XINOF Ransomware

What is XINOF Ransomware?

If you have no desire to have your personal files encrypted by XINOF Ransomware, you have to be cautious about how to secure your Windows operating system. While it is important that you install all updates and also stay away from unreliable websites, that is not enough. Cybercriminals could introduce the infection’s payload via a fake document attached to a harmless-looking email. They also could attach it to the installer of some attractive, desirable program. Ultimately, cybercriminals know all of the ways in which malware can be distributed successfully, and if you think you can outsmart them, you have to think again. Even experienced Windows users might have trouble with that, which is why it is imperative that all users implement trusted anti-malware software. If it is too late for that now, you might be focused on deleting XINOF Ransomware; however, note that you must not forget about the system’s protection after the removal of the infection.

How does XINOF Ransomware work?

When XINOF Ransomware attacks, it encrypts all personal files. To ensure that you can spot these files right away, the infection attaches the “.EMAIL=[fonix@tuta.io]ID=[unique ID number].Fonix” extension as well. Due to this, this malware might also be recognized as FONIX Ransomware. There are only a few kinds of files that it does not encrypt, and these include files with “.reg,” “.msi,” and “.sys” extensions. Next to the encrypted files, you should find “# How To Decrypt Files #.hta,” a ransom note file that declares that Salsa20 and RSA-4098 encryption algorithms were used for the encryption. Needless to say, you cannot crack the encryption key yourself, and legitimate decryptors cannot help you either. On rare occasions, researchers are able to build free decryptors, but according to Anti-Spyware-101.com researchers, this has not happened for XINOF Ransomware yet. Do not hold your breath waiting for such a tool to emerge either. Unfortunately, this is great news for the attackers, who can prey on your desperation and trick you into thinking that they can offer a legitimate decryption key.

The ransom note file dropped by XINOF Ransomware informs that all victims can obtain the decryption key as long as they are willing to do a few things. First, victims need to communicate with the attackers by sending an email to fonix@tuta.io (or fonix@mailfence.com if no response comes). Without a doubt, you would be exposing yourself greatly by emailing cybercriminals, which is why we do not recommend it. If you have sent emails already, please watch out for blackmail, extortion, and scams. The ransom note informs that you will have to pay money to obtain the alleged decryptor, and it even threatens to raise the sum if the victim does not act within 48 hours. Links to webpages that explain how and where to purchase Bitcoins are included, and so it is obvious how the ransom is expected to be paid. So, should you go for it? Of course, you should not because there is no guarantee that you would get a decryptor! If you do not mind wasting money, and you are not afraid to communicate with cybercriminals, follow their instructions at your own risk. We suggest focusing on XINOF Ransomware removal instead.

How to delete XINOF Ransomware

Can you remove XINOF Ransomware from your operating system? That depends. Do you know where to find the launcher file? Do you know how to erase values in the Registry Editor? Do you know how to inspect the system for leftovers or other hidden threats afterward? It is not smart to underestimate malware, and if you lack experience, it might not be a good idea to waste time with manual removal. What is the alternative? We believe that implementing anti-malware software can be very rewarding. First and foremost, it can automatically delete XINOF Ransomware along with everything else that needs it. Second, it can rebuild your system’s protection. Remember that if you do not take care of that, you will not be able to guard it against new threats for long. Files also need to be protected, and we strongly recommend creating copies of all important files and then storing them online or on external drives. If you had backups right now, you could easily replace the encrypted files after the infection’s removal.

Removal Guide

1. If you can locate the launcher of the ransomware, right-click and Delete it.
2. Move to the Desktop and right-click and Delete these files: Cpriv.key, Cpub.key, SystemID.
3. Launch File Explorer by tapping Windows and E keys on the keyboard.
4. Enter %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\ into the quick access field.
5. Right-click and Delete the file named # How To Decrypt Files #.hta (eliminate all copies too).
6. Launch Run by tapping Windows and R keys on the keyboard.
7. Type regedit into the box and click OK to launch Registry Editor.
8. Go to HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run.
9. Right-click and Delete the value named PhoenixTechnology.
10. Go to HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce and repeat step 9.
11. Once your Empty Recycle Bin, immediately install a legitimate malware scanner.
12. Perform a complete system scan to examine your system for hidden leftovers. Download Removal Tool100% FREE spyware scan and
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