How to remove Hyena Ransomware and decrypt .hyena111 files

What is Hyena Ransomware

Hyena Ransomware is a pernicious form of malware that encrypts files on a victim’s computer, rendering them inaccessible, and subsequently demands a ransom for their release. As part of the MedusaLocker family, this ransomware appends the .hyena111 extension to each affected file, making it unrecognizable to the system and unusable by the user. The attackers leverage advanced encryption methods, specifically RSA and AES algorithms, to secure the files in a way that prevents decryption without their unique decryption key. During the attack, READ_NOTE.html, a ransom note file, is deposited onto the compromised system. This file, often prominently displayed or found in multiple directories, informs victims of the breach, threatening to release, sell, or permanently lock data unless payment is received. In the note, victims are instructed not to use third-party software for file recovery, warning that attempts could result in data corruption.

Unfortunately, no free decryption tools currently exist for Hyena Ransomware, leaving victims with limited options for file recovery. The complexity of the RSA and AES encryption used makes it virtually impossible to decrypt the files without the attacker’s decryption key. Paying the ransom, a method discouraged by security experts, poses a significant risk as it does not guarantee the retrieval of data and could further embolden cybercriminals. Instead, victims are advised to remove the ransomware from their systems to prevent further damage. This removal can be achieved with the use of sophisticated antivirus software such as Combo Cleaner, though it will not decrypt existing files. An effective strategy for victims is to report such incidents to cybersecurity authorities and maintain regular, secure backups using external devices or cloud storage to mitigate future losses.

How Hyena Ransomware infects computers

Hyena Ransomware, a variant of the MedusaLocker family, typically infiltrates computers through various deceptive avenues commonly exploited by cybercriminals. One prevalent method involves malicious email attachments or links, which often appear to be legitimate communications but actually contain hidden ransomware payloads. Users may unknowingly execute the ransomware by interacting with these fraudulent emails. Additionally, compromised websites and malicious advertisements can serve as vectors, redirecting unsuspecting users to sites that host the malware. Peer-to-peer networks, pirated software, and unauthorized download sources are also significant risk factors, offering cybercriminals opportunities to embed ransomware within seemingly harmless software packages. Furthermore, unpatched software vulnerabilities are frequently targeted by attackers, allowing them to deploy ransomware onto systems without direct user interaction.

1. Download Hyena Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .hyena111 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 Hyena Ransomware

Hyena Ransomware files:


READ_NOTE.html
{randomname}.exe


Hyena Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .hyena111 files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .hyena111 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 .hyena111 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 Hyena 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 .hyena111 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 Hyena 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. Hyena 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