HentaiLocker 2.0 Ransomware

HentaiLocker 2.0 is a newly identified ransomware strain that encrypts victims’ files and appends the “.hentai” extension to them. Once the encryption process is complete, it drops a ransom note named “readme.txt”, instructing victims to contact the attackers for decryption instructions. This malware poses a significant threat to both individual users and organizations, as it can lead to permanent data loss if not addressed promptly.

Threat Overview

HentaiLocker 2.0 operates by encrypting files on the infected system, making them inaccessible to the user. The ransom note warns against attempting manual recovery or seeking third-party assistance, claiming that such actions could render the files undecryptable. Victims are urged to contact the attackers directly to obtain the decryption key, typically in exchange for a ransom payment.

Threat Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware
Encrypted File Extension	.hentai
Ransom Note File Name	readme.txt
Associated Email Addresses	Not specified
Detection Names	Not specified
Symptoms of Infection	Files encrypted with .hentai extension; presence of readme.txt ransom note
Damage	Permanent data loss; potential financial loss if ransom is paid
Distribution Methods	Phishing emails; malicious downloads; software vulnerabilities
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

In-Depth Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

HentaiLocker 2.0 is typically distributed through phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links, drive-by downloads from compromised websites, or bundled with legitimate software downloads from untrustworthy sources. Once executed, the ransomware encrypts files on the system and appends the “.hentai” extension to them. It also drops a ransom note named “readme.txt”, instructing victims to contact the attackers for decryption instructions.

What Does It Do?

Upon execution, HentaiLocker 2.0 scans the infected system for files to encrypt. It targets a wide range of file types, including documents, images, videos, and databases. After encryption, each file is renamed with the “.hentai” extension. The ransomware then creates a ransom note named “readme.txt”, which contains instructions for contacting the attackers to obtain the decryption key. The note warns victims not to attempt manual recovery or seek third-party assistance, claiming that such actions could render the files undecryptable.

Should You Be Worried About Your System?

Yes. HentaiLocker 2.0 poses a significant threat to your data and system integrity. If your files have been encrypted and display the “.hentai” extension, it is crucial to act promptly. Paying the ransom does not guarantee that you will receive the decryption key, and it encourages the attackers to continue their malicious activities. Instead, focus on removing the ransomware from your system and restoring your files from a secure backup if available.

Ransom Note Text

The ransom note dropped by HentaiLocker 2.0 is named “readme.txt” and contains the following message:

All your files have been encrypted.
Backups have been deleted.
Do not attempt to recover the files yourself, as this may render them undecryptable.
Contact us to obtain the decryption key.
Avoid seeking third-party assistance, as they may scam you.

Manual Ransomware Removal Process

Important: Manual removal is recommended only for experienced users, as incorrect actions can lead to data loss or incomplete removal of the ransomware. If unsure, consider the SpyHunter Removal Method for a guided, automated solution.

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

1. Immediately disable Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable to prevent the ransomware from communicating with remote servers.
2. This can prevent additional encryption or further infections.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

For Windows Users

1. Windows 10/11:
   • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
   • Under the Boot tab, select Safe boot and check Network.
   • Click Apply, then OK, and restart your PC.
2. Windows 7/8:
   • Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows starts.
   • Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

For Mac Users

1. Restart your Mac and hold the Shift key immediately after the startup chime.
2. Release the key when the Apple logo appears.
3. Your Mac will boot in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Identify and Terminate Malicious Processes

Windows

1. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Look for unusual processes consuming high CPU or memory.
3. Right-click on the suspicious process and select End Task.

Mac

1. Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
2. Look for unknown or high-resource-consuming processes.
3. Select the suspicious process and click Force Quit.

Step 4: Delete Ransomware Files

Windows

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to:
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
   • C:\Windows\System32
2. Identify and delete suspicious files (randomly named or recently modified items).
3. Clear temporary files:
   • Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
   • Delete all files in the Temp folder.

Mac

1. Open Finder and select Go > Go to Folder.
2. Type ~/Library/Application Support and check for unfamiliar files or folders.
3. Remove unknown .plist files from ~/Library/LaunchAgents.

Step 5: Remove Ransomware Entries from Registry or System Settings

Windows

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
3. Identify and delete ransomware-related registry entries.

Mac

1. Open System Preferences > Users & Groups.
2. Select the Login Items tab and remove any unknown startup programs.
3. Check ~/Library/Preferences for malicious settings.

Step 6: Restore System Using a Backup or Restore Point

Windows

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and press Enter.
2. Choose a restore point from before the infection and proceed.

Mac

1. Restart your Mac and enter macOS Utilities by holding Command + R.
2. Select Restore from Time Machine Backup and restore a safe backup.

Step 7: Attempt to Decrypt Files

• Check No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) for available decryption tools.
• If unavailable, restore files from backups.

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Automated Ransomware Removal with SpyHunter

If manual removal is too complex or risky, SpyHunter offers a safer, automated method for detecting and removing ransomware.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

• Get SpyHunter from the official Enigma Software website.

Step 2: Install SpyHunter

1. Open the downloaded file (SpyHunter-Installer.exe or .dmg for Mac users).
2. Follow the installation prompts.
3. Launch SpyHunter upon completion.

Step 3: Run a Full System Scan

1. Click Start Scan Now to detect malware and ransomware.
2. Wait for the scan to complete and review detected threats.

Step 4: Remove Detected Ransomware

1. Click Fix Threats to remove identified ransomware components.
2. SpyHunter will clean your system automatically.

Step 5: SpyHunter’s Custom Malware HelpDesk

1. If ransomware persists, use SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk for custom malware fixes.

Step 6: Restore Files

• Use backups stored on external drives or cloud storage.
• If no backup is available, check No More Ransom for decryption tools.

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Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks

• Keep backups: Use cloud storage or an external hard drive.
• Install a reliable security tool: SpyHunter offers real-time protection against malware.
• Enable Windows Defender or Mac security features for additional protection.
• Avoid phishing emails and unknown attachments.
• Regularly update Windows, macOS, and installed applications.

Conclusion

HentaiLocker 2.0 is a dangerous ransomware variant that encrypts your files and demands a ransom for their decryption. It is crucial to avoid paying the ransom, as this does not guarantee the recovery of your files and supports the attackers' activities. Instead, focus on removing the ransomware from your system using a reputable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter and restoring your files from a secure backup. Always maintain up-to-date backups and exercise caution when opening emails or downloading software from untrusted sources to prevent future infections.