Geek's Advice

LOKF ransomware converts files useless using RSA

LOKF ransomware virus is one of the latest STOP/DJVU variants. It is a file-encrypting malicious program that is set to target specific file types on a computer and encrypt them using the RSA cryptography algorithm. The virus uses either offline or online keys to corrupt files, adds .lokf file extensions to their original names, creates notes called _readme.txt, in which demands to pay a ransom of $490-$980 in Bitcoins. To learn how, the victim is advised to contact the attackers via provided emails – salesrestoresoftware@firemail.cc or salesrestoresoftware@gmail.com.

It is a well-known fact that LOKF ransomware infects computers and computer networks if the victim downloads and opens a malicious software crack or keygen. Once installed, the virus disables active firewalls, deletes volume shadow copies (to prevent data recovery), installs Azorult Trojan on the system and creates dozens of other problems on the system.

The biggest issue is that it encrypts files using the RSA algorithm, and the victim might not notice anything until the malware finishes its job. The only thing that might be noticeable is a slight computer slowdown.

During data encryption, the virus appends .lokf file extensions to mark locked data. It has to be mentioned that the ransomware might skip some files based on their file size or data extension. It typically also ignores system files that are required for the operating system to function.

Threat Summary

Once encrypted, .lokf file extension files are unavailable to the victim and they cannot be opened in any way. This is done to make victims lose important data, such as years of work or precious family memories. However, there is NO WAY to restore these files no matter what your personal ID is. You can only check if it is offline or online and use it as guidance whether you can hope to restore some data in the future or not.

Once all files are encoded, the virus saves a specific text into a ransom note called _readme.txt. The malicious program is developed to save this file in each folder that has some encrypted files on it. The ransom note suggests contacting the cybercriminals via provided emails and pay a ransom of $490 (if paid within 72 hours) or $980 if later. The ransom has to be paid in Bitcoin for cybercriminals’ privacy. They even suggest sending one file for decryption to prove that their decryption tools work for .lokf extension.

We do not recommend paying the ransom. However, if you do, you can contact Michael Gillespie, a genius security researcher, and provide him with information so that he could use it for further malware analysis. In the meantime, all victims of this ransomware should remove LOKF virus as soon as possible with an up-to-date antivirus tool using instructions given at the end of this article.

Data decryption is nearly impossible

LOKF ransomware is the 181th version of the virus, which is currently undecryptable even using the STOP Decrypter. However, you should first check whether your files were encrypted with online or offline key. If an offline key was used, you have hope to recover files in the future. You need to wait until the security experts will crack the key. It is unknown how long that can take, so please backup encrypted data and stay patient.

In some cases, miracles happen, so you can also backup your encrypted data (online key). There were cases when cyber criminals were arrested, their keys seized, or they just published them randomly. Of course, DJVU developers know what they’re doing, so the chances of recovering data are very, very low.

Distribution operates via software crack and keygen downloads

LOKF ransomware virus is essentially similar to MOSK, DERP, COOT, and other DJVU variants. All of them are distributed via illegal downloads that victims decide to opt for. The developers of the ransomware tend to pack the malicious payload into popular illegal downloads used to activate software licenses for free.

Keep in mind that you should never download such files. They are very easy bait for victims as you can see the DJVU success worldwide. Once opened, such files run the ransomware which then starts encrypting all files on the computer.

However, you should not forget other ransomware distribution tricks, such as outdated software, malicious email attachments, shady third-party websites and other means. Always think before you click on something online and triple-check the reliability of websites you’re exploring if you do not want to end up with malware on your computer.

Remove LOKF virus and recover files encrypted by the ransomware

Remove LOKF ransomware virus by booting your PC in Safe Mode with Networking, update your antivirus and run a thorough system scan right after. This will identify Azorult along with ransomware and delete their files, registry keys and other remains from the system. Once the system is clean, you’ll can use your computer safely again. Of course, do not forget to change all your passwords, especially the ones you had saved in your browser’s memory.

After LOKF ransomware removal, try to find your data backups and restore files from them. Keep in mind that if you do not clean your computer properly first, the ransomware might encrypt files on external devices you plug into the infected machine.

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:

STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS

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Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7.. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs.

Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.

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STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

DOWNLOAD RESTORO

RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically.

RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

Read full review here.

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

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System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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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.

Norbert Webb

Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.