How to remove Locknet Ransomware and decrypt .locknet files

What is Locknet Ransomware

Locknet Ransomware is a type of malicious software that belongs to the MedusaLocker family. Its primary purpose is to encrypt files on a victim’s computer, making them inaccessible. The ransomware also renames files by adding the .locknet extension to filenames. For instance, it changes a file named 1.jpg to 1.jpg.locknet, 2.png to 2.png.locknet, and so forth. Locknet Ransomware uses a combination of RSA and AES encryption algorithms to encrypt the files on the infected computer. These encryption methods are robust and secure, making it extremely difficult to decrypt the files without the specific decryption key. After encrypting the files, Locknet Ransomware creates a ransom note named HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html. This note informs victims that their network has been breached and all important files have been encrypted. It warns against attempting to restore the files with third-party software, as this could permanently damage them. The attackers claim that only they can provide the decryption solution.

As of the current date, there are no free decryption tools available for Locknet Ransomware. The attackers claim that they are the only ones who can provide a decryption solution, and they typically demand a ransom in exchange for this. Given the robustness of the encryption used by Locknet Ransomware, decrypting .locknet files without the specific decryption key is extremely challenging. As mentioned earlier, no free decryption tools are currently available. Therefore, the best course of action is to prevent the infection in the first place by following the best cybersecurity practices. These include regularly updating software, avoiding suspicious emails and downloads, and maintaining regular backups of important files.

In case of an infection, it’s recommended to remove the ransomware from the system using a reliable anti-malware tool. After removal, if you have a recent backup of your files, you can restore them. If not, you may need to consider professional data recovery services. However, it’s essential to note that paying the ransom is not recommended, as it does not guarantee that the attackers will provide a working decryption key, and it encourages them to continue their malicious activities.

How Locknet Ransomware infected your computer

Locknet Ransomware can infect computers through various methods. One common method is through phishing emails, where the ransomware is hidden in an attachment or a link. When the recipient opens the attachment or clicks the link, the ransomware is downloaded and executed on their system. Another method is through malicious advertisements or third-party downloaders. Engaging with these deceptive ads or using these downloaders can result in the ransomware being installed on the user’s computer. Additionally, obtaining or utilizing counterfeit or illicit software can also lead to a Locknet Ransomware infection.

1. Download Locknet Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .locknet 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 Locknet Ransomware

Locknet Ransomware files:


HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html
{randomname}.exe


Locknet Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .locknet files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .locknet 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 .locknet 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 Locknet 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 .locknet 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.

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 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 is no items in the list choose 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 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 Locknet 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. Locknet 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