How to remove 888 Ransomware and decrypt .888 files

What is 888 Ransomware

888 Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts personal files on a victim’s computer, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. This ransomware attaches the .888 extension to the filenames of encrypted files, signifying that they have been compromised. For example, a file initially named document.docx will be changed to document.docx.888. The cryptographic algorithms leveraged by 888 Ransomware for file encryption are usually robust, typically involving a mixture of both symmetric and asymmetric encryption schemes, making it next to impossible to decrypt without a designated decryption key. Following the encryption process, victims find a ransom note labeled as !RESTORE_FILES!.txt, typically deposited within various folders where the encrypted files reside. This note warns victims not to modify the encrypted files or attempt third-party decryption methods and demands a ransom payment in exchange for decryption tools.

Regrettably, as of now, there are no known decryption tools available that can effectively restore files encrypted by 888 Ransomware without paying the ransom. While tools from initiatives like the No More Ransom Project aim to provide relief for victims, they are unable to accommodate all ransomware strains due to the constant evolution of these threats and the sophisticated encryption methods used. To decrypt files burdened with the .888 extension, it would necessitate the attacker’s interference by means of acquiring the correct decryption key. Experts sternly advise against paying the ransom, as it not only encourages criminal behavior but also does not guarantee the return of your data. Instead, victims should focus on removing the malware urgently, utilizing legitimate antivirus software to prevent further encryption and secure their systems. In lieu of an available decryption tool, restoring files from backups may be the most reliable option, if such backups exist.

How 888 Ransomware infects computers

888 Ransomware, like many ransomware variants, primarily infects computers through deceptive distribution methods. It often leverages phishing emails, where malicious attachments or links are disguised as legitimate content. Once a user opens these attachments or clicks on the links, the ransomware payload is executed, leading to the encryption of files. Additionally, 888 Ransomware can spread via malicious websites hosting drive-by downloads, where simply visiting an infected site can trigger an automatic download of the ransomware. The malware may also be bundled with software from unofficial download channels, such as torrent sites or third-party platforms. Users may inadvertently install the ransomware by running executables or opening documents that contain hidden scripts. By exploiting these common attack vectors, 888 Ransomware effectively infiltrates systems, making it crucial for users to remain vigilant and adopt robust cybersecurity practices.

1. Download 888 Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .888 files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like 888 Ransomware

888 Ransomware files:


!RESTORE_FILES!.txt
{randomname}.exe


888 Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .888 files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .888 files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .888 files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with 888 Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .888 files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like 888 Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. 888 Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro