BadEncript ransomware / virus (Recovery Instructions Included) - Bonus: Decryption Steps
BadEncript virus Removal Guide
What is BadEncript ransomware virus?
BadEncript ransomware is the file-encryption virus that drops the money demand on the desktop
BadEncript virus is a new file-encrypting virus that takes people's files hostage and demands paying the ransom. Malware spreads and infiltrates computers using various methods. After the attack, it silently works in the background and encrypts a wide range of personal files. It is still unknown which specific file types it targets, but the most popular picture, audio, video, and document formats are definitely in the ransomware’s target field. During data encryption, file-locking malware appends .bript file extension to each corrupted file. When users see this file extension, they should look for the ransom note that has been probably dropped on the desktop.
Name | BadEncript ransomware |
---|---|
Type | Cryptovirus, ransomware, file-locking malware |
Ransom note | The message gets delivered as a file on the system and changed as the desktop picture |
Demanded cryptocurrency | Bitcoin |
Distribution | File attachments from emails, malicious sites, other malware |
Removal | The best option for virus elimination – anti-malware tools. Other tips can be found below |
Repair | Your device gets more affected than only file encryption, so you should get the FortectIntego for virus damage fix |
The ransom note is called More.html, and it includes information about this unpleasant situation. The developers of the ransomware require to make the payment in bitcoins[1]. Surprisingly, the authors of the BadEncript ransomware did not reveal how much money they want. They might have forgotten to include this important fact in the ransom note, or this malware might be just a test version. We do not recommend figuring out how much money you should pay for the suspicious data recovery method.
One of the reasons why you should not consider paying the ransom[2] is that the decryption tool provided by the hackers might be not working properly. After transferring the money, the decryption software might not be active or with restored files, you might install other malware as well. Then, sooner or later you can expect the new ransomware attack and lose your files again.
Even though paying the ransom might seem like the only solution, you should not follow cyber criminals’ suggestions. If you have data backups[3], you can recover corrupted files as soon as you remove BadEncript from the computer. Indeed, data recovery might be complicated if you do not have backups; however, it’s still possible to retrieve at least some of your files.
Besides, there is always hope that malware researchers will manage to crack ransomware code and create a free decryption tool. For a proper virus removal we recommend installing SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes and running a full system scan as shown in the instructions provided at the end of the article.
Malware distribution strategies and how to avoid it
Malware researchers are still investigating the virus, so we cannot reveal one specific distribution technique. Ransomware users various ways to infiltrate the computers such as malicious email attachments, malvertising[4], exploit kits, bogus updates, or software installers.
Therefore, we recommend being extremely careful online because every careless click might cause a virus attack. Generally, infected email attachments[5] are the most popular ransomware distribution techniques, so we recommend double-checking the information before opening any attachment, especially if you decide to open a spam email.
Furthermore, you should not visit high-risk websites and click any suspicious ads there. However, new malvertising methods allow placing malicious ads even on legitimate websites, so you should know the consequences when you click on eye-catching advertisements that offer amazing products or shopping deals. Also, you should stay away from pop-ups that warn about outdated programs and suggest installing suspicious software. Keep in mind that the only safe source for software installation is official websites.
Guidelines for BadEncript virus elimination
Ransomware elimination requires employing professional malware removal programs such as SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes. We recommend these tools because they can remove the virus and all its related components. However, you can choose other programs, but don’t forget that cheap, free or illegal antivirus software will not do any good.
Using your chosen tool, you have to run a full system scan, but first, you have to update it to the newest version. If malware prevents from installing, updating, or running the problem, please, follow the instructions below. After BadEncript removal, you can recover your files from data backups. However, if you don’t have them, try our prepared additional data recovery methods explained at the end of this article. You should also consider a virus damage fix that FortectIntego can be helpful for.
Getting rid of BadEncript virus. Follow these steps
Isolate the infected computer
Some ransomware strains aim to infect not only one computer but hijack the entire network. As soon as one of the machines is infected, malware can spread via network and encrypt files everywhere else, including Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices. If your computer is connected to a network, it is important to isolate it to prevent re-infection after ransomware removal is complete.
The easiest way to disconnect a PC from everything is simply to plug out the ethernet cable. However, in the corporate environment, this might be extremely difficult to do (also would take a long time). The method below will disconnect from all the networks, including local and the internet, isolating each of the machines involved.
- Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter
- Go to Network and Internet
- Click Network and Sharing Center
- On the left, pick Change adapter settings
- Right-click on your connection (for example, Ethernet), and select Disable
- Confirm with Yes.
If you are using some type of cloud storage you are connected to, you should disconnect from it immediately. It is also advisable to disconnect all the external devices, such as USB flash sticks, external HDDs, etc. Once the malware elimination process is finished, you can connect your computers to the network and internet, as explained above, but by pressing Enable instead.
Scan your system with anti-malware
If you are a victim of ransomware, you should employ anti-malware software for its removal. Some ransomware can self-destruct after the file encryption process is finished. Even in such cases, malware might leave various data-stealing modules or could operate in conjunction with other malicious programs on your device.
SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes can detect and eliminate all ransomware-related files, additional modules, along with other viruses that could be hiding on your system. The security software is really easy to use and does not require any prior IT knowledge to succeed in the malware removal process.
Repair damaged system components
Once a computer is infected with malware, its system is changed to operate differently. For example, an infection can alter the Windows registry database, damage vital bootup and other sections, delete or corrupt DLL files, etc. Once a system file is damaged by malware, antivirus software is not capable of doing anything about it, leaving it just the way it is. Consequently, users might experience performance, stability, and usability issues, to the point where a full Windows reinstall is required.
Therefore, we highly recommend using a one-of-a-kind, patented technology of FortectIntego repair. Not only can it fix virus damage after the infection, but it is also capable of removing malware that has already broken into the system thanks to several engines used by the program. Besides, the application is also capable of fixing various Windows-related issues that are not caused by malware infections, for example, Blue Screen errors, freezes, registry errors, damaged DLLs, etc.
- Download the application by clicking on the link above
- Click on the ReimageRepair.exe
- If User Account Control (UAC) shows up, select Yes
- Press Install and wait till the program finishes the installation process
- The analysis of your machine will begin immediately
- Once complete, check the results – they will be listed in the Summary
- You can now click on each of the issues and fix them manually
- If you see many problems that you find difficult to fix, we recommend you purchase the license and fix them automatically.
By employing FortectIntego, you would not have to worry about future computer issues, as most of them could be fixed quickly by performing a full system scan at any time. Most importantly, you could avoid the tedious process of Windows reinstallation in case things go very wrong due to one reason or another.
Restore files using data recovery software
Since many users do not prepare proper data backups prior to being attacked by ransomware, they might often lose access to their files permanently. Paying criminals is also very risky, as they might not fulfill the promises and never send back the required decryption tool.
While this might sound terrible, not all is lost – data recovery software might be able to help you in some situations (it highly depends on the encryption algorithm used, whether ransomware managed to complete the programmed tasks, etc.). Since there are thousands of different ransomware strains, it is immediately impossible to tell whether third-party software will work for you.
Therefore, we suggest trying regardless of which ransomware attacked your computer. Before you begin, several pointers are important 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
- Download Data Recovery Pro.
- Double-click the installer to launch it.
- Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
- As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
- Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
- Press Next.
- At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
- Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
- You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
- Press Recover to retrieve your files.
Create data backups to avoid file loss in the future
One of the many countermeasures for home users against ransomware is data backups. Even if your Windows get corrupted, you can reinstall everything from scratch and retrieve files from backups with minimal losses overall. Most importantly, you would not have to pay cybercriminals and risk your money as well.
Therefore, if you have already dealt with a ransomware attack, we strongly advise you to prepare backups for future use. There are two options available to you:
- Backup on a physical external drive, such as a USB flash drive or external HDD.
- Use cloud storage services.
The first method is not that convenient, however, as backups need to constantly be updated manually – although it is very reliable. Therefore, we highly advise choosing cloud storage instead – it is easy to set up and efficient to sustain. The problem with it is that storage space is limited unless you want to pay for the subscription.
Using Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is a built-in tool that comes with every modern Windows version. By default, you get 5 GB of storage that you can use for free. You can increase that storage space, but for a price. Here's how to setup backups for OneDrive:
- Click on the OneDrive icon within your system tray.
- Select Help & Settings > Settings.
- If you don't see your email under the Account tab, you should click Add an account and proceed with the on-screen instructions to set yourself up.
- Once done, move to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
- Select Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, or a combination of whichever folders you want to backup.
- Press Start backup.
After this, all the files that are imported into the above-mentioned folders will be automatically backed for you. If you want to add other folders or files, you have to do that manually. For that, open File Explorer by pressing Win + E on your keyboard, and then click on the OneDrive icon. You should drag and drop folders you want to backup (or you can use Copy/Paste as well).
Using Google Drive
Google Drive is another great solution for free backups. The good news is that you get as much as 15GB for free by choosing this storage. There are also paid versions available, with significantly more storage to choose from.
You can access Google Drive via the web browser or use a desktop app you can download on the official website. If you want your files to be synced automatically, you will have to download the app, however.
- Download the Google Drive app installer and click on it.
- Wait a few seconds for it to be installed.
- Now click the arrow within your system tray – you should see Google Drive icon there, click it once.
- Click Get Started.
- Enter all the required information – your email/phone, and password.
- Now pick what you want to sync and backup. You can click on Choose Folder to add additional folders to the list.
- Once done, pick Next.
- Now you can select to sync items to be visible on your computer.
- Finally, press Start and wait till the sync is complete. Your files are now being backed up.
Manual removal using Safe Mode
Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.
Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking
Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment.
Windows 7 / Vista / XP
- Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing 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.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Windows 10 / Windows 8
- Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
- Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
- On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
- Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
- Click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Go to Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Press Restart.
- Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes
Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Click on More details.
- Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
- Right-click and select Open file location.
- Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
- Delete the contents of the malicious folder.
Step 3. Check program Startup
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Go to Startup tab.
- Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
Step 4. Delete virus files
Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:
- Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
- Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:
Temporary Internet Files
Downloads
Recycle Bin
Temporary files - Pick Clean up system files.
- You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):
%AppData%
%LocalAppData%
%ProgramData%
%WinDir%
After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.
Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from BadEncript and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes
How to prevent from getting ransomware
Protect your privacy – employ a VPN
There are several ways how to make your online time more private – you can access an incognito tab. However, there is no secret that even in this mode, you are tracked for advertising purposes. There is a way to add an extra layer of protection and create a completely anonymous web browsing practice with the help of Private Internet Access VPN. This software reroutes traffic through different servers, thus leaving your IP address and geolocation in disguise. Besides, it is based on a strict no-log policy, meaning that no data will be recorded, leaked, and available for both first and third parties. The combination of a secure web browser and Private Internet Access VPN will let you browse the Internet without a feeling of being spied or targeted by criminals.
No backups? No problem. Use a data recovery tool
If you wonder how data loss can occur, you should not look any further for answers – human errors, malware attacks, hardware failures, power cuts, natural disasters, or even simple negligence. In some cases, lost files are extremely important, and many straight out panic when such an unfortunate course of events happen. Due to this, you should always ensure that you prepare proper data backups on a regular basis.
If you were caught by surprise and did not have any backups to restore your files from, not everything is lost. Data Recovery Pro is one of the leading file recovery solutions you can find on the market – it is likely to restore even lost emails or data located on an external device.
- ^ Still Don't Get Bitcoin? Here's an Explanation Even a Five-Year-Old Will Understand. CoinDesk. Bitcoin News, Prices, Charts, Guides.
- ^ Cadie Thompson. Why you should never pay hackers if they take over your computer. Business Insider. Business and Investment news.
- ^ Backing up your important data. University of St Andrews. The newsletter of the university.
- ^ Juliana de Groot. What is Malvertising? How to Identify and Protect Against Malvertising Attacks. Digital Guardian. The Blog about data loss prevention.
- ^ Paul Ducklin. Ransomware in your inbox: the rise of malicious JavaScript attachments. Naked Security by Sophos. Computer Security News, Advice and Research.