How to remove Data Ransomware and decrypt .data3 files

What is Data Ransomware

Data Ransomware is a dangerous encryption malware discovered during routine analysis of malware samples uploaded to VirusTotal. It belongs to the Proton ransomware family and is designed to encrypt files on an infected computer. Victims will notice that their files are inaccessible and appended with an email address and a distinctive extension, .data3, indicating they have been encrypted. This ransomware changes the desktop wallpaper and creates a ransom note named #Read-for-recovery.txt, instructing victims to contact the attackers via an email address provided within. The presence of this ransomware renders files unusable unless a specific decryption key is applied, which is held by the cybercriminals behind the attack. Unfortunately, paying the ransom does not guarantee file recovery, as attackers may not provide the decryption tools after payment.

Currently, there are no known decryption tools publicly available to decrypt files affected by this ransomware. Attempts to decrypt .data3 files without the necessary decryption key are futile due to the sophisticated encryption algorithms employed by the ransomware. Victims are advised to report the incident to appropriate authorities and explore options provided by the cybersecurity community, such as the No More Ransom project, to check for any new developments regarding decryption. Maintaining regular backups is the most effective strategy to mitigate the impact of such an attack, allowing users to restore data from an uninfected backup source. It is critical to focus on prevention measures to avoid falling victim to ransomware, such as keeping systems updated, avoiding suspicious links or downloads, and using reputable security software to protect systems proactively.

How Data Ransomware infects computers

Data Ransomware, like many modern ransomware threats, often infiltrates computers through deceptive tactics. One common method involves distributing the malware via phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links, which, when opened, download the ransomware onto the system. Cybercriminals also exploit vulnerabilities in software or operating systems, allowing them to install the ransomware without user intervention. Additionally, the malware can be concealed within pirated software or fake updates, enticing users to unwittingly download the malicious code. Peer-to-peer networks and compromised websites serve as other vectors for spreading Data Ransomware, often leveraging malicious advertisements to trick users into initiating downloads. Once inside a system, the ransomware encrypts files, demanding a ransom for their decryption, and can propagate through connected networks and devices, further amplifying its reach.

1. Download Data Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .data3 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 Data Ransomware

Data Ransomware files:


#Read-for-recovery.txt
{randomname}.exe


Data Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .data3 files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .data3 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 .data3 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 Data 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 .data3 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 Data 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. Data 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