Do you know what Lokd Ransomware is?
The victims of Lokd Ransomware might think that it is a powerful and unique infection, but in reality, it is just another run-of-the-mill file encryptor that was created to bring you misery. The experts in our research team have tested the infection in our internal lab, and we have to warn that spam emails, bundled downloaders, and remote access vulnerabilities continue to be the most popular backdoors used by ransomware distributors. So, if you want to minimize your chances of attracting this kind of malware, you have to remove spam emails, avoid unfamiliar and suspicious downloaders, and also immediately install any updates that you might have skipped or postponed in the past. If you already need to delete Lokd Ransomware from your system, you need to remember these tips as well, but first, let’s eliminate the threat.
We had a lot of information about Lokd Ransomware before even looking into it deeper in our internal lab. That is because it is a clone of STOP Ransomware, Rezm Ransomware, Topi Ransomware, MOOL Ransomware, and a ton of other infections that were reported in the past. These threats always use the same stealthy execution methods, after which, they encrypt files almost immediately. When Lokd Ransomware encrypts them, the “.lokd” extension is added to the original file name (e.g., “file.doc” turns into “file.doc.lokd”). The change within the name is superficial, and you can easily rename any file, but you cannot change the data back to normal just as easily. In fact, doing that manually is not possible. Luckily, a tool called “STOP Decryptor” – which is named after the first infection in the family – has been introduced to the public, but whether or not it will be able to restore all encrypted files we cannot guarantee.
A file named “_readme.txt” is dropped by Lokd Ransomware, and as the name suggest, you need to read the message inside. The file is not malicious, and so opening it is not dangerous. The message inside, on the other hand, can be dangerous. It instructs to email helpdatarestore@firemail.cc or helpmanager@mail.ch and then pay a ransom of 490 USD in return for decryption software. As you already know, a free decryptor exists, but even if it did not exist, paying the ransom is not a good idea. The attackers are not interested in giving you anything. All they care about is taking away your money. If you have already contacted the attackers, note that your inbox is now a danger zone. The attackers could use other email accounts to send you misleading messages, and your email address could also be shared among cybercriminals, who could scam you in other ways. Hopefully, you have not taken this dangerous step yet. If you have, remain cautious.
Lokd Ransomware screenshot
Scroll down for full removal instructions
Clearly, you do not need to follow the demands of cybercriminals. In fact, doing that is incredibly dangerous. We are hopeful that the victims of Lokd Ransomware will be able to employ a free decryptor or use copies stored in secure locations (e.g., on external drives) to replace the corrupted photos, documents, and other personal files. This should be done after the removal of the threat. Can you remove Lokd Ransomware manually? Even if you can, it is best if you install a legitimate anti-malware tool to assist you. This tool will automatically erase malware files and, at the same time, strengthen the security of your system. If it was strong to begin with, you would not be dealing with the malicious ransomware right now.
How to delete Lokd Ransomware
- Delete all recently downloaded suspicious files.
- Tap Win and E keys on the keyboard to access File Explorer.
- Enter %HOMEDRIVE% into the quick access field at the top.
- Delete the ransom note file called _readme.txt.
- Delete a folder called SystemID (with PersonalID.txt inside).
- Enter %LOCALAPPDATA% into the quick access field.
- Delete the {random name} folder with ransomware files inside.
- Empty Recycle Bin and then quickly scan the system with a trusted malware scanner.
In non-techie terms:
Lokd Ransomware locks your files, but we hope that they are not locked forever. No, you do not need to pay a ransom requested by the attackers to obtain a free decryptor. In fact, if you do this, you will get nothing for your buck. What you need to do is find a free decryptor that was created by experts, and if that tool does not work, you can use backup copies of your personal files. Hopefully, you have these options. First, you must remove Lokd Ransomware, and if you have no idea how to achieve this goal, perhaps manual removal is not the ideal option. The good news is that anti-malware software is available to everyone. Install it now, and you will have malware removed and the operating system secured within minutes.