How to remove R2Cheats Ransomware and decrypt _R2Cheats files

What is R2Cheats Ransomware

R2Cheats Ransomware is a dangerous type of malicious software specifically designed to encrypt victims’ files and demand a ransom payment to restore access. When it infects a computer, it appends the _R2Cheats extension to each affected file, rendering it unusable without the appropriate decryption key. For instance, a file named document.jpg would be altered to document.jpg_R2Cheats. This mechanism effectively locks users out of their own data, exerting psychological pressure to comply with the attacker’s demands. The ransomware uses robust encryption algorithms, although details on the specific methods employed remain unclear, ensuring that unauthorized decryption is nearly impossible without the attacker’s tool. Victims are subsequently presented with a ransom note—typically titled ransom_note.txt—which is often found on the desktop or in affected directories. The note demands a payment, in this case, $150 in Roblox gift cards, to be sent via specific communication channels such as an email address or Discord handle.

Unfortunately, there are no known decryption tools available for files encrypted by R2Cheats Ransomware, making data recovery without paying the ransom incredibly challenging. Cybersecurity experts strongly advise against succumbing to the payment demands, as there is no guarantee the criminals will provide the decryption keys even after the ransom is paid. Instead, removing the ransomware from the device is crucial to prevent any further damage or encryption of additional files. Although retrieval of the locked files is uncertain, users may attempt to restore lost data using backup solutions if they were previously set up. Third-party data recovery tools might offer limited success depending on the situation, but they should be used with caution to avoid potential file system damage. Always ensure robust security measures are in place, such as maintaining updated antivirus software and regular backups, to protect against future ransomware incidents.

How R2Cheats Ransomware infects computers

R2Cheats Ransomware infiltrates computers through various deceptive and malicious tactics, exploiting user vulnerabilities and common cybersecurity lapses. Often, it is distributed via phishing emails containing harmful attachments or links, which, once clicked, download the ransomware onto the system. Cybercriminals also employ malicious advertisements and compromised websites that trigger automatic downloads, exploiting software vulnerabilities in outdated systems. The ransomware might also be embedded in pirated software, illegal cracking tools, or fake software updates, luring unsuspecting users into executing the malicious code. Additionally, peer-to-peer networks and infected USB drives serve as conduits for spreading R2Cheats, highlighting the importance of cautious online behavior and regular software updates. Once inside a system, R2Cheats encrypts files and demands ransom, leveraging fear tactics to pressure victims into compliance.

1. Download R2Cheats Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for _R2Cheats 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 R2Cheats Ransomware

R2Cheats Ransomware files:


ransom_note.txt
{randomname}.exe


R2Cheats Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore _R2Cheats files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt _R2Cheats 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 _R2Cheats 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 R2Cheats 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 _R2Cheats 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 R2Cheats 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. R2Cheats 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