Termite ransomware: what it is and how to remove it
Termite ransomware is a newly discovered cryptovirus which starts the encryption process right after infiltrating the system. However, according to the malware researcher from Israel, this version can also delete the original data of the victim and create new files with .aaaaaa extension.
Facts checked October 7, 2026. Removal steps tested on Windows 11 (26H2) and checked against Microsoft's and the browser makers' current documentation. Sections marked as our earlier report are the original text: they describe the threat as it was then and have not been reviewed since. The 2026 status, the removal steps and the questions are current.
Automatic
Get a free scan and check if your PC is infected.
Fortect finds malware, unwanted programs and the Windows damage they leave behind, and repairs it in one pass.
A free scan checks for the encryptor still on the PC; it does not decrypt .aaaaaa files.
Do it yourself · free Remove Termite ransomware yourself 6 steps, about 18 minutes, no software needed.
Start the steps
Termite ransomware: summary
| Distribution | Spam email attachment, breaking through RDP |
|---|---|
| Name | Termite ransomware |
| Type | Cryptovirus; data wiper |
| Extension | .aaaaaa |
| Payload file | Termite.exe |
| Ransom note | Displayed in a window on the screen; the text of the note is not in our records |
| Removal | Scan the PC with security software to find and remove the malware and anything installed with it. Fortect scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. Remove it nowTo use the full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Fortect. The scan is free. |
Show 11 more facts
| Detection names | No Microsoft detection name is known |
|---|---|
| Contact | 520@qq.com |
| Encrypted file extension | .aaaaaa |
| Decryptor | No free decryptor is known for this variant; check No More Ransom (nomoreransom.org) for updates |
| Damage | Not recorded in the old report |
| Symptoms | Files renamed with a new extension |
| Evidence | 4 write-ups by security sites; details still limited |
| Encrypted files | .aaaaaa |
| Free decryptor | No free decryptor is known (checked 7 October 2026) |
| First seen | 29 August 2018 |
| Facts checked | 7 October 2026 |
- File extension:
.aaaaaa
From our report of Aug 2018 · not reviewed since
More from our earlier report on Termite ransomware
- Use for Termite ransomware elimination
The Termite ransomware note
We did not record the full text of the ransom note in our report.
How to remove Termite ransomware
Tools you'll need
All of these are free except where noted. Download them on a clean device if the infected PC is offline.
- A USB stick: to keep the ransom note, two or three encrypted files and screenshots off the infected PC.
- Microsoft Defender Offline: built into Windows 11 and Windows 10; scans before Windows starts, so running malware cannot hide.
- Microsoft Safety Scanner: a second, portable scanner with current signatures; each download works for 10 days.
- ID Ransomware: identifies the family from the note and one encrypted file and says whether a decryptor exists.
- No More Ransom: the free decryptors from police and security companies; check it again every few months.
- Fortect (optional): scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. The free scan is in the box above.
How to remove Termite ransomware and get your files back
Work in this order.
Disconnecting comes first, removal comes before any restore, and nothing here asks you to contact the attackers.
Step 1: Disconnect the PC and unplug backup drives
Unplug the network cable or turn off Wi-Fi, and disconnect USB drives, external disks and network shares, so Termite ransomware cannot reach more files. Pause OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox sync, because synced folders upload the encrypted copies over the good ones.
Leave the PC on but offline while you read the next steps, since a restart can let the ransomware run again. This applies to Windows 11 and Windows 10 alike.
Windows 11: turn off Wi-Fi to take the PC offline. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 2: Save the ransom note and identify the family
The name of the family decides whether a free decryptor can help. Copy the ransom note and two small encrypted files to a USB stick, and check them on another device with ID Ransomware or Crypto Sheriff.
Note the extension added to the files, the contact address and the victim ID shown in the note. Keep the originals on the Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC untouched.
Windows 11: the ransom note and encrypted files to copy for identification. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 3: Check for a free decryptor
Our last check found that for Termite ransomware, no free decryptor is known (checked 7 October 2026). Look again yourself in the No More Ransom list and the free decryptor pages of Emsisoft, Avast and Kaspersky, which add new families every year.
A decryptor needs the ransomware gone first, or it encrypts the files again. Keep at least one copy of the encrypted files on an external drive, even if no tool works yet.
Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 4: Remove the ransomware before you restore or decrypt
Removing Termite ransomware does not bring the files back, but it has to come first. Start with Defender's Full scan, then the offline scan from the same Scan options page, which checks the disk before Windows loads.
If the scan cannot start, use Safe Mode with Networking. Delete the ransom notes only after you have saved a copy, because removal tools sometimes leave them behind on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Windows 11: Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Full procedure with screenshots: Run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan
Step 5: Look for shadow copies of the files
Windows keeps shadow copies for restore points and backups, and some ransomware fails to delete them.
vssadmin list shadowsin an administrator Command Prompt tells you at once whether any exist.If they do, right-click the folder that held your files, open Properties > Previous Versions, select a version from before the attack, and click Open to check it before you Restore or copy the files out. Windows 11 and Windows 10 both have the tab.
Windows 11: vssadmin list shadows shows whether shadow copies exist. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 6: Restore the files from a backup or recover deleted originals
A backup made before the attack is the surest way back. Connect it only once the PC is clean, then restore from File History, Windows Backup, OneDrive's Restore your OneDrive or your own external copies.
Without a backup, try file recovery: the originals that Termite ransomware deleted may still be on the disk until something overwrites them. Install nothing new on the drive you want to recover from on the Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC.
Full procedure with screenshots: Recover deleted files (Recycle Bin, backups, OneDrive) On uGetFix
Instructions for each browser and system
The detailed steps for every browser and system this guide covers. Open the one you use.
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.
From our report of Aug 2018 · not reviewed since
Termite ransomware is a dangerous cryptovirus that deletes your files instead of encrypting them
Termite ransomware is a newly discovered cryptovirus which starts the encryption process right after infiltrating the system.
However, according to the malware researcher from Israel, this version can also delete the original data of the victim and create new files with .aaaaaa extension. This file appendix makes this data useless since it is impossible to open it. The victim has no idea that his or her the most important files were doomed by the malware which can also be called as data wiper.
Termite virus can affect any file format and can delete images, videos, excel documents, and even the whole archives. The hacker who presents himself as the one who is responsible for the attack is called "IOS hacker tissue." The provided email address 314,520@qq.com seems to be useless.
This virus belongs to a crypto-virus category because of the main purpose to lock victims' files and extort their money. Typically, such viruses demand from $100 to $500 in exchange for a special key used for the decryption of lost files. However, it is still unknown how much is asked by Termite ransomware developers.
For locking data, cybercriminals have been using sophisticated encryption methods, like AES or RSA encryption algorithms. This file modification is irreversible, in most cases. The only way to get your files back is to receive the decryption key which is typically held by hackers on remove C&C servers.
In the typical ransom message, people who created the malware ask for a certain amount of cryptocurrency. They also reveal more details about the attack and often instruct their victims about the payment methods. In this case, there is a high possibility that you won't get your files back as Termite ransomware has possibly been deleting files instead of encrypting them.
Warning: So, you should never pay its developers as it has been recommended by numerous researchers.
Paying the ransom may be the reason for criminals to disappear but not to decrypt your data.
As you can see, Termite ransomware is an especially dangerous threat as it can cause a severe loss of your files. However, this is also not typical ransomware since there is no ransom note or any more details. This fact makes it more dangerous and unpredictable.
You should remove Termite ransomware as soon as possible so that you could avoid leading your PC to a major damage level. Keep in mind that ransomware can access various components on the system and make changes leaving you incapable of removing the virus.
For example, a virus can modify existing registry keys or can drop new files to make sure that it is launched every time your device is rebooted.
There is no surprise that Termite ransomware removal requires professional anti-malware programs. Ransomware can install other programs or tools on your computer, so you need a full system scan to get rid of them all. Anti-malware like are designed for fighting various malware, including ransomware.
From our report of Aug 2018 · not reviewed since
Ransomware can spread via insecure spam email attachments
The two most common ways of spreading ransomware are spam email attachments and poorly protected RDP .
The first one is used for spreading various malware. Other infections like trojans can be designed for spreading ransomware payload further. Spam email attachments may also contain files with macro viruses or direct ransomware payload.
These email attachments can look safe and legitimate, but you can look for typos or grammar mistakes to take these emails apart. Do not open suspicious emails instead try to scan the file before downloading and opening it on your computer.
Remote Desktop Protocol attacks are used for ransomware spreading but not so often since it is illegal and dangerous. Hacker uploads files containing the ransomware payload on remote desktop services. This is an illegal activity that hackers use to spread more targetted malware.
From our report of Aug 2018 · not reviewed since
Proper Termite ransomware removal can be done with reputable tools
To remove Termite ransomware from your computer, you need to use professional anti-malware tools.
This is important because of the possible additional programs. Anti-malware tools like or can thoroughly scan the system of your device and detect all intruders that your device might have. These programs can find and remove cyber infections on various devices.
Termite ransomware removal is crucial if you want to restore your files. You cannot do that when your system is still affected by this virus. You can replace your data with files from backup after your PC is perfectly clean again.
Any data on plugged in devices may be modified by the ransomware already. The safest way is to store your files on an external device or cloud.
[GI=method-1]Try rebooting your device in Safe Mode with Networking. Follow these steps for this method:
[GI=method-2]System Restore feature might also be helpful when dealing with Termite ransomware:
You can also try this program if you accidentally deleted your data.
Windows Previous Versions feature is helpful if you want to restore individual files
If Termite ransomware encrypted your files and you want to recover the most important ones try this feature. However, the System Restore feature should be enabled before the initial attack.
ShadowExplorer is a helpful file recovery tool
If ransomware you are dealing with left Shadow Volume Copies, you can restore them using ShadowExplorer.
Decryption tool for Termite ransomware doesn't exist.
Report it and recover your files
Report it
Report the attack even if you do not expect the files back: insurers and banks ask for the report number, and police use the contacts in the note to link cases.
- United States
- FBI IC3 · FTC ReportFraud
- United Kingdom
- Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) · NCSC
- Australia
- ReportCyber (ASD)
- EU countries
- Europol: national reporting sites
Give the victim ID, the note and the date the files were encrypted. A business that holds personal data may also have to notify its data protection authority, in the EU within 72 hours.
Protect the files you restore
Restore only after the scans are clean and the PC no longer shows files that end in .aaaaaa and no longer open; otherwise the restored copies can be damaged again.
Then build a backup that survives the next infection:
- one copy in the cloud with version history
- one on an external drive that is disconnected between backups
- the working copy on the PC
Version history matters because a backup that syncs damaged files overwrites the good ones.
How to do this with the tools built into Windows: the 3-2-1 backup rule on Windows.
Stream videos without limitations, no matter where you are
There are multiple parties that could find out almost anything about you by checking your online activity.
While this is highly unlikely, advertisers and tech companies are constantly tracking you online. The first step to privacy should be a secure browser that focuses on tracker reduction to a minimum.
Even if you employ a secure browser, you will not be able to access websites that are restricted due to local government laws or other reasons. In other words, you may not be able to stream Disney+ or US-based Netflix in some countries. To bypass these restrictions, you can employ a powerful VPN, which provides dedicated servers for torrenting and streaming, not slowing you down in the process.
Data backups are important - recover your lost files
Ransomware is one of the biggest threats to personal data.
Once it is executed on a machine, it launches a sophisticated encryption algorithm that locks all your files, although it does not destroy them. The most common misconception is that anti-malware software can return files to their previous states. This is not true, however, and data remains locked after the malicious payload is deleted.
While regular data backups are the only secure method to recover your files after a ransomware attack, tools such as can also be effective and restore at least some of your lost data.
Questions about Termite ransomware
How do I open .aaaaaa files?
You cannot open them by renaming or by choosing another program. The .aaaaaa ending shows that Termite ransomware encrypted the content, and only the matching key can reverse it. Renaming a file back to .docx or .jpg changes nothing except the icon, and it can confuse a future decryptor, so leave the names as they are.
To get the content back, use a backup, an unencrypted copy elsewhere, or a decryptor listed on No More Ransom if one exists for Termite ransomware. Store the encrypted files on an external disk until then.
Is there a free Termite ransomware decryptor?
We last checked on 7 October 2026, and for Termite ransomware no free decryptor is known. We check No More Ransom, which collects free tools from police and security companies, and the decryptor pages of the major antivirus vendors. A working decryptor exists only when the encryption has a flaw or the keys were leaked or seized.
Ignore sites and videos that offer a "Termite ransomware decryptor" for download or for a fee: these are usually scams or malware. Real decryptors are free and come from known security companies or law enforcement. Keep the encrypted files in case a tool appears later.
Should I pay the ransom?
We advise against it, and so do the FBI, Europol and national cyber agencies. Payment does not guarantee a working tool: some attackers never reply, some tools damage files, and some variants have no decryptor at all. Paying also funds further attacks and can make you a target again.
Before considering payment, try every recovery option in this guide and report the attack. Companies must involve their legal adviser and insurer, because payments to sanctioned groups can be illegal. If files are truly irreplaceable, store the encrypted copies and wait; decryptors sometimes appear later.
Can a data-recovery company decrypt my files for a fee?
Only if a decryptor already exists or the company pays the attackers for you. Some "ransomware recovery" services advertise that they can decrypt families with no known flaw; in practice they negotiate with the attackers and add their own fee. Others use the same free tools listed on No More Ransom.
Before you hire anyone, ask in writing how they will recover the files, whether they will contact the attackers and what happens if they fail. A legitimate service answers clearly. If a free decryptor exists for your family, you can run it yourself.
How did Termite ransomware get on my computer?
The way Termite ransomware spreads has not been documented yet, so look at your own recent activity. On home PCs, ransomware most often comes with cracked programs, game cheats, key generators and fake updates, or with an e-mail attachment that was opened. On business networks, attackers usually log in through Remote Desktop with a stolen or guessed password.
Think back to what was downloaded or installed in the days before files that end in .aaaaaa and no longer open, and check the Downloads folder and Installed apps sorted by date. Keep anything suspicious for your report, but do not run it again.
Did Termite ransomware steal my files or passwords?
We do not know yet. Nothing published so far shows data theft by Termite ransomware, but the only confirmed sign is files that end in .aaaaaa and no longer open, which says nothing about what happened before. Many current ransomware attacks copy files or run a password stealer first, so it is wise to act as if they did.
From a clean device, change the passwords that were saved in the browsers on this PC, starting with e-mail and banking, sign out of all sessions and turn on two-step verification. Watch bank statements and account activity for the next few weeks.
Is Termite ransomware the same as other ransomware with a similar name?
Not necessarily. Ransomware names come from the file extension, the note or a word in the code, so unrelated families often end up with similar names, and one family can appear under several names. The difference matters: a decryptor or advice for one family does not fit another and can damage files.
Compare the ending added to your files and the exact name of the note with the summary table at the top of this guide, then upload the note and one encrypted file to ID Ransomware from a clean device. If the result names another family, follow the guide for that family instead.
Can I just remove .aaaaaa from the file names?
You can try it on a copy, but for real ransomware it will not help. The .aaaaaa extension is only a label; the file content has been scrambled with a key the attackers hold.
If a renamed copy opens normally, the malware only renamed files, which happens with some fake ransomware, and you can rename the rest back. If it does not open, leave the files as they are. Renaming encrypted files can confuse a decryptor later, so always work on copies.
My files got .aaaaaa overnight. What happened?
Ransomware often runs at night or when the PC is idle, so the encryption finishes before anyone notices. It usually entered earlier through a cracked program, a fake installer, an e-mail attachment or remote desktop with a weak password.
The .aaaaaa extension marks every file it reached. Start by disconnecting the PC from the network, then identify the family from the ransom note and one encrypted file, check for a decryptor, and look for copies in backups and OneDrive before you consider anything else.
Will Fortect remove Termite ransomware?
Fortect scans Windows for malware and unwanted programs and repairs the system files and settings they change, and its free scan shows what it finds on your PC before you decide anything.
For Termite ransomware, follow the plan above as well: the browser steps take back permissions and settings that no scanner treats as a threat, and uninstalling the program that brought it removes the source.
Run Microsoft Defender's full scan and, if anything was found, its offline scan as a second opinion. If the symptoms are gone after the plan and both scans are clean, there is nothing more to do.
Sources
- Twitter: Termite Ransomware (read October 7, 2026)
- ZonderVirus: ZonderVirus (read October 7, 2026)
- Nakedsecurity: Ransomware-spreading hackers sneak in through RDP (read October 7, 2026)
- CISA: StopRansomware (read October 7, 2026)
- No More Ransom (read October 7, 2026)