What is PainLocker Ransomware?
PainLocker Ransomware seems to be a new version of a malicious file-encrypting program known as Everbe@airmail.cc Ransomware. It should also encipher various files located on the computer and leave a ransom note saying it is crucial to contact the cybercriminals who created this malware or the data will remain to be locked. The truth is, the files might still be lost even if you do like the hackers tell you because, in the end, no one can say what they will choose to do. Naturally, it seems to us the safest solution would be deleting PainLocker Ransomware with no hesitation. This will not bring any of your files back, but it will allow you to create new data or restore encrypted files from backup without any fear something might go wrong. If you think it would be smartest to clean your device too, you could follow the removal instructions available below this report as they will explain whole process step by step. However, users who have not decided yet what to do could read the rest of our article and learn more about this threat.
Where does PainLocker Ransomware come from?
The malware might travel with malicious installers offered on P2P file-sharing websites, infected email attachments sent by hackers who might use forged email addresses, etc. Thus, in cases such as this, threats like PainLocker Ransomware could be avoided if the user would be more cautious with unreliable email attachments and other data found on the Internet. Especially, users should keep away from sites suggesting pirated software or freeware from unknown creators. Another good idea would be to ensure the device is maximally protected. To ensure this our researchers at Anti-spyware-101.com recommend getting rid of all possible system’s weaknesses (e.g., unsecured passwords) and employing a legitimate antimalware tool. A reputable security tool could help you clean the system from other potential threats and also guard it against ones you may yet encounter.
How does PainLocker Ransomware work?
At the beginning the malware should locate the files it is targeting, e.g., photos, various documents, audio and video files, etc. Then PainLocker Ransomware should start encrypting them one by one. During this process, the files become unusable and are appended a second extension at the end of their names, e.g., picture.jpg.[pain@cock.lu].pain, text.docx.[pain@cock.lu].pain, and so on. Once this process is over, the malicious program is supposed to create text documents called !=How_recovery_files=!.txt in the directories containing locked data. In other words, you may find lots of its copies scattered through your computer’s folders.
We call the described text documents ransom notes even though they do not mention anything about paying a ransom because the text in them tell what to do to decipher your files. What’s more, since such malware is usually created for money extortion we are almost one hundred percent sure the reply email from hackers would state the user has to pay a ransom to get decryption tools. Just as we explained in the first paragraph, there is a possibility you might get scammed, and if you do not want this to happen, we advise you not to risk your savings by paying money to PainLocker Ransomware’s developers.
How to get rid of PainLocker Ransomware?
There are two different ways to erase this malicious program. First of all, users who are experienced and wish to deal with it manually could try to complete the instructions placed at the end of this text. They will explain how to search for data related to PainLocker Ransomware and how to eliminate it. Secondly, users who do not want to remove the malware manually could download a legitimate antimalware tool of their choice and make it scan the system for threats. Soon after the list of detections shows up there should be a deletion button allowing to deal with all identified malicious data at the same time.
Remove PainLocker Ransomware
- Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
- Select Task Manager.
- Search for the malware’s process.
- Select this process and click End Task.
- Leave Task Manager.
- Tap Windows key+E.
- Navigate to the following paths:
%TEMP%
%USERPROFILE%\desktop
%USERPROFILE%\downloads - Find the file that infected the device.
- Right-click the malicious file and press Delete.
- Find all files titled !=How_recovery_files=!.txt.
- Right-click the ransom notes separately and choose Delete.
- Close File Explorer.
- Empty your Recycle bin.
- Restart the system.
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