How to remove Innok Ransomware and decrypt .innok files

What is Innok Ransomware

Innok Ransomware is a malicious software that encrypts files on the victim’s computer, appending a specific extension to the affected files to signify that they are under ransomware control. This ransomware is part of a broader category known as cryptoviruses, which are designed to render files inaccessible without proper decryption. When Innok Ransomware infiltrates a system, it appends the .innok extension to each encrypted file. For example, a file named picture.jpg becomes picture.jpg.innok after encryption, making it unusable without a decryption key. The ransomware typically employs robust encryption algorithms, often making use of either symmetric or asymmetric cryptography to lock the data securely and prevent victims from accessing their files without the decryption software or key. Upon completion of the encryption process, the ransomware alters the desktop wallpaper, replacing it with a ransom note titled innok_Help.txt, which explains the encryption situation and demands a ransom for decrypting the files. This note can be found on the desktop and is also shown on an overlay screen that appears before user account sign-in.

Despite the imposing command to pay the ransom, it is highly advised against doing so because payment does not guarantee file recovery; the attackers may simply take the money and provide no solution. Presently, there are no known public decryption tools available for Innok Ransomware due to the strong encryption methods it employs. Decrypting files with the .innok extension requires a specific decryption key, which is typically only controlled by the cyber criminals responsible for the attack. In cases with similar ransomware strains, if there are significant security flaws or known errors in the encryption process, security researchers might develop a decryption tool. However, for Innok Ransomware, no such solutions have been released as of now, indicating that its encryption is solid or under-analyzed. If the ransomware has compromised your files, the best course of action is to remove the malware with a reliable antivirus, then back up any remaining data safely. Data recovery may be possible from pre-existing backups stored externally, or with professional data recovery services, albeit without certainty of success for encrypted files.

How Innok Ransomware infects computers

Innok Ransomware predominantly infiltrates computers through deceptive methods like phishing emails, malicious attachments, or compromised links. Cybercriminals craft emails that appear legitimate, often impersonating reputable organizations or individuals, and include attachments or links that, when opened, execute the ransomware payload. This malware can also spread through drive-by downloads, where visiting an infected website automatically downloads the ransomware onto the user’s device without their knowledge. Peer-to-peer networks and free file-hosting sites are additional vectors, as they often distribute cracked software or fake updates that contain the ransomware. Once executed, Innok encrypts files and displays a ransom note demanding payment for decryption, exploiting victims’ desire to regain access to their data. To minimize the risk of infection, users should exercise caution with unsolicited emails and downloads, keep their software updated, and employ robust security solutions.

1. Download Innok Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .innok 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 Innok Ransomware

Innok Ransomware files:


innok_Help.txt
{randomname}.exe


Innok Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .innok files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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