Heimdal Security Blog

200+ Ransomware Decryption Tools to Help You Decrypt Your Files.

  • Gabriella Antal, Alina Georgiana Petcu, Ioana Rijnetu and Andra Zaharia

    • Ransomware is one of the most vicious cyber threats out there right now. A dangerous form of malware, it encrypts files and holds them hostage in exchange for payment. Luckily for you, there are plenty of ransomware decryption tools that you can use to get access to your files without needing to pay the ransom. 

    If your network gets infected with ransomware, follow the mitigation steps below and use this list with over 200 ransomware decryption tools.

    Steps to Recover Your Data:

    Step 1: Do not pay the ransom because there is no guarantee that the ransomware creators will give you access to your data.

    Step 2: Find any available backups you have, and consider keeping your data backups in secure, off-site locations.

    Step 3: If there are no backups, you have to try decrypting the data locked by ransomware using these ransomware decryptors.

    Navigate through these links to learn more.

    How to Identify Your Ransomware Infection

    There are a few ways to identify what type of ransomware you have been infected with to find the right ransomware decryption tool.

    The first way is to look at the extension of the encrypted files. This will usually be something like .locked, .encrypt, or. ransom. If you see one of these extensions, you will likely be infected with ransomware.

    Another way to identify the type of ransomware is to look at the ransom note. Again, this will give you a clue as to which type of ransomware you are dealing with.

    Oftentimes, the ransom note provides details about the type of ransomware your files have been encrypted with, but it can happen that you don’t have this information at hand.

    Readers have asked us to include a list of ransomware extensions and their associated malware families. Updates to this list are available on our blog page.

    If you find yourself looking for a ransomware decryption tool, two options could help you out:

    1. Crypto Sheriff from No More Ransom
    2. ID Ransomware from MalwareHunter Team

    How to Decrypt Encrypted Files without Paying the Ransom

    If you’re infected with ransomware, there are a few tips you can use to make sure you get back on track quickly. As soon as you detect a ransomware infection, you must act fast.

    First, note that only some tools can fix what every variant does. In addition, the tools are designed for a specific type of ransomware, so it’s up to you to identify what ransomware variant caused your infection. Once identified, the right tool will be able to decrypt your files.

    Second, before sterilizing and decrypting your system and files, make sure to remove the original file or the ransomware itself. Otherwise, the data will still be encrypted again once you finish the recovery process.

    Most decryptors can unlock a variety of ransomware, including WannaCry, Petya, NotPetya, TeslaCrypt, DarkSide, REvil, Alcatraz Locker, Apocalypse, BadBlock, Bart, BTCWare, EncrypTile, and Globe.

    Unfortunately, ransomware developers quickly push the latest updates and patches to make their malware harder to decrypt. This arms race is why most decryptors don’t come with guarantees because they have to update and adapt theirs.

    Below we’ll list some free ransomware decryption tools that will help you unlock your encrypted files.

    The Growing List of Ransomware Decryption Tools

    Disclaimer:

    There are currently many free ransomware decryption tools for some of the most common types. However, the list below is incomplete and will probably never be as more ransomware decryption tools emerge as we speak. So it would help if you documented research as well. Safely decrypting your data can be nerve-wracking, so try to be as thorough as possible.

    If you’ve got a suggestion for us or something’s missing from the list, we’ll be happy to hear from you. Just submit your requests, and we’ll get back to you with an answer as to whether or not it will be included in our blog post.

    Some of the ransomware decryption tools mentioned below are easy to use, while others require a bit more tech knowledge to decipher. If you don’t have technical skills, you can always ask for help on one of these malware removal forums, which feature tons of information and helpful communities.

    Below we’ll show you the top 10 ransomware decryption tools, each with a specific description:

    1. 777 ransomware decrypting tool

    If you find yourself in a situation where your files have been encrypted and renamed to *.777, don’t panic! We have the solution you need to regain control over your valuable data. The 777 decrypter tool is explicitly designed to tackle these encryption challenges head-on.

    This tool is meticulously crafted to unravel even the most complex encryption algorithms, providing you with a ray of hope to recover your cherished files. The process is straightforward, but selecting the appropriate version of the malware from the options tab is essential to ensure seamless functionality.

    2. 7even-HONE$T decrypting tool

    When 7ev3n-HONE$T encrypts your data, it will rename your files with the.R5A extension to consecutive numbers. For example, the files in a folder might be called 1.R5A, 2.R5A, 3.R5A, and so on. 7ev3n-HONE$T will add the encrypted file’s name to the C: UsersPublicfiles file.  

    Once your data has been encrypted, it will connect to the Command & Control server and upload a variety of facts and statistics. The data sent includes:

    Use this decrypter if your files have been encrypted and renamed *.777. For the decrypter to function effectively, it may be required to pick the correct malware version on the settings tab.

    3. 8lock8 ransomware decrypting tool + explanations

    A new ransomware variant based on HiddenTear has been discovered, encrypting files with AES-256 and appending “.8lock8” to encrypted files, for example, “file.jpg.8lock8.” The file “READ_IT.txt” is added to the desktop and the root of each accessed drive. Encrypting files requires traversing all drive letters. The good news is that this malware can be unlocked.

    To decrypt, first, obtain the key with my HiddenTear Bruteforcer. This requires a PNG file that has been encrypted (*.png.8lock8); the smaller the file, the better. Load the encrypted PNG file, then click the “EightLockEight” button at the bottom. Then, press the “Start Bruteforce” button.

    4. 7ev3n decrypting tool

    7ev3n ransomware infiltrates PCs through malicious e-mail attachments, peer-to-peer networks, and bogus software upgrades. Following system infection, 7ev3n encrypts computer files and appends the.r5a (or.r4a) extension to compromised files. A pop-up notification with encryption information is presented when files are successfully encrypted.

    A ransom is requested in exchange for a private key that can be used to decrypt the files. If the ransom is not paid within the specified time range, the private key is destroyed, and all data are permanently encrypted.

    7even-HONE$T ransomware decryptor restores the original file name
    retrieves R4A file content if feasible, recovers R5A file content (requires other settings, which are detailed further)

    For R5A, You must prepare additional parameters (A or B) depending on the variety that attacked you:

    A. The path to the directory where the file was placed when encrypted.
    B. A unique ID, as specified in your ransom note.

    5. AES_NI Rakhni decryptor tool

    Kaspersky Labs developed RakhniDecryptor, a general-purpose ransomware decryptor. Instead of creating a separate decryptor for each ransomware outbreak, they created a single decryptor that can handle a wide range of ransomware families. RakhniDecryptor can now decrypt the following ransomware families:

    BleepingComputer

    To decrypt files, first download RakhniDecryptor.zip and unzip the contents. 

    6. Alcatraz ransom decryptor tool

    Avast Ransomware Decryption Tools includes all 31 accessible Avast ransomware decryptors. The Alcatraz Locker ransomware, which employs AES 256 encryption and Base64 encoding, can be removed using Avast Decryption Tool for Alcatraz Locker.

    The “.Alcatraz” extension will be used for encrypted files.
    A similar notice occurs after encrypting your data (stored on the user’s desktop in the file “ransomed.html”). All decryptors can be found here.

    7. Alma ransomware decryption tool

    Alma Locker is a dangerous malware that encrypts files with AES-128 encryption. The name of each encrypted file is appended with six random characters by this virus (for example, “sample.jpg” may be renamed “sample.jpg.tqadgm”). As a result, determining whether files are encrypted is simple.

    Following successful encryption, Alma Locker creates two ransom-demand files titled “Unlock_files_(6 random characters).html” and “Unlock_files_(6 random characters).txt” and saves them to the desktop as well as each folder containing the encrypted files.

    Both files contain text informing victims about the highly similar encryption. Victims are given a private ID and many Tor network connections to download Alma Locker’s decryptor. These files also provide links to Alma Locker’s websites offering payment instructions.

    Here’s an example of a message asking users to contact the Alma Locker ransomware developers in order to decrypt their affected data:

    PCRisk

    Download your files/apps from reputable sources (official download websites) and use a direct download link – third-party download tools frequently include malicious applications. It is also critical to use a legitimate anti-virus/anti-spyware suite.

    Remember that cyber criminals frequently use software bugs/flaws to enter systems, so make sure your installed apps are up to date. We also strongly advise you to keep regular backups of your data. Caution is the cornerstone of computer security.

    8. Al-Namrood decrypting tool

    Al-Namrood is a variant of the Apocalypse ransomware. It is typically used to attack servers that have remote desktop services enabled.

    Encrypted files are renamed *.unavailable or *.disappeared, and a ransom letter with the name * is written for each file.Read_Me.Txt. The ransomware instructs the victim to contact “decryptioncompany@inbox.ru” or “fabianwosar@inbox.ru.”

    Here’s an example:

    Emisoft

    The decrypter requires your ID to decrypt your files. The ID can be changed under the “Options” tab. By default, the decrypter will set the ID to the system’s ID on which it is running. However, if it is not the same machine where the malware infection and encryption occurred, provide the ID specified in the ransom note.

    9. Amnesia ransom decryptor tool

    Amnesia is a ransomware tool built in Delphi that encrypts your files with the AES-256 encryption technique. Encrypted files are renamed *.amnesia, and a ransom note with the title “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT” instructs you to contact “s1an1er111@protonmail.com.” It is located on your desktop.

    The following text appears on the ransom note:

    Emisoft

    You will need an encrypted file and an unencrypted version to utilize the decryptor. Drag and drop the encrypted and unencrypted files into the decrypter executable to launch the decrypter.

    10. Anabelle ransom decryptor tool

    ANNABELLE is a ransomware-type malware found by Bart that infiltrates the system and encrypts most saved files. During encryption, this malware appends the “.ANNABELLE” extension to filenames (for example, “sample.jpg” becomes “sample.jpg.ANNABELLE”).

    Using files becomes difficult beyond this point. According to research findings, after successfully encrypting files, ANNABELLE undertakes a variety of duties to corrupt the system and, after rebooting, locks the entire screen.

    Here’s an example of ANNABELLE ransomware-encrypted files:

    PCRisk

    You can decrypt your files with the Bitdefender Anabelle decryptor program. We strongly advise you to also pick “Backup files” before beginning the decryption process, in case something goes wrong during decrypting. Then press the “Scan” button. Here’s a step-by-step guide for decrypting Anabelle ransomware.

    Ransomware Families Vs. Ransomware Decryption Tools

    As you may have noticed, some of these ransomware decryptors work for multiple ransomware families, while certain strains have more than one solution (although this is rarely the case).

    From a practical perspective, some decryptors are easy to use, but some require technical know-how. So as much as we’d want this process to be more straightforward, it doesn’t always happen.

    No matter how much work and time researchers put into reverse engineering cryptoware, the truth is that we’ll never have a solution to all of these infections. It would take an army of cybersecurity specialists working around the clock to get something like this done.

    Seven Best Ransomware Decryption Tools to Use

    So now that we have a thorough list of ransomware decryption tools, we’ve narrowed it down to seven of the finest. Each one of them will get an in-depth review of their features.

    1. No More Ransomware Project

    The software’s primary goal is to protect users against ransomware attacks. It has over 100 encryption keys, which serve as defense mechanisms, so it’s effective at detecting and eliminating the many different kinds of files that may be encrypted. 

    Experts from law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity companies have come together to eradicate ransomware. In fact, this project has become a valuable resource for anyone affected by ransomware.

    Key features: 

    2. Trend Micro Ransomware File Decryptor

    It’s a relatively new software designed to prevent malware from getting into your system. Additionally, the ransomware decryption tool can operate on systems that have been infected and assist you in successfully unlocking a file that Virus has locked.

    In addition, Trend Micro Ransom File Decryptor is an easy-to-use program that is light on data usage. Despite all this, Trend Micro has helped to win against ransomware in the past. Its decrypting tool will keep you safe and won’t impact your phone’s performance.

    Key features:

    3. Emsisoft Ransomware Decryption Tool

    It is widely considered to be among the best ransomware decryption programs that can be installed on Windows. A vital tool like this has never failed to restore access to files encrypted by major ransomware like Apocalypse, Xorist, Stampado, and BadBlock.

    Key features:

    4. McAfee Ransomware Recover

    McAfee Ransomware Recover is another excellent decryption tool that you can use to recover your encrypted files. Files, software, databases, and other files affected by ransomware can be retrieved with the help of McAfee Ransomware Recover. 

    In addition, regular updates are made available for the tool that contains additional decrypting keys so you can always have access to them.

    Key features:

    5. AVG Ransomware Decryption Tool

    AVG Ransomware Decryption Tools can be a good option for ransomware that encrypts files using different algorithms. On the other hand, it can only decode files encrypted by Apocalypse, Bart, Crypt888, Legion, or TeslaCrypt.

    Key features:

    6. 360 Ransomware

    You can remove ransomware from your PC without having to pay the ransom by using a tool developed by the folks at 360 Ransomware Decryption Tool. This was created to help people remove Petya; however, it can also retrieve the decryption key for other types of ransomware.

    Key features:

    7. Quick Heal – Free Ransomware Decryption Tool

    Once you authorize your computer to be scanned, Quickheal can eradicate the infection quickly and efficiently while keeping your documents safe as ransom.

    Quickheal has software that boots to scan for infected files and removes them before the Operating System kicks in. The software is supposed to be installed on a flash drive and then booted off. If it detects ransomware, Quickheal will remove it automatically.

    Key features:

    How to Avoid Ransomware in the Future

    One of the most efficient ways to prevent the threat of ransomware from wreaking havoc and locking your sensitive data is to remain vigilant and be proactive.

    In fact, we strongly recommend you to apply these basic and simple steps we outlined in the anti-ransomware security plan, that can help you prevent this type of cyber attack.

    Safely keeping copies of vital information offline and equipping your company with cyber-insurance should be included in your enterprise’s cybersecurity strategy. Even if cybercriminals get access to your computers and infect them with ransomware, you can wipe the system clean and restore your latest backup. Of course, this won’t solve the double extortion ransomware situation but at least you can restore your systems to a working state. So, please, do not postpone the process of doing a secure backup of your data.

    As new types of ransomware emerge, researchers decrypt some strains, but others get new variants, and it may look like a cat and mouse game, in which proactivity is vital. Paying the ransom never guarantees you actually get your data back, as it might still end up for sale on the Dark Web.

    Therefore, prevention remains the best medicine as always.

    How Heimdal can Protect your Business from Ransomware

    Heimdal offers a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity products that cover various aspects of cyber protection, such as endpoint security, network security, email security, access management, patch management, threat hunting, and more. A flexible and comprehensive method for modern cybersecurity that can work as independent modules to improve and fortify your current security configuration or combined in an XDR platform.

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    Check out our YouTube video series that delves deep into ransomware fundamentals, providing invaluable insights into the inner workings of these malicious threats and covering everything from prevention strategies to understanding encryption algorithms.

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