How to remove Hawk Ransomware and decrypt .hawk files

What is Hawk Ransomware

Hawk Ransomware is an aggressive form of malicious software designed to encrypt victims’ files, rendering them inaccessible. This ransomware appends the .hawk extension to the encrypted files, which is a key indicator of its presence. On infection, it generates a ransom note titled #Recover-Files.txt, usually placed in directories containing encrypted files. The ransomware employs sophisticated encryption algorithms, which are often a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption methods, making it nearly impossible to decrypt files without the attackers’ involvement. Victims are instructed to contact the attackers via email to negotiate the decryption of their files, with a warning that the ransom amount will double if they do not respond within a specified timeframe. Unfortunately, as with many modern ransomware variants, there are currently no publicly available decryption tools that can reliably reverse Hawk ransomware’s encryption without involving the cybercriminals.

Decrypting the .hawk files without a backup or a decryption key from the attackers remains a significant challenge. Victims are often urged to refrain from paying the ransom as it does not guarantee data recovery and may further incentivize the criminal activities. Instead, it is recommended to consult resources such as the No More Ransom Project for any available updates on decryption tools, even though none exist at the time. Continuing safe practices like maintaining updated backups stored in secure, offline locations can mitigate the damage of ransomware attacks. If a system is infected, isolating the machine and using reliable anti-malware programs can help deactivate the infection and prevent further spread. Though frustrating, patience is crucial, as decryptor tools are occasionally developed over time through continuous cybersecurity efforts.

How Hawk Ransomware infects computers

Hawk Ransomware infiltrates computers through multiple deceptive methods, primarily exploiting human error and software vulnerabilities. One common vector is phishing emails, where attackers disguise malicious attachments or links as legitimate communications, enticing users to click and inadvertently download the ransomware. Additionally, Hawk Ransomware is often hidden within pirated software, including cracking tools and key generators, which users download from unreliable sources. Cybercriminals also employ malicious ads and compromised websites to initiate drive-by downloads when users visit these sites. Furthermore, attackers may exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software and operating systems, allowing the ransomware to silently install itself without user interaction. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial for users to maintain updated software, exercise caution with email attachments, avoid pirated content, and employ reliable security solutions.

1. Download Hawk Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .hawk 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 Hawk Ransomware

Hawk Ransomware files:


#Recover-Files.txt
{randomname}.exe


Hawk Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .hawk files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .hawk 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 .hawk 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 Hawk 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 .hawk 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 Hawk 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. Hawk 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