How to remove Frag Ransomware and decrypt .frag files

What is Frag Ransomware

Frag Ransomware is a sophisticated form of malicious software that infiltrates digital systems, primarily those of companies, and encrypts crucial data to extort a ransom payment from the victims. This ransomware appends the .frag file extension to the names of the encrypted files, effectively locking them and rendering them unusable without a decryption key. For instance, a document initially named report.docx would become report.docx.frag. Once the encryption process is complete, Frag Ransomware generates a ransom note in a text file strategically named README.txt, which is typically placed within the affected directories or even on the desktop. The note ominously informs the victim that their files have been encrypted and demands a ransom in exchange for a decryption key. Unfortunately, as of the latest advisories, there are no publicly available decryption tools specifically for Frag Ransomware, making file recovery without a backup a Herculean task.

Decrypting files affected by this ransomware is problematic due to the use of robust encryption algorithms, which vary but often involve both symmetric and asymmetric methods to complicate decryption efforts without the appropriate key. Typically, encryption algorithms like RSA or AES may be utilized, ensuring that only the attackers can feasibly decrypt the files once they receive their demanded ransom. However, paying the ransom is not recommended as it does not guarantee file recovery and also encourages further criminal activity. To decrypt .frag files, reliance on any breakthrough in cracking the specific encryption used or obtaining a universal decryptor should one be developed in the future is necessary. Meanwhile, victims should report the attack to relevant authorities and focus on isolating infected systems to prevent further damage. Regular data backups stored on unconnected media remain the most effective strategy in safeguarding against the devastating impact of such ransomware attacks.

How Frag Ransomware infects computers

Frag Ransomware is a sophisticated malware that primarily infiltrates computers through vulnerabilities in software and compromised applications. Notably, recent attacks have exploited a specific vulnerability, CVE-2024-40711, in the Veeam Backup & Replication software, which is commonly used by businesses for data management. Additionally, Frag Ransomware leverages compromised VPN applications to create unauthorized local administrator accounts, facilitating deeper network penetration. Social engineering tactics and phishing emails also play a significant role in its distribution, with malicious attachments or links disguised as legitimate communications. Once executed, the ransomware encrypts files, appending the “.frag” extension, and deletes accessible backups, leaving organizations with limited options for data recovery. To mitigate the risk of infection, it is crucial to maintain up-to-date software, employ robust network security measures, and educate employees on identifying potential phishing attempts.

1. Download Frag Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .frag 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 Frag Ransomware

Frag Ransomware files:


README.txt
{randomname}.exe


Frag Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .frag files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .frag 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 .frag 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 Frag 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 .frag 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 Frag 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. Frag 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