How to remove DragonForce Ransomware and decrypt .dragonforce_encrypted files

What is DragonForce Ransomware

DragonForce Ransomware is a sophisticated type of malware designed to encrypt files on a victim’s computer, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. This ransomware first surfaced in early 2024 and was identified through malware samples on VirusTotal. Upon execution, DragonForce encrypts files and renames them by appending the extension .dragonforce_encrypted. An example of this would be renaming document.pdf to random_string.dragonforce_encrypted. The encryption methodology employs strong algorithms, making decryption challenging without the specific decryption key. These keys are usually stored remotely by the attackers to prevent victims from easily retrieving them. Alongside the encrypted files, DragonForce also generates a ransom note named readme.txt, typically placed in each affected directory and on the victim’s desktop.

The ransom note instructs victims to contact the attackers through a Tor website and provides details on how to communicate using a unique ID. The note warns against resetting or shutting down the system, renaming or moving files, and deleting the ransom note to avoid further data damage. Unfortunately, as of now, there are no publicly available decryption tools to unlock files encrypted by DragonForce ransomware. Experts strongly advise against paying the ransom, as it does not guarantee that the attackers will provide the necessary decryption tool. Instead, victims are encouraged to remove the ransomware using reliable antivirus software and seek alternative methods like restoring from backups or employing data recovery services to recover their files.

How DragonForce Ransomware infects computers

DragonForce Ransomware primarily infects computers through various deceptive tactics employed by cybercriminals. One common method involves distributing malicious email attachments or links, often disguised as legitimate communications or documents. Once the user interacts with these attachments or links, the ransomware is executed, leading to the encryption of files. Additionally, the malware can infiltrate systems via pirated software, cracking tools, or key generators, which are frequently downloaded from untrustworthy sources. Exploiting software vulnerabilities is another avenue, where outdated or unpatched software provides an entry point for the ransomware. Furthermore, DragonForce can spread through infected USB drives, malicious advertisements, or compromised websites, making it crucial for users to maintain vigilant cybersecurity practices.

1. Download DragonForce Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .dragonforce_encrypted 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 DragonForce Ransomware

DragonForce Ransomware files:


readme.txt
{randomname}.exe


DragonForce Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .dragonforce_encrypted files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .dragonforce_encrypted 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 .dragonforce_encrypted 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 DragonForce 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 .dragonforce_encrypted 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 DragonForce 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. DragonForce 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