How to remove Blackout ransomware virus

Blackout threat pretends to be free open-source ransomware

Blackout virus poses as a file-encrypting threat which supposedly tests “the protection of OS Windows against ransomware.” In case you already “tested” it and your files got “accidentally” encrypted, the ransom message encourages you to contact the author via blackzd@derpymail.org, blackoutsupport@mai12tor.com, or blackzd@xmail.net.

If you do not receive any response within 72 hours, then you are instructed to access the certain onion website via Tor browser.

Additionally, the developer instructs you to download blackout_decryptor.exe. It would not be surprising if you were asked to pay a certain amount of money in exchange to your files. Now let’s get serious. If you became a victim of this “experimental file-encrypting software,” firstly, remove Blackout malware. Malware elimination tools such as FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes come in handy in this situation.

Open-source threats remain a huge cyber issue

HiddenTear, Blackout or other malware supposedly devised for educational measures provide opportunities for wannabe hackers to test their skills.^[1] The question why these patterns of ransomware have not been removed yet became a rhetoric inquiry.

Likewise, Blackout threats remains is still a test version rather than the virus created for educational purposes. It does not append any file extensions, but it manifests the capability to connect to Command and Control server. Here is a closer look to the ransom message indicated in README_1183339_23654.txt file.

Blackout ransomware is a free open source software.
The program is designed to test the protection of OS Windows against ransomware.
The developer of this software is not responsible for any damage caused by the program.
The program is experimental, and the entire responsibility for use lies with the user.
HOW TO USE:
To decrypt your files, you need the program blackout_decryptor.exe
If you do not have it, write to email: blackzd@derpymail.org or blackzd@xmail.net
In the letter, send your personal id and two small encrypted files for trial decryption.
If you dont get answer from blackzd@derpymail.org or blackzd@xmail.net in 72 hours,
you need to install Tor browser; you can download it here:
https://www.torproject.org/download/download.html.en
After installation, open the Tor browser to a website:
http://mail2tor2zyjdctd.onion/register.php
Do not waste time, but instead proceed to blackoutsupport@mai12tor.com removal stage.

Ways to get infected with the malware

Since this Windows-based infection is still under development, its distribution methods are still limited. It is likely to be distributed in torrent sharing or gaming sites. The trojan of the malware might be disguised in an application or file dropped in such websites.

Do not forget that the number of malware is spread in the form of spam email attachments. Exploit kits^[2] are popular among developers of more complex threats.

In any case, make sure your operating system is well protected. Install anti-malware tool and pay attention while installing a new program. Now let us discuss Blackout removal.

Delete Blackout ransomware

You can eliminate the threat with the assistance of a cyber security tool. Update it for it to detect all elements of the infection. The software should not take too long to remove Blackout virus.

If you cannot launch the tool, the threat must have meddled with the registry entries. In that case, restart the computer in a Safe Mode. There is also another method which assists netizens in getting rid of the threat. After Blackout removal, you can attempt data recovery. Though the malware universal, UK users^[3] have a sort preference among hackers.