How to remove HUNTER Ransomware and decrypt .HUNTER files

What is HUNTER Ransomware

HUNTER Ransomware represents a formidable challenge in the cybersecurity landscape, characterized by its sophisticated encryption mechanisms and aggressive tactics to compromise system integrity. Originating from the Phobos family, HUNTER Ransomware encrypts files on the infected systems, appending a distinctive extension (e.g., .docx.locked) to the filenames, thereby rendering them inaccessible to the users. This article provides an in-depth analysis of HUNTER Ransomware, focusing on its infection vectors, encryption methodology, ransom note details, and the potential for decryption. Upon successful infiltration, HUNTER Ransomware initiates a file encryption process, targeting a wide array of file types to maximize impact. The ransomware appends a custom extension to the encrypted files, typically .HUNTER, signifying their inaccessible status. This encryption is designed to be robust, leveraging sophisticated algorithms to lock users out of their data effectively. Following encryption, HUNTER Ransomware generates ransom note on the victim’s desktop (info.hta and info.txt), detailing the demands for file decryption. Cybercriminals typically request payment in cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, exploiting the anonymity these platforms offer. The ransom note provides instructions on how to proceed with the payment, often including a deadline to pressure victims into complying. It’s crucial to note that paying the ransom does not guarantee file recovery and may further embolden the attackers.

HUNTER Ransomware employs advanced encryption techniques, making it challenging to decrypt the affected files without the necessary decryption keys held by the attackers. However, victims are advised to explore legitimate decryption tools before considering payment. The No More Ransom project is a collaborative initiative that offers free decryption tools for various ransomware strains. While specific tools for HUNTER Ransomware may not always be available, checking this resource can provide an alternative to succumbing to the attackers’ demands.

To safeguard against HUNTER Ransomware, individuals and organizations should implement robust cybersecurity practices. These include maintaining up-to-date software, employing strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, educating users on phishing tactics, and conducting regular backups of critical data. In the event of an infection, it’s essential to isolate the affected systems to prevent further spread and consult with cybersecurity professionals for potential recovery options.

How HUNTER Ransomware infects computers

HUNTER Ransomware exploits several avenues to infiltrate computer systems. One of its primary methods involves exploiting vulnerabilities in Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) services. Cybercriminals also deploy phishing and social engineering tactics, tricking users into executing the ransomware through infected email attachments, often disguised as legitimate documents with macros. Additional infection vectors include downloading pirated software, using infected USB drives, exploiting known vulnerabilities in operating systems or installed software, and navigating to compromised websites. Deceptive pop-ups and malicious advertisements on the internet further facilitate the spread of HUNTER Ransomware.

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

HUNTER Ransomware files:


info.hta
{randomname}.exe


HUNTER Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .HUNTER files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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