How to remove BlackRouter ransomware

BlackRouter ransomware – a file locking virus which has been actively spread as RaaS in hacking forums on Telegram

BlackRouter ransomware is a file-encrypting cyber threat which was first discovered by a cybersecurity researcher named Petrovic.^[1] This dangerous program can appear on the computer after opening a questionable email attachment or accessing an infected link on an unsafe website. Once installed, BlackRouter virus performs the encryption process by using unique codes, blocking access to targeted files, and adding the .BlackRouter or .pay2me extensions to each blocked document. After this activity, a note appears on the desktop screen. The “ReadME-BlackRouter” message announces about the encryption that was performed, provides the victim with blackRouter@live.com email address, and urges paying $300 to two wallets that are also provided in the text message. Recently, the virus was presented by hackers as a Ransomware-as-a-service Project. According to hackers on Telegram, they will take only 20% of generated ransoms for the “project.” Other money, collected as ransoms, will go to virus affiliates. Having this in mind, the possibility of getting infected increases.

BlackRouter ransomware usually infiltrates the system without no signs and the most common cause for this to happen is the user's lack of cautiousness. However, keep in mind that the malware has been actively spread with the help of illegal programs, cracks and similar files. Besides, security experts have warned that the virus also has the ability to get into the target PC after hacking the Remote Desktop Services.^[2]

Once installed, the ransomware virus can start injecting rogue entries into the Windows Registry section, leaving malicious objects in different locations, etc. In some cases, the ransomware itself can be capable of making the computer system more vulnerable to other malware infections such as cryptominers^[3] or trojans.

If BlackRouter ransomware shows up on your computer, you will be able to identify the virus easily as files will appear with the .BlackRouter appendix and you will also overcome this type of message:

BlackRouter

What's Happened to my computer?

Your important files are encrypted.
Many of your documents,photo,video,database,project
and other files are no longer accessible because they have
been encrypted. maybe you are busy looking for a way to
recover your files, but do not waste your time. nobody can
recover your files without our decryption service.

<…>

Moreover, crooks who spread viruses such as BlackRouter ransomware are keen on gaining as much income as they can. That is why these people often threaten their victims by saying that all files will be permanently gone if the price is not paid, also, that no other tool can decrypt locked documents, etc. However, note that not all of this information is true. Cybercriminals often lie to the users just to threaten and convince them to pay the demanded price.

We suggest staying away from any contact with the cyber crooks. Instead of paying the price, you should remove BlackRouter virus from the system automatically. Also, you can use a reputable computer tool such as FortectIntego to detect all objects that might have caused some damage. After the elimination is completed, you can take a look at some data recovery tips that we have written at the bottom of this article.

The BlackRouter ransomware removal is a necessary thing to do if you want to unlock your files properly and safely. If you do not get rid of the file locking virus before you start the decryption process, the malware might renew all of its malicious activities just right after another computer boot. Make sure you erase the threat carefully and use only reliable software for the process as other options will not be that effective.

Note that BlackRouter ransomware might have other damaging features also. Some ransomware viruses are capable of deleting Shadow Volume Copies of encrypted files which makes the documents harder to unlock. Furthermore, the ransomware might be able to inject other malware, such as a Trojan horse^[4] which might even relate in identity theft, software crashes, or computer breakdowns. If BlackRouter virus has been found, eliminate it ASAP.

Ransomware distribution techniques start from email spam

According to technology specialists from NoVirus.uk,^[5] ransomware viruses are often spread through rogue email messages and their attachments. The infected payload can come in the form of an attachment that is clipped to the email message or in a hyperlink which users can find in the email itself. Avoid all questionable messages you receive, delete them all.

Furthermore, ransomware is capable of reaching the targeted system through malware-laden pages also. Cybercriminals often place malicious content in hyperlinks which can be found on unsafe and unprotected web pages. If you ever enter a questionable-looking website, you should close that page immediately and never return to it again.

Additionally, for further protection, you can try antivirus software. Make sure you choose an expert-tested tool that will be capable of protecting various systems. If you take care of the program properly (this means updating once in a while), it will lengthen the work for you and you will be able to browse the web with no stress that an unwanted program might sneak in.

Perform the BlackRouter ransomware elimination and unlock files

You can remove BlackRouter virus only automatically. For this purpose, you should detect all dubious entries and other malicious content first. You can use a program such as FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes which will find every malware-laden component for you. Note that you are not advised to get rid of the cyber threat on your own as the process might be too difficult for an inexperienced computer user.

If you try to carry out the BlackRouter ransomware removal on your own, you might cause only more damage. So, better leave the job for anti-malware tools this time. Moreover, after the process is completed, reboot your computer system to ensure that all malware-related activities were disabled and there are no ransomware components left.

Additionally, you can check out some data recovery steps that we have provided below this text. Trying to recover files by using third-party tools is definitely a better option than paying the demanded price. The developers of BlackRouter ransomware might try to scam you and leave with no decryption tool, the opposite as promised.