How to remove BlockFile12 ransomware virus

BlockFile12 ransomware virus takes files to hostage and demands to pay the ransom

BlockFile12 is a crypto-malware that encrypts files on the affected computers and distorts file names. After the attack, each of the targeted documents, multimedia files, and other data includes a contact information and .block_file12 file extension. Ransomware uses this scheme for renaming affected files: .===contact_mail===itankan12@gmail.com===.block_file12. Following data encryption, ransomware drops a ransom note on the desktop which is called HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.txt. The threatening letter explains that victims have to contact cyber criminals via itankan12@gmail.com email address in order to get instructions for data recovery. However, having conversations with crooks is not a good idea. They will probably use some psychological terror and blackmailing techniques to convince you to transfer particular amount of Bitcoins. The size of the ransom is unknown. It seems that cyber criminals decide the worth of the files individually. However, it doesn’t matter how much money they ask; you should not make the payment. Remove BlockFile12 from the computer and save your money. Cyber criminals may not provide you promised decryption software, but they will gladly use your money for future projects.

Apart from corrupting files, BlockFile12 might also open the backdoor for other malware. Thus, the longer you let it stay on your computer, the bigger risk you take to encounter other ransomware or data-stealing Trojans. If you are having thoughts about paying the ransom, we want to discourage you from making the wrong decision. Transferring Bitcoins will not remove ransomware from the computer. Besides, you may not get back your files because cyber criminals do not always keep up their promise.^[1] If you have data backups or at least some of your files saved in external or online storage, you have everything what you need. If not, you should try our alternative recovery options that are absolutely safe. However, you should think about data recovery after BlockFile12 removal. Thus, if you got infected, install FortectIntego, scroll down to the end of the article, and learn how to clean your device.

The main ways how ransomware infiltrates computers

BlockFile12 ransomware might get into the PC using several techniques. There’s no doubt that cybercriminals use social engineering techniques^[2] and spread numerous malicious emails that include infected attachments or links. Such emails might look like sent from governmental institutions, banks, delivery services, etc. The letter itself might inform about serious problems or necessity to check some information, and ask to open the attachment or visit a particular website. Once you do that malicious payload is downloaded and executed on the system. Furthermore, BlockFile12 hijack might also occur when you visit crafted website, click on a malware-laden ad or download bogus software. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid visiting high-risk Internet sites (e.g. adult-themed, gaming, gambling, etc.) and clicking online ads. We want to point out that malicious ads might also be placed on legitimate websites as well and barely differ from safe ads. Thus, before clicking that ad offering amazing shopping deal, you should think twice whether it’s actually worth taking a risk.

The step-by-step guide for BlockFile12 removal

We recommend performing automatic BlockFile12 removal using powerful security software. It’s the only safe way to get rid of all malicious files and processes. Ransomware-type viruses might inject codes into legitimate system processes; thus, terminating it manually is nearly impossible for regular computer users. In order to avoid causing damage to your PC, you should install malware removal program and run the system scan several times. We suggest assigning this task for FortectIntego, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. Of course, you can choose other security tools as well. However, if you cannot install the program and remove BlockFile12 automatically, you may find our instructions handy. Malware might be resistant. However, its removal is still possible!