Ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware) that encrypts files on a device and demands payment from the user to decrypt them. It has become one of the most widespread and damaging cyberattacks, with countless individuals and organizations falling victim each year. The financial losses from ransomware attacks are staggering, with the global cost estimated to reach $265 billion by 2031.
With the prevalence of ransomware rising, it is crucial that computer users understand how to protect themselves and regain access to their files if infected. The good news is that free decryption tools exist to unlock files after a ransomware attack. Read on to learn what ransomware is, how it infects devices, and most importantly—the top free ransomware removal tools to recover your data.
What is Ransomware and How Does it Infect Computers?
Ransomware is a form of malware distributed through various vectors, like:
- Phishing emails with malicious attachments or links
- Infected websites and advertisements (malvertising)
- Software or game cracks and key generators
- Compromised servers that spread it across networks
Once on a system, ransomware encrypts files and displays a ransom note demanding payment, typically in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin. The ransom amount usually has a deadline, creating urgency to pay up and obtain the decryption key. Some ransomware also threatens to delete files or leak them online if the ransom is not paid.
Newer ransomware strains employ sneaky tactics to infect devices and evade detection. This includes limiting suspicious activity until fully deployed, using legitimate tools like PowerShell for the encryption process, deleting Volume Shadow Copies to block restore points, and quickly spreading across networks.
Top Free Decryption Tools
If you become a victim of ransomware, don’t panic. Paying the ransom should be a last resort. Often, free decryption software exists that can unlock your files. Security researchers frequently crack ransomware strains and release free decryption tools. They may also discover flaws that allow victims to recover files without paying. Here are the top free ransomware decryption tools to try recovering your data.
Emsisoft Decryptor for Ransomware
The Emsisoft Decryptor for Ransomware is a free tool that supports over 140 ransomware families, with more added regularly. It utilizes a large collection of decryption keys and other methods to unlock files. The decryptor is updated often with keys for new ransomware versions. It’s easy to use – simply download, install, and run a scan. The Emsisoft Decryptor will detect active and inactive ransomware infections and decrypt files when possible.
Avast Decryption Tools
Avast provides free decryption tools for many major ransomware families, including Apocalypse, Bart, CrySiS, DMALocker, NoobCrypt, and over 100 more. New decryption tools are continually added. Like Emsisoft, Avast obtains decryption keys through cooperation with law enforcement. The Avast decryption tools are available for Windows and Android devices. Make sure to download the appropriate decryptor for your ransomware strain.
Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor
Kaspersky’s free RakhniDecryptor can decrypt files locked by over 25 ransomware families, such as Rannoh, Rakhni, Agent.bzv, Aura, and others. It is regularly updated with new variants. Kaspersky provides download links and instructions for the different decryptors on its website. You’ll need to identify which ransomware infected your system, then download the correct tool. Kaspersky also has ransomware decryptors for mobile devices.
McAfee Ransomware Decryption Tools
McAfee has released free decryption tools for high-profile ransomware strains like CryptXXX, Bart, DMALocker, Serum, and others. Their tools employ decryption keys collated from malware research, as well as vulnerabilities uncovered in some strains. As with the other vendors, be sure to download the specific decryptor for the ransomware that attacked your device. McAfee actively maintains and updates its decryption tools.
No More Ransom
No More Ransom is a collaboration between cybersecurity companies, law enforcement, and academic researchers aimed at fighting ransomware. It offers a large repository of free decryption tools for all devices and operating systems. Tools are available for 150+ ransomware families. No More Ransom is updated frequently with new decryptors, information, and educational material about ransomware prevention.
Other Options for File Recovery
If the ransomware decryption tools cannot recover your files, don’t lose hope yet. Here are a few other options that may work:
Ransomware Decryption Keys
Some ransomware developers have released master decryption keys if they shut down their operation. You can find repositories of known keys online that may work if you’re infected with an older variant. Always exercise caution when downloading anything related to ransomware though.
Cloud/Offline Backups
If you have backups stored offline or in the cloud, you may be able to restore your files from before the infection. Make sure your cloud backups aren’t set to automatically sync with the ransomware-encrypted files and overwrite the good copies.
Shadow Volume Copies
Some ransomware families delete Windows Volume Shadow Copies to prevent restore points from undoing the encryption. But not all strains take this action. You may be able to restore files using System Restore or backup software that leverages shadow copies.
File Recovery Software
Specialized file recovery programs may be able to restore some files by scanning the drive for file signatures. This works best if the ransomware deleted files instead of encrypting them. Recovering encrypted data is very difficult without the decryption key.
Steps to Remove Active Ransomware Infections
Using a ransomware decryptor only retrieves files – it doesn’t clean up the infection. Follow these steps to fully remove active ransomware from your system and prevent reinfection:
- Isolate the infected device from other devices and networks. Unplug any storage drives, routers/switches, or other attached hardware.
- Use Task Manager to kill any unfamiliar processes running. Ransomware may leave behind processes, modules, or programs.
- Boot into Safe Mode to prevent ransomware auto-starting. Use Safe Mode when running scans.
- Install and run a robust anti-malware program to scan for infections.
- Delete any files, programs, browser extensions, or other components identified as ransomware. Also delete unfamiliar programs manually.
- Update your antivirus software, operating system, programs, and browser to the newest versions. Install any patches.
- Change all account passwords in case the ransomware stole credentials or keylogged activity.
- Secure backups and ensure they work properly for restoring data. Maintain both local and offline/cloud backups.
It’s critical to fully remove the ransomware infection before restoring your files. Otherwise, it may encrypt the files again. Ransomware has also been known to persist by copying itself into your backups. Some will lie dormant until you restore files, then activate again.
How to Protect Against Ransomware
Recovering from a ransomware attack can be time-consuming and frustrating. Here are proactive tips to avoid becoming a victim in the first place:
- Maintain up-to-date antivirus software and enable real-time protection.
- Be vigilant of phishing emails and don’t open attachments or click links from unknown senders.
- Avoid downloading software cracks, illegal software, or pirated media.
- Use ad blockers and pop-up blockers in your browser.
- Only download programs from official vendor sites.
- Disable RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) if not needed or restrict access.
- Regularly backup files offline and test restores.
- Keep software, browsers, and operating systems patched and updated.
- Use firewalls to restrict traffic and access between networks.
Ransomware developers are always inventing new tactics and variants. But the same basic security practices will go a long way in protecting devices. Know the warning signs of a ransomware infection as well. Unexpected pop-ups, encrypted files, ransom payment demands, and disrupted access to data all signal an attack.
Ransomware Protection for Businesses
Due to their valuable data and resources, businesses face heightened risk of ransomware attacks. Some additional protections include:
- Security awareness training to teach employees how to spot red flags.
- Email security with spam filtering and sandboxing of attachments.
- Network segmentation to limit spread between systems.
- Next-gen antivirus with advanced AI threat detection.
- Strict access controls and least privilege permissions.
- Patch management to rapidly deploy security updates.
Should You Pay the Ransom?
This is a complex issue without a clear answer, and paying the ransom is controversial. Opinions among security experts differ. Some argue paying encourages and funds cybercriminals to create more ransomware. But for businesses with valuable data or life-dependent systems encrypted, it may be the most practical way to recover operations. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to pay the ransom:
- The importance and sensitivity of the encrypted data
- If you have reliable backups to restore data with
- How much downtime can you endure without access to systems
- If the ransom amount is within your means to pay
- Whether paying goes against company policy or regulatory obligations
Even if you pay, there is no guarantee of getting a working decryption key. Ransomware gangs do not have a strong reputation for fair dealing. Make sure you first try free decryption tools, backups, shadow copies, and file recovery software. Paying should be a last resort after exhausting all options. If you do pay, use anonymizing services to maintain privacy and security.
Should Companies Pay Ransoms?
Companies and organizations should develop a plan for responding to ransomware attacks. Some general guidelines on paying ransoms for businesses include:
- Avoid paying ransoms unless absolutely critical. This encourages and enables cybercriminals.
- Try all possible alternatives first like decryptors, backups, and recovery tools.
- Only pay through anonymous channels like Bitcoin if paying the ransom.
- Have a policy for who can approve ransom payments.
- Consult experts like forensic analysts before paying ransoms.
- Closely evaluate the reliability of the attackers providing the decryption key.
- Have cyber insurance policies that may cover ransomware losses.
Paying ransoms should be an absolute last option after consulting legal, IT security, and company leadership. Having robust security and reliable backup systems are most important for surviving ransomware.
Conclusion
Ransomware is a constantly evolving threat that all individuals and businesses should take seriously. Infections can have devastating outcomes beyond just the ransom payment itself if critical data and systems are impacted for extended periods. The good news is that with proper security protections and the existence of free decryption tools, you can stop ransomware and recover encrypted files in many cases.
Guarding against ransomware before it strikes is ideal, but know that options exist if you become a victim. Remember to isolate infected devices, eliminate all traces of the ransomware, restore systems from clean backups, and harden your defenses afterwards. Avoiding payment should be the priority if possible, but it may be warranted based on your specific situation.
With advanced malware protection, secure backups, threat awareness training, controlled access, and the other best practices outlined here—you can empower yourself to fight back against ransomware. Don’t allow cybercriminals to profit off of your data and systems. Take action today to lock down your environment against ransomware attacks before it’s too late.