How to remove .lockymap virus

.lockymap virus is a ransomware that hails from PyLocky family

.lockymap virus is a version of well-known PyLocky ransomware that actively encrypts personal data. Ransomware^[1] is using AES and RSA encryption^[2] methods to make users' files unusable. These files are marked by .lockymap file appendix indicating that the file is encrypted and only a specific key can unlock it. However, the most important feature helping this virus stand out from other crypto viruses is that it can also append yet another file extension on the same computer – .lockedfile. The ransom note used by Lockymap ransomware is named LOCKY-README.txt and is placed on every folder with encrypted files. 

Encryption process that .lockymap virus is using helps hackers to change the structure of a file and makes this data unusable. This process can be reversed after entering the special key which is help by hackers on their remote servers. However, you shouldn't trust the cybercriminals who claim that they are the ones who have this key for decryption. It is possible that the decryption tool doesn't even exist.

After this process is done, virus adds .lockymap file extension. Since this is a variant of PyLocky ransomware, you may see another appendix, like .locky or .lockedfile. Nevertheless, no matter which file extension is appended to your photos, videos, music or documents, this is the same cryptovirus that focuses on getting the money from its victims. 

After finding out that data is encrypted, you should also notice a ransom note saved in each of your folders or on the desktop. In this ransom message, the hacker behind the threat is stating that you need to pay the demanded ransom if you want to get your files decrypted and make them useful again. However, you shouldn't contact these people and pay the ransom because this can lead you to permanent data or money loss.

The ransom note for .lockymap file virus reads as follows:

Please be adviced:

All your files, pictures document and data has been encrypted with Military Grade Encryption RSA ABS-256.
Your information is not lost. But Encrypted.

In order for you to restore your files you have to purchase Decrypter.

Follow this steps to restore your files.

1* Download the Tor Browser. ( Just type in google “Download Tor“

2‘ Browse to URL : http://4wcgqlckaazungm.onion/index.php

3* Purchase the Decryptor to restore your files.

It is very simple. If you don’t believe that we can restore your files, then you can restore 1 file of image format for free.
Be aware the time is ticking. Price will be doubled every 96 hours so use it wisely.

Your unique ID :

CAUTION:

Please do not try to modify or delete any encrypted file as it will be hard to restore it.

SUPPORT:

You can contact support to help decrypt your files for you.

Click on support at http://4wcgqlckaazungm.onion/index.php

You should remove .lockymap virus from your computer because you cannot be sure that these hackers are going to keep their word and provide the decryption key after you pay the demanded ransom. Also, there is a possibility that they will decide to initiate yet another attack with the same type of virus.

The best solution for .lockymap virus removal is using anti-malware tools like FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. This is a great method to get rid of all malicious programs and prevent their negative activity. Besides, these tools are designed to fix virus damage (install missing components, replace files with the new ones, etc.) and prevent malware in the future.

The main issue regarding the data encryption is that there is no decryption tool developed by security experts at the moment of writing. However, you can replace corrupted files with the safe ones from a backup. If you don't have suck, find a few suggestions for data recovery below the article.  Finally, keep in mind that you have to take care of your files in the future by saving the most important data on devices that couldn't be reached by ransomware.

Ransomware relies on spam email attachments while trying to infiltrate systems

The main cryptovirus distribution method is a spam. You can get the infection the minute you open a downloaded file with a malicious script. Researchers^[3] always advise people not to download every file from the email box. Safe-looking Word or Excel files can contain malicious script directly spreading malware or even the Trojans who can distribute various programs on your computer silently.

You can avoid these cyber infections if you pay attention to what you are downloading on the device. If you are not expecting any email, delete suspicious messages from the spam email box. Always look for typos, grammar mistakes and misconnection between the file and the content on the email. Scan file before downloading and opening it on the device.

.lockymap ransomware virus removal require reputable tools 

You should protect your computer from further damage and remove .lockymap file virus immediately after you notice such a threat on your computer. You can do that by paying attention to altered file extensions and also a ransom note that typically explains the whole situation. To remove this ransomware, scan your computer fully by using the anti-malware program like FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. This is crucial if you want to restore your files in the future because you cannot do that on the infected system as there is a huge possibility that the virus will repeat its encryption.

Having in mind that .lockymap virus removal does not recover encrypted data, use suggestions below. Ransomware is a persistent infection which is set to swindle the money, so do not send your money to cyber criminals for files' recovery. You can check data repair methods that we prepared for you down below.