Pabluk L0cker Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The malware expert Jiri Kropac notified of a new Polish Pabluk L0cker ransomware which exhibits typical screenlocker behaviour, read our removal guide to learn more about it.

Pabluk L0cker Ransomware Description

Jiri Kropac notified the security community of the discovery of a new virus – the Pabluk L0cker ransomware. This is a typical screenlocker that is presumed to be of Polish origin as its ransomware note is written in the Polish language.

At the moment the security analysis is still ongoing and we have not detailed information about its encryption engine. What we know is that it is a strain of the AdvancedRansomware ransomware family of threats. It exhibits the typical behaviour patterns that are typical for these infections. Upon infection it locks down the computer and displays a ransomware note which extorts the victims for a rasomware payment.

Depending on the modification the virus may also encrypt target user data – documents, photos, music, configuration files and etc.

The ransomware’s note is written in Polish and a machine-translated version of it reads the following:

This computer has been locked!
To unlock the computer, please contact us by e-mail!
For schedules email CLICK button below

The researcher was able to obtain the unlock code which is “pabluk400”. However entering may not entirely remove the threat from the infected computers.

This is why victims should use a trusted anti-spyware solution to scan their computers and remove all traces of malware properly.

Pabluk L0cker Ransomware Distribution

The Pabluk L0cker Ransomware is delivered via the most popular virus infection methods:

• Software Installer Bundles – Virus are often bundled with software such as applications, games and patches. They can often be found on pirate download sites and BitTorrent trackers. /li>
• Email Spam – Email messages can often carry dangerous viruses such as the Pabluk L0cker. Spam campaigns can deliver the payload either via hyperlinks or file attachments. In many cases the hackers use social engineering tricks to lure the targets into infecting themselves.
• Dangerous Redirects – All sorts of malicious ads, hacked sites and browser hijackers can be used to deliver the malware and other similar threats to infected computers or site visitors.

Pabluk L0cker 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

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Pabluk L0cker Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Pabluk L0cker 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 Pabluk L0cker 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