Geek's Advice

LOKD ransomware comes as the 212th version of STOP/DJVU malware

LOKD ransomware is the 212th version of STOP/DJVU, a file-encrypting virus that targets unsecured Windows computers. The virus aims to restrict access to personal files stored on the victim’s computer using AES/RSA cryptography. Therefore, once installed, ransomware starts scanning the system, encrypts files and adds .lokd file extensions to them, then drops ransom notes called _readme.txt. Once modified, files can be restored only with a special decryption key, which is stored in cybercriminals’ servers. The only way to restore files without paying the ransom is using data backups – however, not many people tend to create them regularly.

LOKD ransomware is very similar to another version of DJVU, LOKF, as both viruses operate almost identically. Once the malicious payload drops on victim’s computer, it rapidly starts encryping files on the system. The virus is set to exclude operating system folders. These folders are skipped in order to keep the system running.

Unfortunately, all other files, such as photos, videos, music, databases, documents, spreadsheets, archives and other file formats get encrypted. Once the havoc-breaking process is done, there is no way to open .lokd file type data. To inform the victim about the attack and possible further actions, ransomware creates and drops ransom notes. These can be found on Desktop, Documents, Downloads, and all other personal folders affected by the virus.

If you have been affected by this virus, we suggest you remove LOKD ransomware as soon as possible using the instructions provided below the post. Make sure you employ a trustworthy anti-malware or anti-virus tool. In addition, running a full system scan will remove AZORULT trojan, which this ransomware family installs on all victimized computers.

Ransomware Summary

Name	LOKD ransomware virus
Type	Ransomware
Origins	STOP/DJVU
File marker	.lokd extension
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490 if victim contacts the attackers within 72 hours or $980 later
Contact emails	helpdatarestore@firemail.cc, helpmanager@mail.ch
Distribution	Can be found in illegal online downloads, such as software cracks or KMSPico
Decryption possibilities	No chances to recover data, unless affected by offline encryption key
Removal	Remove using antivirus while in Safe Mode (scroll down for free instructions)

Explanation of the ransom note

The _readme.txt file left by LOKD file virus begins the message by stating that the victim can recover all files by purchasing a decrypt tool and unique key. The note also suggests a proof of decryption tool existence – the criminals ask to contact them via provided emails – helpdatarestore@firemail.cc or helpmanager@mail.ch and send one encrypted file for free decryption. In addition, the attackers suggest a discount price – 50% of the full ransom price in case the victim contacts them within 72 hours.

Otherwise, the ransom price remains the same – $980. It is a well-known fact that the cybercriminals ask victims to purchase Bitcoins or some other cryptocurrency, as this way their anonimity can be preserved easily. The ransom note also includes a personal ID, which helps the attackers identify their victim.

Clearly, cybersecurity experts do not recommend paying ransoms to virtual criminals as this supports their filthy business and motivates them to continue running it. You can check some interesting ransomware statistics in this article by Coveware.

Prospects to recover data based on encryption method used

Each victim of this ransomware is mainly interested whether it is possible to decrypt LOKD files. The answer really depends on two factors – whether you had a backup, and if not, if the ransomware used offline encryption method on your computer.

To begin with, LOKD ransomware uses online or offline encryption method based on its success to connect to its Command&Control server. It attempts to connect to it as soon as the virus gets executed on the system. If it reaches the server, it obtains individual encryption keys for each victim; therefore, it is called the online attack.

If the ransomware fails to connect to the C2 server, it uses one and only offline encryption key hidden in the virus’ source code. Therefore, there is only one decryption code for it. Therefore, all victims affected by the offline encryption can recover their files with one and same key as soon as someone pays the ransom and shares it with others.

You can determine whether your files have been affected by the online or offline key by going to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt file and checking the strings located there. If one of them ends in t1, it indicated offline attack. All other cases are tied with online encryption cases. You can check for decryption updates in this article about STOP decryptor.

Ways you can infected with this ransomware

LOKD ransomware is very similar to previous versions of STOP/DJVU, such as LOKF, REZM, NPPP, MMNN, OOSS and others. Each version hits victims once they download a compromised online download, specifically, software cracks or keygens. It has been noticed that STOP ransomware is distributed using this particular method only.

We’d like to remind you that by downloading illegal software activation tools you make a copyright infringement. In addition, you risk losing your private data as well. While STOP/DJVU variants do not threaten to publish victim’s data, other ransomware versions, such as Sodinokibi, do.

To avoid ransomware attacks in general, follow these guidelines:

• Never visit suspicious websites or download anything from them;
• Avoid illegal file sharing sources;
• Inspect each email you receive very carefully and never open suspicious attachments unless you are 100% sure they’re safe;
• Create data backups regularly and install latest software and OS updates on your PC.

Easy way to remove LOKD ransomware virus for good

The easiest way to remove LOKD ransomware virus is to reboot your PC in a Safe Mode and run a trustworthy malware removal tool. You can find a step-by-step guide down below. Do not forget to change your passwords for websites saved in your web browser, as the aforementioned Azorult malware installed alongside the ransomware steals and transmits them to cybercriminals.

LOKD virus removal isn’t hard – you just have to be attentive to the information listed below. You can open these instructions via your phone or another computer to begin the computer cleanse procedure.

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:

GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

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.

Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.