How to remove Annabelle 2.1 ransomware

Annabelle 2.1 ransomware is a wiper-type virus that corrupts all personal data on the computer

Annabelle 2.1 is malware that made a return after a year's break, although researchers believe that this variant of Annabelle ransomware was not developed by the same authors. This time, instead of encrypting data with AES-256^[1] encryption algorithm, the virus either fails to start entirely (researchers noted that the malicious code is full of bugs and often crashes) or appends .AnabelleCreate but does not actually encrypt data. Instead, it modifies the file structure by inserting the word “HACKED!!!!!,” corrupting them and preventing victims from accessing documents, music, videos, pictures, and other data. Annabelle 2.1 ransomware then spawns a pop-up window called “Annabelle” which falsely states that all files are encrypted and no recovery is possible. Annabelle 2.1 virus mainly targets Korean-speaking users, as this language used in the ransom message. 

Annabelle is a character from a famous horror movie, and that is what the original malware was based on. While the previously-distributed ransomware actually induced horror in users due to encrypted files, Annabelle 2.1 virus is a much lesser threat, as data is not encrypted by a key that is usually stored on a remote server.

However, it does not mean that  Annabelle 2.1 ransomware infection is harmless, as files still do get corrupted, although the chance of recovery is much higher than that of real crypto-locker. Nevertheless, it does seem that malware authors wanted to simply destroy the data on the device, as they state on the Korean-written ransom note:

Your computer files are all encrypted by Annabelle 2.1. If you try to recover you files, all of the data will be deleted.

1. There is no possibility to recover files
2. The software encrypts all files with SHA1 algorithm

In case the Annabelle 2.1 virus fails to detonate properly, it will not append an extension to data, although it might still show the ransom note. Regardless if malware fails to perform its actions correctly or not, users should focus on prompt Annabelle 2.1 ransomware removal.

Best way to accomplish that is by using anti-malware software that can detect the threat as one of the following names:^[2]

• TR/Ransom.cucom FortectIntego
• Ransom.Annabelle SpyHunterCombo Cleaner
• Win32:Trojan-gen
• Ransom.Win32.ANNABELLE.THCOEAI
• a variant of MSIL/Filecoder.RP
• Trojan-Ransom.Annabelle
• W32/Encoder.RP!tr.ransom, etc.

Once you remove Annabelle 2.1 ransomware from your device, you can recover your files by using recovery software. Beware that, even though the retrieval should be successful in most cases, it is not guaranteed.

Ransomware can be devastating – do not get infected!

Ransomware is one of the most dangerous malware families in the wild. While other types can be equally as dangerous (for example, the presence of data stealer can result in identity theft), ransomware usually leaves a large trace behind – locked files. What most regular users get wrong, however, is that the virus removal will not retrieve access to data, as its key is stored on a remote server controlled by hackers.

Thus, while ransomware is less likely to steal your sensitive information, it can take your files – forever. Depending on how important your data is, the effects might be minor or devastating. Regular users might lose invaluable files like personal photos or videos, while companies, organizations or even cities might suffer from major financial losses due to ransomware infection. For example, SamSam ransomware infection on one of the network computers cost Atlanta city $2.6 million to recover from the attack.^[3]

For that reason, experts^[4] recommend being careful when browsing the internet. Such precautionary measures like anti-virus protection, Firewall, software/system patching, file scanning reduce the chance of infection drastically. Also, you should stay away from high-risk websites (torrent, porn, gambling, etc.), be careful with spam email attachments and use strong passwords for each of your accounts. If you take cybersecurity lightly, the infection of malware is inevitable, so stay safe online.

Don't be scared of Annabelle 2.1 – remove it from you system with ease

Initially, Annabelle 2.1 virus infection might seem like the end of the world – seemingly locked files, scary doll picture, and the uncertainty about what's going to happen next. Well, things might be not as bad as they seem, as Annabelle 2.1 ransomware removal should be a relatively simple procedure, as long as adequate tools are used.

Once you remove Annabelle 2.1 ransomware thoroughly, you can proceed with file recovery. If you store backups or use System Restore feature, the recovery should not be hard. You will find all the download links for the software below, along with usage instructions. Additionally, you will find details of how to enter Safe Mode with Networking in case malware is interfering with security software.