How to remove Terminator Ransomware and decrypt .terminator files

What is Terminator Ransomware

Terminator Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed specifically to encrypt data on the victim’s computer and subsequently demand a ransom for decryption. Upon infecting a system, it renames encrypted files by appending the string .terminator to the file names, along with the attacker’s email address. For instance, a file named 1.jpg would be renamed to 1.jpg.decryptboss@gmail.com.terminator. This ransomware utilizes advanced cryptographic algorithms that make manual decryption almost impossible without the correct decryption key, which is only provided by the cybercriminals. After the encryption process is complete, a ransom note titled —-Read-Me—–.txt is dropped into various folders containing the encrypted data. This note contains instructions on how to contact the attackers and the payment requirements for the decryption key.

Current research into Terminator Ransomware has shown that there are no publicly available decryption tools due to the sophistication of the encryption algorithms used. Victims are therefore advised not to pay the ransom, as compliance does not guarantee data recovery and only incentivizes the criminals to continue their malicious activities. Unfortunately, decrypting files with the .terminator extension without the cybercriminals’ private decryption key is not feasible with current technology. Therefore, the best course of action after removing the ransomware is to restore data from backups, if available. Employing preventative measures like regular backups, using reliable antivirus software, and exercising caution with email attachments and downloads, are crucial steps to protecting against such threats.

How Terminator Ransomware infects computers

Terminator Ransomware typically infiltrates computers through a combination of phishing and social engineering tactics. Often, malicious emails are crafted to appear as legitimate communications, enticing recipients to open infected attachments or click on deceptive links. These attachments and links may contain various file formats like executables, archives, or even documents with embedded macros. Once executed, the malware initiates the download and installation chain, discreetly embedding itself into the system. Additionally, Terminator Ransomware can spread via compromised websites, malicious ads, and bundled software from untrustworthy sources. Some versions even have the capability to propagate through local networks and removable storage devices, further amplifying their reach and impact.

1. Download Terminator Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .terminator 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 Terminator Ransomware

Terminator Ransomware files:


----Read-Me-----.txt
{randomname}.exe


Terminator Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .terminator files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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