How to remove NotLockBit Ransomware and decrypt .abcd files

What is NotLockBit Ransomware

NotLockBit Ransomware poses as a dangerous cyber threat masquerading as the popular LockBit ransomware. Targeting both Windows and Mac operating systems, it encrypts and exfiltrates essential data, rendering files inaccessible and making data recovery challenging. Once it infiltrates a system, it renames the files by appending a distinctive extension, which is .abcd, to the original filename. For instance, a file named document.pdf might be renamed to document.pdf.[random_string].abcd. This process obliterates the original identifiers of the files, making the victims painfully aware of the attack’s severity. Furthermore, NotLockBit employs a robust encryption algorithm to secure its hold over the files, making straightforward decryption a Herculean task without access to the correct keys. In addition to file encryption, the ransomware also alters the desktop wallpaper to further emphasize its malicious presence. Instructions for ransom payment and communication are conveyed through a ransom note, typically called README.txt, strategically placed in folders housing encrypted files and replacing the desktop wallpaper, gravely notifying users of their predicament.

The ransomware’s thrusts for financial gain, pushing victims toward cryptocurrency as the method of ransom payment. Unfortunately, as of now, there are no known free decryption tools specifically for NotLockBit Ransomware. This, regrettably, leaves many victims with limited options for file recovery. Victims seeking to decrypt .abcd files are typically advised not to pay the ransom, as doing so doesn’t guarantee the return of their data and only furthers the criminal agenda. Instead, those affected should report the incident to law enforcement to help track and potentially bring the perpetrators to justice. While exploring potential decryption avenues, it’s prudent to check online resources such as the No More Ransom Project for any updates or newly available tools that might help decrypt files. Using professional data recovery tools like Recuva might be another resourceful approach when attempting to restore any accessible backup files, provided the backups were not linked with the encrypted drive at the time of infection. Regularly back up data and maintain updated antivirus software to bolster defenses against such malicious threats.

How NotLockBit Ransomware infects computers

NotLockBit Ransomware infiltrates computers through a variety of deceptive and malicious tactics commonly employed by cybercriminals. It often spreads via phishing emails that contain infected attachments or links, enticing users to unknowingly download the ransomware. Additionally, attackers exploit software vulnerabilities, using malicious ads and compromised websites to deliver the ransomware payload. NotLockBit can also be distributed through peer-to-peer networks, free file hosting sites, and pirated software, posing a significant risk to unsuspecting users. Once on a system, the ransomware scans and encrypts files, appending the “.abcd” extension, and demands a ransom for decryption. To prevent infections, users should be cautious with emails from unknown sources, maintain updated security software, and avoid downloading from unreliable or suspicious websites.

1. Download NotLockBit Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .abcd 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 NotLockBit Ransomware

NotLockBit Ransomware files:


README.txt
{randomname}.exe


NotLockBit Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .abcd files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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