How to remove Helldown Ransomware and decrypt your files

What is Helldown Ransomware

Helldown Ransomware is a notorious type of malware that fundamentally compromises systems by encrypting valuable user data, demanding ransom payments for decryption. This ransomware was identified through samples analyzed on the VirusTotal platform, and it exhibits a potent ability to append a distinctive random extension to encrypted files, altering their original designation. For instance, a file previously named 1.jpg might be transformed to 1.jpg.rQpf. The encryption scheme that Helldown utilizes is both advanced and robust, effectively locking victims out of their own data and requiring specific decryption keys to restore access. Once it successfully infiltrates a system, Helldown creates a ransom note, titled Readme.[random_string].txt, within the affected directories. This note warns the victim of the compromise, stating that vital data has been leaked and encrypted, and prompts them to reach out via a provided email for further instructions involving ransom payment in cryptocurrency. Notably, it is emphasized that paying the ransom does not guarantee the restoration of files, as threat actors may not honor such payments.

Decryption tools for Helldown Ransomware are, unfortunately, not readily available, primarily due to the sophisticated encryption algorithms in use. The absence of publicly accessible decryption tools means victims are in a challenging position regarding recovery options without cooperating with the attackers. However, the safety of such cooperation is questionable, as it involves interacting with cybercriminals who may misuse financial transactions. In the event a computer falls victim to this ransomware, alternatives such as restoring from backups or employing third-party data recovery tools like Recuva could offer potential avenues for file recovery. It’s advisable for victims to not make any immediate payments but instead report the incident to relevant authorities, seek professional cybersecurity assistance, and explore any legitimate recovery options. Regularly backing up data is strongly recommended to mitigate the impact of such malicious attacks, providing users with a means to recover lost files without needing to decrypt them through unreliable methods.

How Helldown Ransomware infects computers

Helldown Ransomware primarily infects computers through deceptive tactics that exploit user vulnerabilities. This malicious software often arrives via phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links, which, when opened, execute the ransomware. Additionally, users may encounter Helldown through downloads from peer-to-peer networks, compromised websites, or misleading advertisements that trick them into downloading the malware unknowingly. The ransomware can also spread through software vulnerabilities, especially in outdated systems, allowing it to bypass security measures and encrypt files. Once executed, Helldown encrypts the victim’s files, appends a random extension to filenames, and leaves a ransom note demanding payment for file decryption. To mitigate the risk of infection, it is crucial to maintain updated software, exercise caution with email attachments and unknown links, and use reputable security software for regular system scans.

1. Download Helldown Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for 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 Helldown Ransomware

Helldown Ransomware files:


Readme.[random_string].txt
{randomname}.exe


Helldown Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore encrypted files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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

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 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 Helldown 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 encrypted files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose 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.

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose 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 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 Helldown Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Dashboard

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Alert

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Blocked

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.

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. Helldown 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.