant damage occurs:
Use Task Manager to end process on Windows
On Windows, open Task Manager and go to the Processes tab. Look for suspicious processes associated with the ransomware. Ending the process tree may stop file encryption, but some damage may have already occurred.
Terminate process on MacOS/Linux
On Mac or Linux, use the Activity Monitor or htop utility to view and kill processes tied to the ransomware. The sooner this is done, the more files can be saved from encryption.
Stop related services
Stopping any related services can also interrupt ransomware activity. Use Task Manager or similar utilities to disable associated services and prevent further infection while removal is underway.
Start ransomware removal
With the ransomware isolated and encrypted files contained, the next step is safely starting removal. This requires rebooting into safe mode and running scans using anti-malware tools:
Reboot into Safe Mode
First reboot the infected device into Safe Mode. For Windows, repeatedly press F8 while restarting and select Safe Mode. For MacOS, hold Shift while booting and log in using a temporary admin account. Safe Mode starts the system with limited functionality so the ransomware is less likely to run.
Run anti-malware scans
In Safe Mode, run full system scans using reliable anti-malware software like Malwarebytes, Windows Defender, or dedicated ransomware removal tools. This can detect and remove ransomware from the device. Update malware definitions first to identify the latest strains.
Delete quarantined items
Review scan results and ensure any quarantined ransomware files or entries are deleted. Reboot normally afterwards. Running additional scans verifies the system is clean.
Restore from clean backups
After ransomware is removed, files encrypted by the malware remain inaccessible. Restoring from backups provides the most reliable way to recover affected data. This requires having a recent, complete backup not connected to the infected system.
Disconnect backup drives
Do not reconnect external hard drives or access connected storage used for backups. Ransomware may still be present and could encrypt offline backups.
Locate an offline, uninfected backup
Determine if any recent backups exist that were not connected to the infected system when ransomware struck. Offline, detached backups like external drives provide recovery options if unaffected.
Restore encrypted files
Once confirmed as malware-free, use the backup to restore any encrypted files to their pre-infection state. If files were backed up regularly, this can minimize data loss from encryption.
Check for decryptors
Security researchers sometimes release free decryption tools for specific ransomware strains that recover files. This offers another potential way to decrypt files without paying ransom:
Identify ransomware strain
Lookup the ransomware identified during removal to check if decryptors are available. Security sites like No More Ransom provide an index of tools mapped to ransomware families.
Obtain the correct decryptor
If one exists, download the decryptor associated with the exact ransomware strain involved in the attack. Decryptors are precisely tuned to each strain’s encryption methods.
Decrypt files with tool
Run the decryptor as directed to unlock encrypted files. As long as the correct decryptor is applied, files can be restored to their original accessible state.
Wipe system and reinstall
If ransomware is still present after anti-malware scans or file recovery options are limited, wiping the infected system provides a fresh start. All files will be lost, but the device is restored ransomware-free:
Backup wanted files
Before wiping, copy any remaining important files off the device not yet encrypted by ransomware. This preserves retrievable data.
Wipe hard drive
Perform a factory reset or wipe the hard drive completely using disk utility tools. This erases all infected files and the ransomware code.
Reinstall OS and software
With the disk wiped, reinstall the operating system and required software programs. Restore saved files from the backup created earlier.
Prevent ransomware reinfection
Removing an active ransomware infection is only part of the battle. To avoid repeated attacks, comprehensive security measures should be adopted:
Install and update antivirus
Use best-in-class antivirus tools to detect and halt ransomware. Keep virus definitions current and auto-updates enabled.
Enable firewalls
Configure firewalls on devices and networks to restrict access from potential threat actors and block known malicious sites.
Patch and update software
Apply latest software updates and security patches to minimize vulnerabilities ransomware can exploit to gain access.
Implement email security
Detect and filter out dangerous emails containing phishing links and infected attachments that deliver ransomware.
Secure backups
Maintain regular, offline backups not constantly connected to the network so they cannot be reached by ransomware.
Educate users
Train staff to identify warning signs like phishing attempts to improve security awareness and reduce likelihood of infection.
Should ransom be paid for data recovery?
Some organizations choose to pay the ransom demanded in hopes of recovering encrypted data. But this has major downsides:
No guarantee files will be restored
Paying the ransom provides no assurance files will be decrypted. Attackers may simply take the money and provide nothing in return.
Encourages more attacks
Giving in to ransom demands incentivizes hackers to launch more ransomware attacks in expectation of easy payouts.
May violate legal restrictions
Paying ransoms could breach legal restrictions against financing criminal organizations in some jurisdictions.
Other options may be available
Alternatives like restoring from backups may retrieve data without paying ransoms and emboldening attackers.
Ultimately, paying ransoms should be an absolute last resort after exhausting all other options. The risks often outweigh the potential benefits.
Summary
While ransomware attacks can be highly disruptive, there are ways to combat them. Quick isolation, anti-malware scans, restoring backups, using decryptors, and wiping infected systems help remove infections and recover encrypted data. To fend off future attacks, organizations should secure devices, train staff, patch diligently, and backup consistently.
Ransomware removal presents challenges, but a combination of the right tools, techniques, and preparedness makes dealing with ransomware much more manageable.
