Remove Lkfr ransomware (.lkfr virus)

Lkfr ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files. It comes from the Djvu/STOP ransomware family, and can be identified by the .lkfr extension added to all encrypted files. As you’ve likely already noticed, you cannot open any encrypted files, and that will remain the case if you do not decrypt them first. However, only the malicious actors operating this ransomware have the decryptor, and they will not send it to you unless you agree to pay the ransom. Even then, a decryptor is not necessarily guaranteed.

 

 

Lkfr ransomware, like other types of ransomware, is designed to target personal files such as photos, images, videos, and documents, as these are the files most important for users. Once encrypted, these files will have the extension .lkfr added to them, making it easier for you to identify which files have been affected and the specific ransomware variant involved. For instance, a file named text.txt would be changed to text.txt.lkfr after encryption. As you’ve probably noticed, files with this extension cannot be opened unless you use a decryptor first.

Once the ransomware has finished encrypting your files, it will create a _readme.txt file containing a ransom note. This note follows a typical format for this type of ransomware, outlining the steps to obtain the decryptor. Unfortunately, it requires paying a ransom. The requested amount is $999, but the note also states that a 50% discount is available for those who reach out within the first 72 hours.

The full _readme.txt ransom note is below:

ATTENTION!

Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
Do not ask assistants from youtube and recovery data sites for help in recovering your data.
They can use your free decryption quota and scam you.
Our contact is emails in this text document only.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-uNdL2KHHdy
Price of private key and decrypt software is $999.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $499.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@freshingmail.top

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelpyou@airmail.cc

Your personal ID:

While paying the ransom might seem like a good solution, it’s generally advised against doing so. One of the main reasons is that there’s no guarantee that those who pay will receive a decryptor. Dealing with cyber criminals means there’s little to trust in their promises, and many victims have unfortunately learned this the hard way.

To effectively combat ransomware, the best approach is to regularly back up your files. Having backup copies can significantly reduce the impact of a ransomware attack, allowing you to restore your files without much difficulty. If you already have backups in place, you can begin recovering your files once you successfully remove Lkfr ransomware from your device. Make sure to use a trustworthy anti-malware tool for this process; attempting a manual removal could lead to further damage or might not fully eliminate the ransomware. It’s important to ensure that the ransomware is completely removed before accessing your backup, as otherwise, it could encrypt those files as well.

If you haven’t made any backups, recovering your files will be much more challenging. In this case, your best bet may be to save the encrypted files and wait for a free decryptor to become available. If a free Lkfr ransomware decryptor does become accessible, you will be able to find it on NoMoreRansom.

How does ransomware infect computers?

Users often end up infecting their computers with malware due to poor browsing habits. Activities such as opening unsolicited email attachments, clicking on ads while visiting suspicious websites, or using torrents for pirating content significantly increase the risk of malware infections.

Torrents are particularly notorious for spreading malware. Torrent sites tend to have little moderation, making it easy for malicious actors to upload harmful files. Many users remain unaware of this threat until it’s too late, and multiple computers become infected. Malware is frequently found in torrents of popular films, TV shows, video games, and software. While it’s possible to identify malicious torrents, regular users may struggle to recognize the warning signs. Additionally, using torrents to pirate copyrighted material is not only dangerous, but is also content theft.

Another common method of spreading malware is through malspam, or malicious spam emails. This method is used to distribute various types of malware, including ransomware. For cybercriminals, it’s relatively low-effort. They buy email addresses on hacker forums, write a simple email masquerading as a legitimate company, and attach a harmful file. These emails can usually be identified easily due to numerous grammar and spelling mistakes and the usage of random email addresses. Furthermore, they typically address recipients with generic terms like User, Customer, or Member. Reputable companies will always refer to you by name in their correspondence.

In some instances, malicious email campaigns may be more sophisticated. To protect yourself from potential malware infections, it’s wise to scan unsolicited email attachments using anti-virus software or tools like VirusTotal.

Lkfr ransomware removal

To remove Lkfr ransomware from your computer, it’s essential to use anti-malware software. Attempting to delete Lkfr ransomware manually could lead to further complications, as ransomware is a complex type of malware. Use anti-virus software to handle the removal process for you. Once the ransomware is fully eliminated, you can restore your files from your backup.