How to remove Lynx Ransomware and decrypt .LYNX files

What is Lynx Ransomware

Lynx Ransomware is a notorious piece of malicious software classified as ransomware, designed to encrypt victims’ files and demand a ransom for their decryption. Upon infection, it targets various file types, appending a unique .LYNX extension to the encrypted files, making them inaccessible to the victim without the decryption key. This ransomware employs advanced encryption algorithms, ensuring that restoring files without the attackers’ assistance is nearly impossible. Alongside the file encryption process, Lynx creates a ransom note, typically named README.txt, which is dropped on the victim’s desktop and includes instructions on how to contact the cybercriminals. The note starkly outlines the situation, emphasizing that the victim’s files are encrypted and warning of the alleged theft of sensitive data, further pressuring victims to comply with the ransom demands. Victims are usually directed to a Tor website where they can negotiate payment.

Currently, there are no known free decryption tools available for Lynx Ransomware, leaving affected users with limited options for file recovery. Paying the ransom poses significant risks, as there is no guarantee that the cybercriminals will provide the promised decryption keys once payment has been made. Consequently, victims are encouraged to explore data recovery tools and restore from backups if available, which underscores the importance of regular data backups to mitigate the effects of ransomware attacks. Using data recovery software can sometimes help restore lost files, but the success often varies depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the encryption. While victims may search for decryption options, caution is advised to avoid falling for scams that claim to decrypt .LYNX files, as most third-party services tend to be illegitimate and may further compromise security. Ultimately, maintaining strong cybersecurity practices, such as regular updates and vigilant online behavior, is essential to prevent such infections.

How Lynx Ransomware infects computers

Lynx Ransomware typically infects computers through various distribution methods that exploit user vulnerabilities. Common vectors include phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links, where unsuspecting users may inadvertently execute the ransomware by opening these files. Additionally, Lynx can be distributed via drive-by downloads from compromised websites or through dubious download sources, such as torrents and unverified software repositories. The ransomware may also leverage social engineering tactics to trick users into downloading fake software updates or using illegal product activation tools. Once executed, Lynx encrypts files on the infected system, demanding a ransom for their recovery, underscoring the importance of vigilance and robust cybersecurity practices. To mitigate the risk of infection, users should maintain updated antivirus software, exercise caution with email attachments, and only download software from reputable sources.

1. Download Lynx Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .LYNX 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 Lynx Ransomware

Lynx Ransomware files:


README.txt
{randomname}.exe


Lynx Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .LYNX files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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