RedLocker Ransomware: Overview and Guide to Removal

RedLocker is a type of ransomware that encrypts files on infected systems and demands a ransom for their decryption. This malware falls under the category of crypto virus or file-locking ransomware, where the attacker locks users out of their data by encrypting it. The files are typically renamed with the “.redlocker” extension, making them inaccessible without decryption. RedLocker has emerged as a dangerous threat, and once it infects a system, the victim is presented with a ransom demand that threatens to double the ransom amount if payment is not made within 24 hours.

How RedLocker Ransomware Infects a System

Ransomware like RedLocker usually spreads through various malicious methods, with phishing emails and social engineering being the most common. Here are some of the main methods through which RedLocker can infiltrate a system:

• Infected Email Attachments: RedLocker often uses email phishing campaigns with malicious attachments. These files are usually disguised as legitimate documents, and opening them can trigger the ransomware's execution.
• Malicious Ads and Drive-by Downloads: Malicious ads or pop-ups on websites can exploit browser vulnerabilities to download and install RedLocker without the user’s knowledge.
• Torrent Websites and Malicious Links: Users may inadvertently download ransomware from untrustworthy websites or while engaging with torrents, pirated software, or fake software updates.
• USB Devices and Network Propagation: Once on a single machine, RedLocker can spread via local networks and removable storage devices, affecting other computers in the same environment.

The Damage Caused by RedLocker Ransomware

Once RedLocker successfully infiltrates a system, it encrypts a wide range of file types. These include documents, images, videos, and databases, effectively making critical files inaccessible. The encrypted files are marked with the ".redlocker" extension, such as "example.jpg.redlocker" or "document.docx.redlocker".

After encryption, RedLocker changes the victim's desktop wallpaper to display a ransom note. It also creates a text file named redlocker.bat that provides further instructions. Both these messages convey the same details: the victim's files have been locked, and in order to decrypt them, the attacker demands a payment of 500 USD in Bitcoin. However, the ransom amount is doubled if the victim fails to pay within 24 hours.

The attackers warn the victim not to try to use third-party decryption tools or rename the encrypted files, as doing so could make the data irreversibly corrupted.

Ransom Note Contents

The ransom note, found both in the "redlocker.bat" file and as the desktop wallpaper, delivers a straightforward demand:

WOOPS, YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!

Your important files have been encrypted by RedLocker. You will not be able to access them until they are decrypted.

You have 24 hours to pay $500 USD in Bitcoin. If you fail to pay in time, the ransom will double.

DO NOT TRY TO DECRYPT THE FILES YOURSELF. If you try to use decryption tools, you may damage your files beyond recovery.

To recover your files, open the "redlocker.bat" file and follow the instructions.

Bitcoin Payment Address: [Bitcoin Address]

WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE .redlocker EXTENSION OR YOU WILL DAMAGE YOUR FILES!

This message is designed to intimidate the victim into paying the ransom quickly. However, it’s important to note that paying the ransom does not guarantee that the attackers will provide the decryption key or restore the encrypted files.

How to Remove RedLocker Ransomware

If your system has been infected by RedLocker, it is critical to act quickly to prevent further damage. The first step is to remove the malware from your system to stop it from encrypting additional files. Here’s a comprehensive guide to removing RedLocker ransomware using SpyHunter, a reliable anti-malware tool.

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

To prevent the ransomware from communicating with its Command and Control server and possibly encrypting more files, disconnect your device from the internet immediately. Disable Wi-Fi and unplug Ethernet cables if necessary.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Before proceeding with the removal, booting into Safe Mode with Networking can help prevent RedLocker from starting up automatically:

1. Restart your computer.
2. As the computer reboots, press the F8 or Shift + F8 key repeatedly.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the boot options menu.

Step 3: Install and Update SpyHunter

1. Download SpyHunter from a clean device (if you cannot download directly on the infected machine).
2. Transfer the file to the infected computer via USB.
3. Install SpyHunter and launch the program.
4. Update SpyHunter to ensure it has the latest definitions for detecting ransomware.

Step 4: Scan Your System for RedLocker

Run a full system scan with SpyHunter. The program will check for malware, ransomware, and other malicious files that may be hiding on your system.

Step 5: Remove RedLocker

After the scan is completed, SpyHunter will display a list of threats. Select RedLocker and any other identified malware, then click Remove to eliminate the threat from your system.

Step 6: Restore Files from Backup

Unfortunately, removing RedLocker will not decrypt your files. If you have a backup of your files, restore them from a secure location that was not connected to the infected device.

If no backup is available, consider professional recovery services or tools to attempt decryption (although success is not guaranteed).

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Infections

To avoid falling victim to RedLocker or other ransomware in the future, it is crucial to adopt a proactive approach to security. Here are some preventive measures to protect your system:

1. Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure that your operating system, antivirus software, and all applications are regularly updated to fix any security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware.
2. Enable Real-Time Protection: Use real-time protection in your antivirus or anti-malware software to catch threats before they can execute.
3. Be Cautious with Email Attachments: Be wary of unsolicited email attachments or links, especially from unknown senders. Avoid opening suspicious files.
4. Regular Backups: Make regular backups of your important files and store them in multiple locations, such as cloud storage, external hard drives, or unplugged storage devices. Ensure backups are not connected to your main network to prevent ransomware from spreading.
5. Educate Yourself About Phishing: Familiarize yourself with common phishing techniques to avoid falling victim to social engineering tactics.
6. Use a Robust Firewall: Implement a strong firewall to block malicious incoming traffic and restrict unauthorized access to your network.

Final Thoughts

RedLocker ransomware is a dangerous threat that encrypts important files and demands a hefty ransom for decryption. While paying the ransom may seem like an easy solution, it is highly discouraged, as there is no guarantee of getting your files back, and it encourages cybercriminals to continue their malicious activities.

By following the steps outlined above to remove RedLocker and implementing preventive measures, you can greatly reduce your risk of falling victim to future ransomware attacks.