Geek's Advice

Aris Locker is a ransomware that encrypts data and threatens its victims not to tell anyone

Aris Locker ransomware is a file-encrypting cyber threat that uses an AES-256 encryption algorithm to lock all files on the infected computer. They are appended with .Aris file extension and can no longer be used as previously. Victims are provided with Readme.txt file (that serves as a ransom note) in which they are demanded to pay $75 in Bitcoins to recover data. The attacker specifically indicates not to tell anyone about the infection and not report it or the locked files will be deleted permanently.

The message from the attacker first explains that the user’s computer has been infected with ransomware and indicates the cryptographic algorithm used to lock the data. Then the cybercriminal explains that none of the attempts to unlock information with free Aris Locker decryption tools will work. Further, the ransom note tries to intimidate victims not to tell or report the malware to anyone, or their IP, address, and username will be exposed.

Keep in mind that dealing will cybercriminals can lead to huge financial losses as they tend to disappear after ransom payments. Furthermore, they have the power to manipulate confused victims and demand to pay even more money after they contact them. Therefore, you should never try to get in touch with the attackers and remove Aris Locker virus as soon as you spot the infection. Later, you can recover your data from the latest backup copies.

Details of the ransom note

After threatening the victims to expose private details, the ransom note indicates four steps on how to pay the ransom. Firstly, people are asked to download BitPay and purchase $75 in Bitcoins via the cryptocurrency purchase option. Then, users are demanded to transfer the Bitcoins to a specific account indicated in the message and e-mail the attackers via the given address. Victims should also include their unique ID in the e-mail and supposedly wait approximately 4 hours to receive the decryptor.

Finally, the cyber criminals give one week from the infection to make the payment or the ransom increases to $500. This is a very common technique to create a sense of urgency and ensure that victims agree to pay the demanded amount of money. However, there are no guarantees that the attackers will send you the decryption tool after the payment or do not ask to transfer even more money.

Therefore, you should not risk by agreeing to the attacker’s demands. Instead, you can first perform Aris Locker removal with reputable antivirus software. We recommend using RESTORO to scan your computer files and uninstall all malicious remains. You can find detailed instructions explaining how to start the elimination procedure at the end of this article.

Ransomware Summary

Name	Aris Locker ransomware
Type	Ransomware, file-encrypting virus, crypto-malware, file locker
Extension	.Aris
Ransom note	Readme.txt
Symptoms	Once infiltrated, it starts encoding all information on the affected computer. They are marked with the extension and victims receive the ransom note right after the process is finished.
Damage	People cannot open or use any of the encrypted data; Also, attackers threaten to expose personal details of their victims
Spread	Illegal downloads from peer-to-peer (P2P) sites and malicious spam email campaigns
Decryption	Victims can recover their files by using backup copies stored in the Cloud
Removal	Uninstall the ransomware first, then repair virus damage with RESTORO

Avoid illegal downloads and spam emails to protect your PC

Most ransomware-type cyber threats are distributed via illegal software downloads on peer-to-peer (P2P) websites or malicious spam emails. Most users do not monitor their online behavior and search for software cracks on various illegal pages. Cybercriminals are aware of such behavior and take advantage of unsuspecting computer users.

The crooks upload ransomware executables that are named as popular software cracks and upload them on illegal sharing pages. Users are not able to check the file for infections and believe they are downloading the so-called crack. Unfortunately, once installed, it automatically starts encrypting computer files. Therefore, you should install applications only from verified websites.

Furthermore, another way how people infect their systems with ransomware is by opening unverified emails recklessly. In this case, cybercriminals have designed the email to resemble a notice from the bank that someone has tried to withdraw money from the account. Victims are asked to confirm or deny the withdrawal by clicking on the link. The link is programmed to start an automatic download of ransomware. Likewise, users should pay attention when opening emails.

Aris Locker virus uninstall guide

People should bear in mind that file-encrypting viruses are highly complex and dangerous. Victims should strictly follow the uninstall guide that explains how to start and complete Aris Locker removal from the infected computer. You can find the guidelines right after this article.

They will explain how to remove Aris Locker ransomware virus with professional antivirus software. Our pick is RESTORO as it is can function as a malware removal tool that also offers to fix virus damage afterward.

Once you get rid of all malware-related components, you should think about ways to recover your data. Keep in mind that the majority of decryption tools that are uploaded by unverified sources can lead to further ransomware infections. Currently, the Aris Locker decryptor is still under development. Thus, you should avoid installing suspicious unlock keys and recover your data by using backups instead.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:

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Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

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System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

If you're looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek's Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

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