V8Locker Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

Malware researchers have discovered the V8Locker Ransomware strain which can be quite devastating to the victims. Read our removal guide to learn more about it and discover how to remove existing infections.


Name
V8Locker

File Extensions
[email protected]__.v8 extension.

Ransom
Varies

Solution #1
You can skip all steps and remove V8Locker with the help of an anti-malware tool.

Solution #2
V8Locker 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.

V8Locker Ransomware Description

The V8Locker ransomware is a new strain that has been identified by the computer researchers. The encryption module uses a combination of the AES and RSA ciphers.

At the moment the strain is under an active investigation and we do not have detailed information about its impact. What we know is that the ransomware targets the most popular user files and encrypts them using the above-mentioned threats. The compromised files are renamed using the [email protected]__.v8 extension.

The crafted ransomware note reads the following:

What happened to your files ?
All of your files were protected by a strong encryption with RSA-2048. More information about the encryption keys using RSA-2048 can be found here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RSA_(cryptosystem)

What does this mean ?
This means that the structure and data within your files have
been irrevocably changed, you will not be able to work with
them, read them or see them, it is the same thing as losing
them forever, but with our help, you can restore them.

Contact us by email: [email protected]

Depending on the amount and types of files the ransomware operators may ask a different sum.

V8Locker Ransomware Distribution

The V8Locker Ransomware uses the typical distribution tactics by infecting targets mainly via spam email messages. The identified samples were identified in emails that used various social engineering tricks by impersonating legitimate institutions and types of content such as customs forms, financial documents and various types of notifications. Other ways of getting infected with the V8Locker ransomware is by exploit kits or hacks done using the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

V8Locker Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete V8Locker 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

Windows-key-plus-R-button-launch-Run-Box-in-Windows-illustrated

    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

    show-hidden-files-win8-10

    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 V8Locker Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

Manual removal of V8Locker requires being familiar with system files and registries. Removal of any important data can lead to permanent system damage. Prevent this troublesome effect – delete V8Locker ransomware with SpyHunter malware removal 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

    restore-your-personal-files-using-File-History-bestecuritysearch

      – Hit the “Restore” button

    3) Using System Restore Point

      – Hit WIN Key
      – Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

restore-files-using-system-restore-point

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

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Author : Martin Beltov

Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.


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