Alma Locker Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The Alma Locker ransomware has been identified in August 2016 when the first hacker attacks with it started. Learn more about the technical details of the virus and how to remove it from infected systems by reading our article.

Alma Locker Ransomware Description

The Alma Locker Ransomware was discovered in August 20216 by the Proofpoint security researcher Darien Huss. This is a dangerous threat that has initiated several attack campaigns since its inception a few months ago.

Most of the instances of the Alma Locker ransomware were found to contain bugs in the source code. The developers were able to release updated versions that had active connections with the remote malicious C&C servers on the TOR network. They use an encrypted connection to safeguard the connection.

Upon infection the Alma Locker generates a random 5-character file name extension that is applied to the target user files. Each infected system also is given a unique 8-character victim ID. It is made up of the serial number of the C: system partition and the MAC address of the primary attached network interface. The used encryption cipher is AES-128

The ransomware searches all attached hard disks and partitions for files that it can affect. The following file name extensions are targeted:

.1cd, .3ds, .3gp, .accdb, .ape, .asp, .aspx, .bc6, .bc7, .bmp, .cdr, .cer, .cfg, .cfgx, .cpp, .cr2, .crt, .crw, .csr, .csv, .dbf, .dbx, .dcr, .dfx, .dib, .djvu, .doc, .docm, .docx, .dwg, .dwt, .dxf, .dxg, .eps, .htm, .html, .ibank, .indd, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .kdc, .kwm, .max, .mdb, .mdf, .odb, .odc, .odm, .odp, .ods, .odt, .orf, .p12, .p7b, .p7c, .pdf, .pef, .pem, .pfx, .php, .png, .pps, .ppt, .pptm, .pptx, .psd, .pst, .pub, .pwm, .qbb, .qbw, .raw, .rtf, .sln, .sql, .sqlite, .svg, .tif, .tiff, .txt, .vcf, .wallet, .wpd, .xls, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xml

While the encryption process is engaged the Alma Locker ransomware also has an exceptions list – if the following strings are found, then the files and folders will not be affected:

$recycle.bin
system volume information
program files
programdata
program files (x86)
windows
internet explorer
microsoft
mozilla
chrome
appdata
local settings
recycler
msocache
Unlock_files_

After all files have been encrypted and locked by the Alma Locker ransomware, the virus generates a ransom note that contains the links to the TOR payment gateway. In addition the hacker operators of the threat have also added a time limit to blackmail the user into paying the ransom sum – usually 1 Bitcoin.

The following files are created as the ransom note:

• Unlock_files_[random_extension].html
• Unlock_files_[random_extension].txt

The Alma Locker gateway also lets the users decrypt some of their files for free to test to make sure that by paying they can get restore their files.

Alma Locker Ransomware Distribution

The Alma Locker ransomware is distributed mainly using the RIG exploit kit, read our article for more details. This means that the hackers use various software vulnerabilities to gain access to the target systems.

Other ways of getting in contact with the virus is through social engineering, usually performed by spam email campaigns. They usually pose as legitimate services such as shipping companies, banks and other important institutions. The messages contain links or directly attach malicious binaries that carry the Alma Locker ransomware.

Alma Locker Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Alma Locker completely with a few mouse clicks.

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 Alma Locker 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