How to remove ScorpionLocker ransomware

ScorpionLocker ransomware is a file-encrypting virus that can destroy your files

ScorpionLocker is a crypto-virus^[1] based on HiddenTear malware. The dangerous cyber threat enters victims machines unnoticed and, after strengthening its presence within the system, locks up a variety of files using AES cipher. The virus adds .ScorpionLocker extension of each of the affected files and demands a ransom of 0.1 BTC to be paid for data release key.

Ransomware viruses typically invade computers via spam emails or websites that are injected with malicious JavaScript code. As soon ScorpionLocker virus enters the targeted PC, it instantaneously modifies Windows registry entries to ensure the boot up every time the computer is started.

Next, ScorpionLocker modifies a variety of different files, including .doc, .html, .jpg, .txt, .avi, etc. by appending the extension to them. This allows hackers to demand payment for the decryption key, which is stored on a remote server and created for each of the victims individually.

As soon as malware locks up all files, it drops a lock screen with the information about what needs to be done in order to regain control of all personal data. The message states the following:

YOUR PERSONAL FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files have been encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key, generated for this computer. Private decryption key is stored on a secret internet server and nobody can decrypt your files until you pay obtain the private key.
1. Pay amount 0.1 BTC (about if 1050 USD) to address 1GZ1TyxpJH6VuHkFUK8PY5fKKdvw8CQQiS
2. Transaction will take about 15-30 minutes to confirm,
Meet me: scorpionlocker@gmail.com
BTC Address: 1GZ1TyxpJH6VuHkFUK8PY5fKKdvw8CQQiS

As you can see, the only goal cybercriminals have is to obtain money illegally from innocent victims. Regardless of how scary the situation might be, you should never pay the ransom and contact cybercriminals as they are known to ignore users, even after payment is processed. Instead, you should remove ScorpionLocker using FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes and then proceed with the file recovery procedure.

Unfortunately, ScorpionLocker ransomware decrypt is not yet created. However, users can try using HiddenTear decryptor which was developed a while ago. Also, victims are in luck if they had their files backed up on an external HDD or a remote server, like Dropbox. Nevertheless, we also provide several other options that might help users to get their files back.

Overall, ransomware infection is really dangerous as it directly affects files and users might end up losing them all. Regardless of the terrible situation, you shout not fulfill hackers’ demands and firstly carry out ScorpionLocker removal. Anti-virus engines detect the malicious file,^[2] so you should make sure that you have robust security software installed at all times.

Distribution methods of dangerous malware

The most prominent distribution method of ransomware is via contaminated email attachments. Therefore, security experts^[3] advise never to open emails from unknown sources and delete them ASAP. Additionally, the email service provider has a built-in security system that flags up suspicious emails. So make sure never to ignore these warnings!
Additionally, dangerous malware can be obtained via hacked, fake software, malware-laden sites and exploit kits. Therefore, we highly recommend staying away from various file sharing websites and always pick legitimate sources for your downloads.

Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in various applications to infect victims with ransomware. Therefore, you should keep every single program on your computer up to date – especially operating system itself.

You need to eliminate the virus before trying to recover your files

Because ransomware is a complicated type of virus, we do not recommend manual ScorpionLocker removal as you are probably will not be successful. Besides, tampering with system files might lead to permanent computer damage. Thus, remove ScorpionLocker virus using a robust security tool, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes.

Remember that security software might be impossible to start in normal mode. Thus, reboot your PC in Safe Mode with Networking (as explained below) and start the program from there.