APT ransomware is an old and very persistent threat that made a huge impact in the beginning of the year. However a recent spike of attack campaigns with this payload have been spotted by security researchers that use this dangerous ransomware against various targets.
| Name | APT Ransomware Ransomware |
| File Extensions | .dll |
| Ransom | 1 Bitcoin |
| Solution #1 | APT ransomware can be removed easily with the help of an anti-malware tool, a program that will clean your computer from the virus, remove any additional cyber-security threats, and protect you in the future. |
| Solution #2 | APT Ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below. |
| Distribution | The APT ransomware is distributed via spam email campaigns that contain infected attachments or malicious links in the contents of the messages. |
APT Ransomware Description
The APT ransomware type is an advanced persistent threat that has been used to attack companies in the United States of America. Some of the alleged perpetrators and operators of the malware are alleged to be Chinese government agencies.
Some security researchers assumed that the ransomware variant was mostly designed by intermediate programmers, some security vendors state have discovered that there have been more than six major attacks with APT ransomware in the beginning of the year and all of them were highly sophisticated. The APT ransomware used security vulnerabilities in more than 100 computer hosts in every target country.
Some of the early targets that happened between December 2015 and January 2016 included a multi-national company from Southern California, A major business solutions vendor on the East Coast and a multi-national manufacturing company in the Southern States.
The APT ransomware is extremely dangerous because it encrypts target user files with very strong compression and blackmails the system owners into paying a ransom sum.
APT Ransomware Behavior
The APT ransomware infects the target host in several differentiated stages. The malicious code is sent to the targets via a variety of distribution methods – spam email campaigns, compromised ad networks and counterfeit software downloads.
When the first payload are executed to the target host, the malicious program exploits all built-in exploits. It then modifies the system, so that it can stay as long as possible without being detected by security software or the user. The next phase is to steal the private information and encrypt it with a strong cipher.
According to the published security research so far the motives behind the attack are unlike other ransomware variants, the operators of the attack campaign seek to inflict damage rather than gain income through hacks.
Investigation about the origins of the attackers and into current APT ransomware campaigns is ongoing.
APT Ransomware Ransomware Removal APT Ransomware Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete APT Ransomware 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 APT 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
