How to remove ProLock ransomware

What is ProLock?

Discovered by PeterM, ProLock is a rebranded version of PwndLocker ransomware. This ransomware encrypts files with the RSA-2048 algorithm, modifies filenames and creates a ransom message. ProLock appends the ".proLock" extension to the filenames of all encrypted files.

Research shows that it appends this extension several times, which might also indicate that it encrypts files several times. It creates ransom messages in the "[HOW TO RECOVER FILES].txt" files, which victims can find in folders that contain encrypted data.

The ransom messages that ProLock creates state that victims can retrieve their files by paying a ransom. Instructions about how to pay this are provided on a Tor website - a link to the relevant page can be found in each "[HOW TO RECOVER FILES].txt" text file.

This Tor page contains a Bitcoin wallet address to transfer cryptocurrency to ProLock's developers. At the time of research, cost of decryption was 60 BTCs, however, each victim may be asked to pay a different sum of Bitcoins. In any case, it is made clear that decryption without a payment is impossible.

Victims are warned not to try to modify files or decrypt them with third party software, since this might cause permanent data loss. ProLock's developers encourage people to pay the ransom immediately, as decryption keys are stored on a remote server for one month only.

They claim that they have gathered some sensitive information, and threaten to share it unless victims pay the ransom. Only the cyber criminals who designed the ransomware have the correct decryption tools. Note that most criminals do not send these tools, even if they are paid.

By paying the ransom, victims lose their data and money. Therefore, never pay any cyber criminals. Unfortunately, there is no way to decrypt files free of charge without tools held only by ProLock's developers. In such cases, files can only be recovered by restoring them from a backup.

Note that uninstalling ransomware prevents further data loss (encryption), however, it does not regain access to encrypted files (they remain encrypted).

Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data:

Generally, programs such as ProLock encrypt files and keep them inaccessible unless victims decrypt them with specific tools that can only be purchased from the developers. Main variables are ransom size and cryptographic algorithm (symmetric or asymmetric) that ransomware uses to encrypt data.

Some examples of other ransomware-type programs include Gate, LX and Tongda2000. Unfortunately, it is impossible to decrypt files without paying the ransom for tools/keys (not advised), unless ransomware contains bugs/flaws and is not fully developed.

Data loss caused by ransomware can be avoided by restoring files from a backup, which should be maintained on a remote server or unplugged storage device.

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Cyber criminals spread malware through Trojans, spam campaigns (emails), fake software updaters, software 'cracking' tools and dubious file and/or software download channels. Trojans are programs that can cause chain infections: if installed, they can install more malicious programs.

When cyber criminals use spam campaigns to spread malware, they send emails that contain a malicious attachment (or website link that downloads the malicious file). Malicious software is installed when recipients open a malicious attachment/file (or a file downloaded through a link).

Cyber criminals commonly send emails that contain a malicious Microsoft Office document, archive file (ZIP, RAR), executable file (.exe), PDF document or JavaScript file. Fake software updating tools usually infect systems by exploiting bugs/flaws of outdated software installed on the operating system, or by installing malware rather than updates and fixes.

Unofficial activation tools infect systems in a similar way: rather than activating licensed software free of charge, they install malicious software.

Unofficial websites, free file hosting, freeware download websites, third party downloaders, Peer-to-Peer networks (e.g., torrent clients, eMule) and other similar download channels host malicious files - downloading and opening them causes installation of malware.

Threat Summary:

Name	ProLock virus
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker.
Encrypted Files Extension	.proLock
Ransom Demand Message	[HOW TO RECOVER FILES].txt
Ransom Amount	At the time of research, the ransom was 60 Bitcoins, however, this might vary.
BTC Wallet Address	1LVLHAs4Vq9Yt9nHvvrgw9djtA7BiR8sKM, 1NCFTWLhsWqjm4dBaWJPn7QARDwekaqzUj
Cyber Criminal Contact	support981723721@protonmail.com, chec1kyourf1les@protonmail.com
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:Evo-gen [Susp]), BitDefender (Trojan.Peed.Gen), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.PwndLocker.A), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Wacatac.D!ml), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal)
Rogue Process Name	NAS_0.EXE (its name may vary)
Symptoms	Cannot open files stored on your computer, previously functional files now have a different extension (for example, my.docx.locked). A ransom demand message is displayed on your desktop. Cyber criminals demand payment of a ransom (usually in bitcoins) to unlock your files.
Additional Information	A ransom must supposedly be paid through a Tor website.
Distribution methods	Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads.
Damage	All files are encrypted and cannot be opened without paying a ransom. Additional password-stealing Trojans and malware infections can be installed together with a ransomware infection.
Malware Removal (Windows)	To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. ▼ Download Combo Cleaner To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

How to protect yourself from ransomware infections

Installed programs must be updated and activated through implemented functions and/or tools that are provided by official developers. Third party, unofficial tools can distribute malicious software. Furthermore, it is illegal to activate licensed programs with unofficial activation ('cracking') tools.

Attachments and web links in irrelevant emails received from suspicious, unknown addresses should not be opened. There is a high probability that they might be sent by cyber criminals. Therefore, email contents should be opened only when you are certain they will not cause damage.

All files should be downloaded from official ant trustworthy websites, and via direct links. Other tools are often used to proliferate malicious software (examples of untrusted channels are provided above). Regularly scan the operating system for threats with reputable antivirus or anti-spyware software and remove detected threats immediately.

Keep this software up to date. If your computer is already infected with ProLock, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Text presented in ProLock ransomware text file ("[HOW TO RECOVER FILES].txt"):

Your files have been encrypted by ProLock Ransomware using RSA-2048 algorithm.

   [.:Nothing personal just business:.]

No one can help you to restore files without our special decryption tool.

To get your files back you have to pay the decryption fee in BTC.
The final price depends on how fast you write to us.

   1. Download TOR browser: hxxps://www.torproject.org/
   2. Install the TOR Browser.
   3. Open the TOR Browser.
   4. Open our website in the TOR browser: msaoyrayohnp32tcgwcanhjouetb5k54aekgnwg7dcvtgtecpumrxpqd.onion
   5. Login using your ID -

   ***If you have any problems connecting or using TOR network:
   contact our support by email support981723721@protonmail.com

   [You'll receive instructions and price inside]

The decryption keys will be stored for 1 month.

We also have gathered your sensitive data.
We would share it in case you refuse to pay.

Decryption using third party software is impossible.
Attempts to self-decrypting files will result in the loss of your data.

ProLock Tor website (GIF):

Text in this page:

Hello, you are a victim of ProLock ransomware.

Your files have been encrypted using RSA2048 algorithm.

This algorithm is one of the strongest, it is impossible to decrypt files without known key.

As you understand, situation is very important.

You can decrypt 1-2 files for free as a proof of work.

We know that this computer is very valuable for you.

So we will give you appropriate price for recovering.

DON'T try to change files by yourself, DON'T use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions - these actions may entail damage of the private key and, as result, the loss of all your data.

All your sensitive data was downloaded on remote servers. If you do not pay in several days all these sensitive files will be published in social networks and public media.

To get your files unlocked, pay.

If you want to make test unlock, contact support.
Payment information
60 BTC

UNPAID

Send 60 BTC (in ONE payment) to:
don't include transaction fee in this amount
1LVLHAs4Vq9Yt9nHvvrgw9djtA7BiR8sKM
Available once every 12 hours

Screenshot of files encrypted by ProLock (".proLock" extension):

Update 15 May 15 2020 - The developers of ProLock ransomware have started cooperating with QakBot (QBot) Trojan to increase the number of infections. QakBot is a banking Trojan injected via malicious documents that are distributed via spam email campaigns.

Once infiltrated, QakBot connects to a remote server (at the time of research, this was cloud storage) and downloads and executes a batch of scripts, rather than simply injecting ProLock by itself. In this way, QakBot operates as a 'gateway'.

Update August 28, 2020 - Cyber criminals have recently released an updated variant of ProLock ransomware which appends a different file extension - ".pr0Lock". The ransom note and website remain identical. The only differences are contact email (chec1kyourf1les@protonmail.com) and size of ransom (255 Bitcoins instead of 60) as well as the cryptowallet address.

Screenshot of files encrypted by this ProLock ransomware variant (".pr0Lock" extension):

ProLock ransomware removal:

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Video suggesting what steps should be taken in case of a ransomware infection:

Quick menu:

• What is ProLock virus?
• STEP 1. Reporting ransomware to authorities.
• STEP 2. Isolating the infected device.
• STEP 3. Identifying the ransomware infection.
• STEP 4. Searching for ransomware decryption tools.
• STEP 5. Restoring files with data recovery tools.
• STEP 6. Creating data backups.

Reporting ransomware to authorities:

If you are a victim of a ransomware attack we recommend reporting this incident to authorities. By providing information to law enforcement agencies you will help track cybercrime and potentially assist in the prosecution of the attackers. Here's a list of authorities where you should report a ransomware attack. For the complete list of local cybersecurity centers and information on why you should report ransomware attacks, read this article.

List of local authorities where ransomware attacks should be reported (choose one depending on your residence address):

•  USA - Internet Crime Complaint Centre IC3
•  United Kingdom - Action Fraud
•  Spain - Policía Nacional
•  France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
•  Germany - Polizei
•  Italy - Polizia di Stato
•  The Netherlands - Politie
•  Poland - Policja
•  Portugal - Polícia Judiciária

Isolating the infected device:

Some ransomware-type infections are designed to encrypt files within external storage devices, infect them, and even spread throughout the entire local network. For this reason, it is very important to isolate the infected device (computer) as soon as possible.

Step 1: Disconnect from the internet.

The easiest way to disconnect a computer from the internet is to unplug the Ethernet cable from the motherboard, however, some devices are connected via a wireless network and for some users (especially those who are not particularly tech-savvy), disconnecting cables may seem troublesome. Therefore, you can also disconnect the system manually via Control Panel:

Navigate to the "Control Panel", click the search bar in the upper-right corner of the screen, enter "Network and Sharing Center" and select search result:

Click the "Change adapter settings" option in the upper-left corner of the window:

Right-click on each connection point and select "Disable". Once disabled, the system will no longer be connected to the internet. To re-enable the connection points, simply right-click again and select "Enable".

Step 2: Unplug all storage devices.

As mentioned above, ransomware might encrypt data and infiltrate all storage devices that are connected to the computer. For this reason, all external storage devices (flash drives, portable hard drives, etc.) should be disconnected immediately, however, we strongly advise you to eject each device before disconnecting to prevent data corruption:

Navigate to "My Computer", right-click on each connected device, and select "Eject":

Step 3: Log-out of cloud storage accounts.

Some ransomware-type might be able to hijack software that handles data stored within "the Cloud". Therefore, the data could be corrupted/encrypted. For this reason, you should log-out of all cloud storage accounts within browsers and other related software. You should also consider temporarily uninstalling the cloud-management software until the infection is completely removed.

Identify the ransomware infection:

To properly handle an infection, one must first identify it. Some ransomware infections use ransom-demand messages as an introduction (see the WALDO ransomware text file below).

This, however, is rare. In most cases, ransomware infections deliver more direct messages simply stating that data is encrypted and that victims must pay some sort of ransom. Note that ransomware-type infections typically generate messages with different file names (for example, "_readme.txt", "READ-ME.txt", "DECRYPTION_INSTRUCTIONS.txt", "DECRYPT_FILES.html", etc.). Therefore, using the name of a ransom message may seem like a good way to identify the infection. The problem is that most of these names are generic and some infections use the same names, even though the delivered messages are different and the infections themselves are unrelated. Therefore, using the message filename alone can be ineffective and even lead to permanent data loss (for example, by attempting to decrypt data using tools designed for different ransomware infections, users are likely to end up permanently damaging files and decryption will no longer be possible even with the correct tool).

Another way to identify a ransomware infection is to check the file extension, which is appended to each encrypted file. Ransomware infections are often named by the extensions they append (see files encrypted by Qewe ransomware below).

This method is only effective, however, when the appended extension is unique - many ransomware infections append a generic extension (for example, ".encrypted", ".enc", ".crypted", ".locked", etc.). In these cases, identifying ransomware by its appended extension becomes impossible.

One of the easiest and quickest ways to identify a ransomware infection is to use the ID Ransomware website. This service supports most existing ransomware infections. Victims simply upload a ransom message and/or one encrypted file (we advise you to upload both if possible).

The ransomware will be identified within seconds and you will be provided with various details, such as the name of the malware family to which the infection belongs, whether it is decryptable, and so on.

Example 1 (Qewe [Stop/Djvu] ransomware):

Example 2 (.iso [Phobos] ransomware):

If your data happens to be encrypted by ransomware that is not supported by ID Ransomware, you can always try searching the internet by using certain keywords (for example, a ransom message title, file extension, provided contact emails, crypto wallet addresses, etc.).

Search for ransomware decryption tools:

Encryption algorithms used by most ransomware-type infections are extremely sophisticated and, if the encryption is performed properly, only the developer is capable of restoring data. This is because decryption requires a specific key, which is generated during the encryption. Restoring data without the key is impossible. In most cases, cybercriminals store keys on a remote server, rather than using the infected machine as a host. Dharma (CrySis), Phobos, and other families of high-end ransomware infections are virtually flawless, and thus restoring data encrypted without the developers' involvement is simply impossible. Despite this, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain a number of flaws (for example, the use of identical encryption/decryption keys for each victim, keys stored locally, etc.). Therefore, always check for available decryption tools for any ransomware that infiltrates your computer.

Finding the correct decryption tool on the internet can be very frustrating. For this reason, we recommend that you use the No More Ransom Project and this is where identifying the ransomware infection is useful. The No More Ransom Project website contains a "Decryption Tools" section with a search bar. Enter the name of the identified ransomware, and all available decryptors (if there are any) will be listed.

Restore files with data recovery tools:

Depending on the situation (quality of ransomware infection, type of encryption algorithm used, etc.), restoring data with certain third-party tools might be possible. Therefore, we advise you to use the Recuva tool developed by CCleaner. This tool supports over a thousand data types (graphics, video, audio, documents, etc.) and it is very intuitive (little knowledge is necessary to recover data). In addition, the recovery feature is completely free.

Step 1: Perform a scan.

Run the Recuva application and follow the wizard. You will be prompted with several windows allowing you to choose what file types to look for, which locations should be scanned, etc. All you need to do is select the options you're looking for and start the scan. We advise you to enable the "Deep Scan" before starting, otherwise, the application's scanning capabilities will be restricted.

Wait for Recuva to complete the scan. The scanning duration depends on the volume of files (both in quantity and size) that you are scanning (for example, several hundred gigabytes could take over an hour to scan). Therefore, be patient during the scanning process. We also advise against modifying or deleting existing files, since this might interfere with the scan. If you add additional data (for example, downloading files/content) while scanning, this will prolong the process:

Step 2: Recover data.

Once the process is complete, select the folders/files you wish to restore and simply click "Recover". Note that some free space on your storage drive is necessary to restore data:

Create data backups:

Proper file management and creating backups is essential for data security. Therefore, always be very careful and think ahead.

Partition management: We recommend that you store your data in multiple partitions and avoid storing important files within the partition that contains the entire operating system. If you fall into a situation whereby you cannot boot the system and are forced to format the disk on which the operating system is installed (in most cases, this is where malware infections hide), you will lose all data stored within that drive. This is the advantage of having multiple partitions: if you have the entire storage device assigned to a single partition, you will be forced to delete everything, however, creating multiple partitions and allocating the data properly allows you to prevent such problems. You can easily format a single partition without affecting the others - therefore, one will be cleaned and the others will remain untouched, and your data will be saved. Managing partitions is quite simple and you can find all the necessary information on Microsoft's documentation web page.

Data backups: One of the most reliable backup methods is to use an external storage device and keep it unplugged. Copy your data to an external hard drive, flash (thumb) drive, SSD, HDD, or any other storage device, unplug it and store it in a dry place away from the sun and extreme temperatures. This method is, however, quite inefficient, since data backups and updates need to be made regularly. You can also use a cloud service or remote server. Here, an internet connection is required and there is always the chance of a security breach, although it's a really rare occasion.

We recommend using Microsoft OneDrive for backing up your files. OneDrive lets you store your personal files and data in the cloud, sync files across computers and mobile devices, allowing you to access and edit your files from all of your Windows devices. OneDrive lets you save, share and preview files, access download history, move, delete, and rename files, as well as create new folders, and much more.

You can back up your most important folders and files on your PC (your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders). Some of OneDrive’s more notable features include file versioning, which keeps older versions of files for up to 30 days. OneDrive features a recycling bin in which all of your deleted files are stored for a limited time. Deleted files are not counted as part of the user’s allocation.

The service is built using HTML5 technologies and allows you to upload files up to 300 MB via drag and drop into the web browser or up to 10 GB via the OneDrive desktop application. With OneDrive, you can download entire folders as a single ZIP file with up to 10,000 files, although it can’t exceed 15 GB per single download.

OneDrive comes with 5 GB of free storage out of the box, with an additional 100 GB, 1 TB, and 6 TB storage options available for a subscription-based fee. You can get one of these storage plans by either purchasing additional storage separately or with Office 365 subscription.

Creating a data backup:

The backup process is the same for all file types and folders. Here’s how you can back up your files using Microsoft OneDrive

Step 1: Choose the files/folders you want to backup.

Click the OneDrive cloud icon to open the OneDrive menu. While in this menu, you can customize your file backup settings.

Click Help & Settings and then select Settings from the drop-down menu.

Go to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.

In this menu, you can choose to backup the Desktop and all of the files on it, and Documents and Pictures folders, again, with all of the files in them. Click Start backup.

Now, when you add a file or folder in the Desktop and Documents and Pictures folders, they will be automatically backed up on OneDrive.

To add folders and files, not in the locations shown above, you have to add them manually.

Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of the folder/file you want to backup. Select the item, right-click it, and click Copy.

Then, navigate to OneDrive, right-click anywhere in the window and click Paste. Alternatively, you can just drag and drop a file into OneDrive. OneDrive will automatically create a backup of the folder/file.

All of the files added to the OneDrive folder are backed up in the cloud automatically. The green circle with the checkmark in it indicates that the file is available both locally and on OneDrive and that the file version is the same on both. The blue cloud icon indicates that the file has not been synced and is available only on OneDrive. The sync icon indicates that the file is currently syncing.

To access files only located on OneDrive online, go to the Help & Settings drop-down menu and select View online.

Step 2: Restore corrupted files.

OneDrive makes sure that the files stay in sync, so the version of the file on the computer is the same version on the cloud. However, if ransomware has encrypted your files, you can take advantage of OneDrive’s Version history feature that will allow you to restore the file versions prior to encryption.

Microsoft 365 has a ransomware detection feature that notifies you when your OneDrive files have been attacked and guide you through the process of restoring your files. It must be noted, however, that if you don’t have a paid Microsoft 365 subscription, you only get one detection and file recovery for free.

If your OneDrive files get deleted, corrupted, or infected by malware, you can restore your entire OneDrive to a previous state. Here’s how you can restore your entire OneDrive:

1. If you're signed in with a personal account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Options and select Restore your OneDrive.

If you're signed in with a work or school account,  click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Restore your OneDrive.

2. On the Restore your OneDrive page, select a date from the drop-down list. Note that if you're restoring your files after automatic ransomware detection, a restore date will be selected for you.

3. After configuring all of the file restoration options, click Restore to undo all the activities you selected.

The best way to avoid damage from ransomware infections is to maintain regular up-to-date backups.

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