How to remove Synapse Ransomware and decrypt .Synapse files

What is Synapse Ransomware

Synapse Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts data on infected computers, demanding payment for decryption. It was first discovered in February 2024 and operates as a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), indicating a structured distribution model where affiliates deploy the ransomware while the developers receive a share of the ransom payments. Once Synapse ransomware infects a computer, it encrypts files using robust cryptographic algorithms including RSA-4096, AES-256, and ChaCha20. This encryption is virtually unbreakable without the decryption key held by the attackers. The ransomware appends a .Synapse extension to the encrypted files, altering their original names to a random character string, which makes them easily recognizable. After encrypting the files, Synapse ransomware drops a ransom note named [random_string].README.txt on the victim’s desktop. This note explains that the files have been encrypted and provides instructions for payment, typically demanding payment in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. The note may also offer to decrypt one file for free as proof that the attackers can restore the files.

As of the latest updates, there are no free decryption tools available that can decrypt files affected by Synapse Ransomware. This is due to the strong encryption algorithms used, which do not currently have vulnerabilities that would allow third parties to break the encryption without the specific decryption key. Given the lack of a reliable decryption tool, the recommended approach for recovery is to restore the affected files from backups. Victims should first remove the ransomware from their computer using a reputable malware removal tool to prevent further encryption. Following this, files can be restored from backups that were not connected to the network at the time of infection.

Synapse Ransomware (ransom note)

Synapse Ransomware (wallpaper)

How Synapse Ransomware infects computers

Synapse Ransomware primarily infects computers through various vectors:

Phishing Emails: These emails contain malicious attachments or links that, when opened, execute the ransomware.
Exploit Kits: These are tools that exploit vulnerabilities in software on the victim’s computer to install ransomware.
Malicious Advertisements: Also known as “malvertising,” this method involves embedding malware in online advertisements.
Pirated Software: Downloading and installing pirated software can also lead to ransomware infections, as these often contain malicious additions.

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

Synapse Ransomware files:


[random_string].README.txt
{randomname}.exe


Synapse Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .Synapse files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .Synapse files. Download it here:

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 .Synapse 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 Synapse 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 .Synapse 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.

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 Synapse Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Dashboard

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Alert

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Blocked

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.

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. Synapse 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.