How to remove Leen ransomware

Leen ransomware – a sophisticated virus which encrypts users' files and demands ransom for their release

Leen ransomware is a severe virus that is capable of encrypting all users' files and demanding a ransom to be paid in order to retrieve data. The malware is a part of Scarab family – a widely spread virus that keeps coming back. Thus, security researchers tend to call it Scarab-Leen ransomware. The crypto-virus uses a complicated encryption algorithm^[1] to make data unusable and append .leen extension to each of the file. As soon as that is complete, users can find a ransom note in every folder named INSTRUCTIONS FOR RESTORING FILES.TXT. Cybercrooks demand payment in Bitcoins and ask victims to contact them via mr.leen@protonmail.com.

Just as many other ransomware viruses, Leen spreads via contaminated documents attached to spam emails. As soon as the user clicks on the attachment, the payload gets distributed, and several changes to the system are made. First of all, the malware alters registry entries.^[2] Then, it scans the machine for files to encrypt, mainly documents, databases, pictures, video, audio and other personal data. 

As soon as files are detected, malware adds .leen extension to each of the files, rendering them unusable. To make it even worse, the crypto-virus deletes shadow volume copies – an automatic backup system that is used by Windows. Nevertheless, the first action after that should not be the contact with cybercriminals, but a full Leen removal from the infected machine.

The ransomware then drops the ransom note into every infected folder, which consists of the following message:

IF YOU WANT TO GET ALL YOUR FILES BACK, PLEASE READ THIS
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC.
Now you should send us email with your personal identifier.
This email will be as confirmation you are ready to pay for decryption key.
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us.
After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Contact us using this email address: mr.leen@protonmail.com

Regardless of what .leen ransomware creators are promising, security experts^[3] suggest never to contact them, as they might never send the promised decryptor, even if the payment is processed. Additionally, crooks might send you malicious file that could inject more malware into your PC. It is true that a different key for every infected computer is needed, and only culprits possess it. Nevertheless, there are alternative methods to recover your files, such as using third-party software or backups.

However, if this kind of crypto-virus has hacked your PC – make sure to find a way to solve this problem without letting cybercriminals gain profit. What you need to do to remove Leen Ransomware is to download and install an anti-malware program, such as FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner.

Ransomware-type viruses usually are distributed through spam emails

Spam emails are the most prominent ransomware distribution method. Other ways how these crypto-viruses are spread:

• P2P networks (e.g. torrent sites), these sites usually present ransomware as safe and legitimate software;
• Software downloaded from dubious websites;
• Fake software updates;
• Trojans – they clear the way for ransomware to spread easily;
• Exploit kits can open the way for cybercriminals to inject malware – so, frequent updates are required.

To avoid system damage, we suggest you take precautions when browsing the internet. Please stay away from spam emails, as they can contain malicious links or attachments inside, which would lead to infection. Additionally, stay away from file-sharing or other questionable sites – repacked or cracked software is often injected with malicious code.

Also, download and keep your antivirus up-to-date as it is an effective tool to keep malware away.

Anti-malware tools will help you to remove Leen ransomware virus

To remove Scarab-Leen ransomware you need to use programs such as FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. These programs can easily detect malware and make sure that all the traces of it are eliminated. That said, do not attempt manual Leen removal as it can damage your computer even more.

The virus might block your security software. In that case, you should reboot your PC and enter Safe Mode with Networking, as explained below. After that, you can continue with file recovery procedure.