Allahu Akbar ransomware (virus) - Recovery Instructions Included

What is Allahu Akbar ransomware?

Allahu Akbar is a file-locking virus that can cause permanent data loss if there are no backups

Ransomware encrypts users' personal files and asks for ransom

Allahu Akbar is the name of a data-locking virus that has just been discovered by malware researchers and poses serious risks to its victims. This dangerous program uses complex encryption methods after entering an operating system to effectively encrypt users' files.

These include a variety of personal information, from images and videos to important documents. These files are given a distinctive “.allahuakbar” extension by the malware, which also changes their icons into blank white pages, making them unavailable and preventing previewing. After the encryption procedure is finished, the infected system generates a ransom note with the filename “how_to_decrypt.txt.”

The ransom note

Allahu Akbar ransomware generates a ransom note how_to_decrypt.txt which reads as follows:

All your files have been encrypted.

Because you don't care about the security, we, Allahu Akbar Team helps you store the, safetly.

You can send 3 of your encrypted files and we decrypt it for free.

You must follow these steps To decrypt your files :
1) Write on our e-mail :test@test.com ( In case of no answer in 24 hours check your spam folder
or write us to this e-mail: test2@test.com)

2) Obtain Bitcoin (You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins.
After payment we will send you the tool that will decrypt all your files.)

By asserting that all data have been encrypted and providing a short window of time to decode three files for free, the message seeks to evoke a sense of urgency and anxiety. The note further implies that the attackers are offering a service to help protect the victim's data in an effort to trick them into paying. It's possible that the mention of the “Allahu Akbar Team” is meant to instill worry.

It's important to ignore the pressure and intimidation techniques present in such notes, though. In order to explore safer and more moral possibilities for recovering their data, victims should report the incident to law enforcement authorities and seek advice from cybersecurity experts. Up-to-date security software, strict cybersecurity procedures, and regular data backups can all help shield users from ransomware attacks in the first place.

Cybercriminals pressure users into paying the ransom by using scare tactics

Distribution methods

The particular techniques used to spread the Allahu Akbar ransomware are still unknown. However, there are a few typical strategies that hackers frequently use. The malicious malware typically enters through an executable file (.exe), which is frequently hidden inside a compressed zip folder, integrated into macros^[1] of Microsoft Office documents, or disguising itself as an attachment that appears to be legitimate, like a fax. These incidents are typically linked to user error and a lack of knowledge of security flaws.

A prominent phenomenon is the propensity for certain people to install software that has been “cracked”^[2] in order to avoid paying for licensing. These software repositories, which operate in an unregulated and unsafe environment, regrettably serve as a breeding ground for malware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). Downloads from these sources almost often contain dangerous files.

Exploiting flaws in software or operating systems is a common strategy used by hackers. Thus, it is essential to regularly upgrade all systems and software parts. In response to recently discovered vulnerabilities, developers often deploy security updates, making non-compliance a possible point of vulnerability.

Use professional security tools to eliminate malicious files

The first thing to do is cut off the hacked device's connection to the local network. Unplugging the ethernet cable is sufficient as a fix for those at home. The disconnecting procedure could be challenging for people who run across this problem in a work environment. Detailed corporate environment guidelines are supplied at the end of this guide.

Attempting to restore your data prematurely carries the risk of irrevocable loss. Moreover, there exists the possibility of secondary encryption of your files. The malicious process will persist unabated until the root cause, represented by the malevolent files, is eradicated. Undertaking the removal of malicious software independently is not recommended unless you possess relevant experience.

Use anti-malware tools like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes to scan your system. This security software should find all the related files and entries and remove them automatically for you. In some cases, malware is not letting you use antivirus in normal mode, so you need to access Safe Mode and perform a full system scan from there:

Windows 7 / Vista / XP

1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing the F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.

Windows 10 / Windows 8

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Settings.
   
2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
4. Now scroll down to find the Advanced Startup section.
5. Click Restart now.
6. Select Troubleshoot.
7. Go to Advanced options.
8. Select Startup Settings.
9. Click Restart.
10. Press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.

Fix system errors

One should be prepared to experience performance deterioration, decreased stability, and usability concerns after a malware infection, which can call for a full reinstallation of the Windows operating system. These viruses have the capacity to disrupt crucial bootup processes, change the Windows registry database, delete or destroy crucial DLL files, among other things. A system file can no longer be repaired by traditional antivirus software once malware has damaged it.

Hence, the advent of FortectIntego aimed to address these concerns. This tool is proficient in rectifying a substantial portion of the harm incurred from infections of this nature. Blue Screen errors,^[3] system freezes, registry issues, and impaired DLL files can render a computer utterly nonfunctional. Through the application of this maintenance utility, the need for a full Windows reinstallation can be avoided.

File recovery options

The ability of anti-malware solutions to restore files is a common misperception; however, this is not how they were designed to work. Security programs basically work to find and remove harmful files and suspicious processes from your system. In reality, the recovery of files depends completely on having access to specialist software or a decryption key that is only available to hackers.

In scenarios where data was not previously backed up, the potential for permanent file loss exists. While resorting to data recovery software is an option, third-party applications are not universally equipped to decrypt files. We recommend, nonetheless, giving this avenue a try. It's important to preface this endeavor by duplicating the corrupted files and transferring them onto a USB flash drive or another storage medium. Moreover, exercise caution – only proceed with this method if you have successfully eradicated the Allahu Akbar ransomware from your system.

Before you begin, several pointers are essential while dealing with this situation:

• Since the encrypted data on your computer might permanently be damaged by security or data recovery software, you should first make backups of it – use a USB flash drive or another storage.
• Only attempt to recover your files using this method after you perform a scan with anti-malware software.

Install data recovery software

1. Download Data Recovery Pro.
2. Double-click the installer to launch it.
3. Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
4. As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
5. Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
6. Press Next.
7. At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
8. Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
9. You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
10. Press Recover to retrieve your files.