How to remove SMOK Ransomware and decrypt .SMOK files

What is SMOK Ransomware

SMOK Ransomware is a malign program categorized under ransomware, designed to encrypt files, making them inaccessible to victims unless a ransom payment is made. This malware operates by appending unique identifiers, email addresses, and distinct extensions to the affected files. Among the extensions added by SMOK Ransomware are .SMOK, .ciphx, .MEHRO, .SMOCK, and .CipherTrail. The ransomware exploits advanced cryptographic algorithms, typically employing a combination of symmetric or asymmetric encryption methods, which underscore its complexity and the challenge in reversing the encryption without a proper decryption key. Upon completing the encryption process, the ransomware generates a ransom note, prompting victims to contact the perpetrators and warning against the use of third-party decryption tools, as they might lead to permanent data loss. This note is typically presented in a pop-up window and a text file named ReadMe.txt, notifying users of the encryption and detailing payment instructions.

Unfortunately, there are currently no decryption tools publicly available for SMOK Ransomware, as the decryption would require access to the private keys held exclusively by the cybercriminals behind the attack. Thus, while removing the ransomware from infected systems can prevent further damage, it does not automatically restore encrypted files. To decrypt files affected by SMOK, victims usually face the decision of either paying the ransom (not recommended, due to the risk of non-compliance by the criminals) or restoring files from a reliable backup created prior to the infection. Security researchers emphasize that regular backups and adherence to robust security measures are crucial in safeguarding against data loss from ransomware attacks. In the absence of a decryption tool or backup, victims are advised to report the attack to authorities and seek professional assistance to mitigate future risks and explore any emergent recovery options.

How SMOK Ransomware infects computers

SMOK Ransomware typically infiltrates computers through deceptive methods that manipulate users into executing malicious files. One common vector is phishing emails, which may contain infected attachments or links that, when opened, download the ransomware onto the system. These emails are often crafted to appear legitimate, tricking users into believing they are from trusted sources. Additionally, SMOK Ransomware can spread through exploit kits on compromised websites that silently download the malware onto vulnerable systems during drive-by attacks. Users who download software from unofficial or peer-to-peer networks are also at risk, as these platforms may bundle legitimate-looking applications with malicious payloads. Once executed, SMOK swiftly encrypts files on the infected device, appending extensions like .SMOK or .ciphx, and demands a ransom for decryption, leaving users in a precarious position.

1. Download SMOK Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .SMOK 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 SMOK Ransomware

SMOK Ransomware files:


ReadMe.txt
{randomname}.exe


SMOK Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .SMOK files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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