Security experts announced the discovery of the Unlock26 ransomware, a new malware strain which is undergoing a security analysis.
Unlock26 Ransomware Description
Computer security researchers have just announced the discovery of a new malware threat, a new unknown virus strain known as the Unlock26 ransomware.
As the threat has just been reported we are still waiting for the initial security analysis to be complete to learn more about the virus’s technical details.
Upon infection the virus starts to operate. We presume that it uses an encryption engine like other similar threats. If this is the case then a strong encryption algorithm is used to target the most commonly used data.
After this process is complete the malware opens a ransom note crafted in a ReadMe-Q1u.htmlfile via the user’s browser. It contains the following short note:
“Your data was locked. To unlock your data follow the instructions below.”
The ransomware operators request the users to send them ” 6.e-002 BTC” as a ransomware payment. This is highly unusual as the victims need to calculate the end result.
Unlock26 Ransomware Distribution
We have only limited information about the malware samples and cannot judge the primary methods of infection. The discovery was made in late February 2016 and we presume that the criminal operators of the virus use the most popular methods:
- Software Installers – Software installers that bundle the malicious code with counterfeit software installers are found on pirate BitTorrent trackers and download sites.
- Email Spam Campaigns – Email spam campaigns are one of the most popular distribution techniques that are employed by the hackers. The virus is either attached directly to the emails themselves or is linked in the body. Recently the use of phishing tactics and infected documents, as well as scripts has resulted in an increased infection rate.
- 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.
Summary of the Unlock26 Ransomware
| Name | Unlock26 Ransomware |
| File Extensions | Unknown |
| Ransom | 6.e-002 Bitcoins |
| Easy Solution | You can skip all steps and remove Unlock26 Ransomware ransomware with the help of an anti-malware tool. |
| Manual Solution | Unlock26 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. |
Unlock26 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 Unlock26 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
