What is Masked Ransomware
Masked is another creation of scammers who work in the field of encryption of user data using a multi-stage algorithm, the consequences of which become unsuitable for further use and reading. Genealogically this threat belongs to the Aurora ransomware family. In addition to encryption itself, this changes the file extension to .masked. It is also worth noting that when decrypting mainly photos, video, audio and many other files that are of the greatest importance to the user. For this reason, many users are ready to do anything to get their files back.
This cryptovirus became active at the end of October 2019. Despite the fact that the virus was originally aimed at an English-speaking audience, Masked has already spread to almost all corners of the planet. The virus creates a special file @@_OpenTheBrowserTOR_@@.html in which encryption is described in detail, or rather, decryption and ransom payment methods.
>> RUSH GANG 1.3 << Attention :: your files were locked SORRY! Your files are encrypted. File contents are encrypted with random key. Random key is encrypted with RSA public key (2048 bit). We STRONGLY RECOMMEND you NOT to use any "decryption tools". These tools can damage your data, making recover IMPOSSIBLE. Also we recommend you not to contact data recovery companies. They will just contact us, buy the key and sell it to you at a higher price. If you want to decrypt your files, you have to get RSA private key. In order to get private key, write here: backupyourfiles@420blaze.it =========== !VERY IMPORTANT! Attach file is ZL0.key from %appdata% to email message, without it we will not be able to decrypt your files. =========== If someone else offers you files restoring? Ask him to decrypt any file for verification - this can protect you from fraud. After all, only we can successfully decrypt your files. In the return letter you will receive instructions of what to do next. BESTCHANGE.NET - Currency exchanger. Here you can buy BTC and make a transfer to us.
Like other cryptoviruses, Masked requires payment of a ransom, but the exact amount of the ransom is not indicated. The user is also invited to use the Tor browser to pay a ransom in the cryptocurrency Bitcoin, the cryptocurrency chose to hide the traces of the crime, because it is almost impossible to track such transactions. However, we strongly advise against paying a ransom, because there is no guarantee that the attackers will return your files to you. We strongly recommend that you use our recommendations and instructions to remove Masked and decrypt .masked files.
Well, there are 2 options for solving this problem. The first is to use an automatic removal utility that will remove the threat and all instances related to it. Moreover, it will save you time. Or you can use the Manual Removal Guide, but you should know that it might be very difficult to remove Masked ransomware manually without a specialist’s help.
Masked Removal Guide
Remember that you need to remove Masked Ransomware first and foremost to prevent further encryption of your files before the state of your data becomes totally useless. And only after that, you can start recovering your files. Removal must be performed according to the following steps:
- Download Masked Removal Tool.
- Remove Masked from Windows (7, 8, 8.1, Vista, XP, 10) or Mac OS (Run system in Safe Mode).
- Restore .Masked files
- How to protect PC from future infections.
How to remove Masked ransomware automatically:
Thor Home may help you to get rid of this virus and clean up your system. In case you need a proper and reliable antivirus, we recommend you to try it.
Alternative solution – Malwarebytes
This program will find malicious files, hijackers, adware, potentially unwanted programs and will neutralize it. Also, Norton will help you clean your system properly.
If you’re Mac user – use this.
Manual Masked Removal Guide
Here are step-by-step instructions to remove Masked from Windows and Mac computers. Follow these steps carefully and remove files and folders belonging to Masked. First of all, you need to run the system in a Safe Mode. Then find and remove needed files and folders.
Uninstall Masked from Windows or Mac
Here you may find the list of confirmed related to the ransomware files and registry keys. You should delete them in order to remove virus, however it would be easier to do it with our automatic removal tool. The list:
Masked.dll
_readme.txt
readme.txt
Windows 7/Vista:
- Restart the computer;
- Press Settings button;
- Choose Safe Mode;
- Find programs or files potentially related to Masked by using Removal Tool;
- Delete found files;
Windows 8/8.1:
- Restart the computer;
- Press Settings button;
- Choose Safe Mode;
- Find programs or files potentially related to Masked by using Removal Tool;
- Delete found files;
Windows 10:
- Restart the computer;
- Press Settings button;
- Choose Safe Mode;
- Find programs or files potentially related to Masked by using Removal Tool;
- Delete found files;
Windows XP:
- Restart the computer;
- Press Settings button;
- Choose Safe Mode;
- Find programs or files potentially related to Masked by using Removal Tool;
- Delete found files;
Mac OS:
- Restart the computer;
- Press and Hold Shift button, before system will be loaded;
- Release Shift button, when Apple logo appears;
- Find programs or files potentially related to Masked by using Removal Tool;
- Delete found files;
How to restore encrypted files
You can try to restore your files with special tools. You may find more detailed info on data recovery software in this article – recovery software. These programs may help you to restore files that were infected and encrypted by ransomware.
Restore data with Stellar Data Recovery
Stellar Data Recovery is able to find and restore different types of encrypted files, including removed emails.
- Download and install Stellar Data Recovery
- Choose drives and folders with your data, then press Scan.
- Select all the files in a folder, then click on Restore button.
- Manage export location. That’s it!
Restore encrypted files using Recuva
There is an alternative program, that may help you to recover files – Recuva.
- Run the Recuva;
- Follow instructions and wait until scan process ends;
- Find needed files, mark them and Press Recover button;
How to prevent ransomware infection?
It is always rewarding to prevent ransomware infection because of the consequences it may bring. There are a lot of difficulties in resolving issues with encoders viruses, that’s why it is very vital to keep a proper and reliable anti-ransomware software on your computer. In case you don’t have any, here you may find some of the best offers in order to protect your PC from disastrous viruses.
Malwarebytes
SpyHunter is a reliable antimalware removal tool application, that is able to protect your PC and prevent the infection from the start. The program is designed to be user-friendly and multi-functional.