How to remove Alpha Locker ransomware virus

Alpha Locker ransomware for sale in underground forums – beware of this computer virus!

It is not a secret that ransomware viruses, just like any other illicit products are being sold on the dark web^[1]. Alpha Locker virus is also being sold on dark web forums, reportedly for $65, which is relatively a cheap. Filthy ransomware authors suggests contacting them via email, however, we are not going to share their contacts for obvious reasons. The virus is written in C# programming language, is a lightweight application and has traditional ransomware features. According to authors of Alpha Locker malware, it generates unique keys for each victim, is capable of encrypting all connected drives, and even can continue the data encryption procedure when victim’s computer is turned off. The virus encrypts files with AES encryption and then uses RSA cryptography to encrypt the AES password. In general, the virus reminds us of EDA2 open-source ransomware, and most likely is based on it. Sadly, the educational ransomware code nowadays is widely used for real-life attacks^[2]. The malicious program infects the computer, then sends out POST request to its Command&Control server, and then receives a set of public and private RSA-2048 keys.

Clearly, the private key (required for data decryption) stays in the C&C server until the victim pays a ransom. The virus also changes desktop wallpaper and drops a ransom note titled Read Me (How Decrypt) !!!!.txt. The ransom note contains a link to a site where victims can go and pay the ransom in Bitcoins. Alpha Locker malware wants to extort 0.35 BTC from every single victim (approximately $264), which is four times greater than the virus’ price on the dark market. According to criminals, paying the ransom guarantees data recovery. However, since this ransomware is distributed my many criminals, you can never know who is willing to give you the decryption tools and who is not. You should not pay the ransom but delete the malware as soon as possible, because it can easily drop additional viruses on your system and cause you more problems. To remove Alpha Locker virus, use anti-spyware or anti-malware tools like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or FortectIntego.

How did I get infected with this ransomware variant?

Alpha Locker ransomware can be distributed in any way its distributors want. They can spread it via email spam, malware-laden ads, bundled downloads, or even exploit kits^[3]. However, most likely criminals who take part in Alpha Locker distribution aren’t very experienced programmers, so most likely this virus is going to be spread via bundled downloads and email only. Stay away from suspicious emails from unknown people urging you to “view contents of the attachment” or to click on a certain link in the email message. It takes only one careless click to install malware – unlike regular programs, they do not show installation wizards, do not provide user interfaces and similar content. We suggest you to follow your common sense and not click on content that raises your suspicion.

How to remove Alpha Locker virus?

Victims who have their files compromised by this malware should consider whether it is worth paying the ransom or not. Our team recommends you not to pay it because we know a lot of cases when victims actually bought Bitcoins and transferred them to criminals, but never received a reply since then. Such situation typically happens when the victim attempts to negotiate with cyber frauds. You should never do so! Besides, the decrypter might not function at all or arrive filled with malicious files^[4]. Instead of paying up, use your backups and remove Alpha Locker virus as soon as possible. Even if you have an anti-malware program, it might not be able to do its job properly, so to start Alpha Locker removal, you need to reboot your PC as instructed below. Then update your anti-malware software or install one and run a full system scan to fetch down Alpha Locker’s components and delete them for good.