Computer security researchers have discovered a new virus known as the TrumpLocker Ransomware which uses the AES-256 + RSA-2048 ciphers, continue reading our removal guide to learn more about it.
TrumpLocker Ransomware Description
The TrumpLocker ransomware has been discovered by security experts. This is a new strain based on VenusLocker which uses two strong ciphers to encrypt target user data and then extorts the victims for a ransomware payment. Like other similar threats it is written using the popular .NET Framework which has risen in popularity.
Once the infection has been made the virus engages its encryption engine. Depending on the file one of the following extensions is appended to the resulting file – .TheTrumpLockerf or .TheTrumpLockerp.
The initial security analysis shows that the virus skips the following folders:
Program Files, Program Files (x86), Windows, Python27, Python34, AliWangWang, Avira, wamp, Avira, 360, ATI,
Google, Intel, Internet Explorer, Kaspersky Lab, Microsoft Bing Pinyin, Microsoft Chart Controls, Microsoft Games,
Microsoft Office, Microsoft.NET, MicrosoftBAF, MSBuild, QQMailPlugin, Realtek, Skype, Reference Assemblies,
Tencent, USB Camera2, WinRAR, Windows Sidebar, Windows Portable Devices, Windows Photo Viewer, Windows NT,
Windows Media Player, Windows Mail, NVIDIA Corporation, Adobe, IObit, AVAST Software, CCleaner,
AVG, Mozilla Firefox, VirtualDJ, TeamViewer, ICQ, java, Yahoo!
A ransomware note is then crafted in a “What happen to my files.txt ” file which has the following contents:
You are hacked
Your personal files are encrypted
To decrypt and recover all your files, you need to pay 50 US dollars for decryption service.
1. Exchange 50 USD (or equivalent local currencies) to Bitcoins, and then send these Bitcoins to our Bitcoin receiving address: 1N82pq***
2. Send your Personal ID to our official email: [email protected]
3. You will receive your private key to recover your files within one working day.
For detailed information, please refer to the dialog or “What happen to myfiies.txt” on your desktop.
This virus also contains a screenlocker which prohibits the ordinary interaction with the computer unless it is removed completely.
TrumpLocker Ransomware Distribution
The initial discovery was done in the end of February 2017. The virus primarily targets English-speaking users and it is distributed globally. Due to the limited number of samples we cannot conclude which is the primary infection strategy employed by its operators. At this moment we can suspect that they use the most popular means which include the following:
- Email Spam – Computer hackers employ spam messages as a carrier for their viruses. Depending on the mechanism of execution the malware can be attached directly to the messages or sent in an infected document.
- Software Installers – Infected software installers can be used to deliver various viruses such as the TrumpLocker Ransomware. They are usually found on hacker-controlled download sites and pirate BitTorrent trackers.
- Dangerous Redirects – All sorts of browser hijackers and malicious ads can lead the computer victims to a malware download. Quality anti-spyware tools can detect the presence of such scripts and protect the computer owners from such activity.
| Name | TrumpLocker Ransomware |
| File Extensions | .TheTrumpLockerf оr .TheTrumpLockerp |
| Ransom | 50 US Dollars in Bitcoins |
| Easy Solution | You can skip all steps and remove TrumpLocker Ransomware ransomware with the help of an anti-malware tool. |
| Manual Solution | TrumpLocker Ransomware ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below. |
| Distribution | Spam Email Campaigns, malicious ads & etc. |
TrumpLocker Ransomware – How To Remove it and Prevent It From Coming Back
There are two ways of removal:
- With an anti-malware tool – this will also help prevention
- Manually – using the instructions below
TrumpLocker Ransomware Ransomware Removal
STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.
- 1) Hit WIN Key + R
- 2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK
Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”
STEP II: Show Hidden Files
- 1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
- – Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option
3) Windows 8/ 10
- – Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option
4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button
STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes
- 1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it
STEP IV: Remove Completely TrumpLocker Ransomware Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter
STEP V: Repair Windows Registry
- 1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys
Further help for Windows Registry repair
STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files
- 1) Use present backups
2) Restore your personal files using File History
- – Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar
- – Hit the “Restore” button
3) Using System Restore Point
- – Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps
STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures
- 1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.
SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter
