The Ransoc ransoomware is one of the latest screen locking malware that has the capability of inflicting large amounts of damage to the infected hosts. Learn more about the threat in our removal guide below.
| Name | Ransoc Ransomware |
| File Extensions | Does not alter any files |
| Ransom | Varies |
Special Feature | Screen Lock Function |
| Solution #1 | Use an advanced anti-malware tool to remove Ransoc Ransomware. |
| Solution #2 | Ransoc ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below. |
| Distribution | Spam Email Campaigns, Exploit kits, malicious ads & etc. |
Ransoc Ransomware Description
Proofpoint security researcheres have identified the latest screenlocking threat known as Ransoc ransomware. The first infections were spotted in the last week of October 2016 and unlike the traditional ransoomware strains which feature typical tactics, this malware uses a full-screen locker that prevents the users from accessing their programs and data.
The used scare tactic here is impersonating a law enforcement agency, one of the most typical strategies used by the criminal operators.
The virus was put through a thorough security analysis in a sandbox environment. The security experts concluded that all of the outbound and inbound traffic is relayed through the anonymous Tor network. Further examination of the Ransoc ransomware has revealed that the malware scans the local media file names for strings associated with child pornography.
Several interactions were done through various Skype, LinkedIn and Facebook profiles. The ransomware code also has traces of folders extracted from various Torrent software. As it appears the virus can connect and communicate with counterfeit social media profiles.
The ransomware is able to display accurate personal data which is captured from the contents of the hard drive, the Skype logs and the active social media profiles, even including the profile photo. The virus threatens to expose the “evidence” to the public providing the legitimate social media information. This clever social engineering trick is used to blackmail the users into thinking that they are actually going to be exposed for their “crimes”.
The security experts point out that the user files are not the main target here – the idea of the ransomware is to make the victim feel unsafe about their reputation. The following information about the owner is extracted from the victim hosts and the associated social media accounts:
- Name
- Birthday
- Phone
- Location Area
- Skype Account Details
- Facebook Account Details
- LinkedIn Account Details
- IP Address
- CPU Details
- System Details
- Pc Name
- Username
According to the security analysis the malware also has code that allows it to take images from the web cam of the infected computer.
The ransom note is displayed in a full-screen locker application. The underlying code actively checks every 100ms for the system processes regedit, msconfig and taskmngr for any user interactions. This is done in order to prevent any attempts of killing the process.
Persistence is also introduced to the system via registry key entries.
One of the most unusual features of the Ransoc ransomware is the inclusion of a credit card payment option.
Ransoc Ransomware Distribution
The Ransoc Ransomware is distributed via malicious ads (primarily through the Plugrush and Traffic Shop networks hosted on adult sites) and targets mainly Internet Explorer on the Microsoft Windows operating system and the Safari browser for Mac OS X. The other method for infection is the Nuclear Eexploit Kit through hacked WordPress sites. The IP address which has been used for file hosting is 128.31.0.39.
Ransoc Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Ransoc 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 Ransoc 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
