Do you know what Naampa Ransomware is?
When Naampa Ransomware slithers into the operating system, it encrypts various files found on it. These might include documents, media files, and photos. According to the research conducted by our analysts, the threat employs the RSA-2048 encryption algorithm to encrypt files, and since this algorithm is very complex, the decryption of the files becomes extremely complicated as well. The easiest way would be to apply a private/decryption key, but, unfortunately, only the creator of this malicious threat has it. It is believed that the infection comes from the same family as Unlock92 Ransomware and Unlckr Ransomware, but we cannot confirm or deny that all three of these infections were created by the same party. All in all, every single one of these threats must be deleted, and that is what we focus on in this report. If you are curious about the removal of Naampa Ransomware, please keep reading.
If Naampa Ransomware has invaded your operating system, you should find the “.crptd” extension added to all of their names. Fortunately, the infection does not rename files, which is something that certain threats can do. If you have noticed the extension, you should have also noticed the “!----README----!.jpg” file. This file is created by the ransomware, and you are likely to find copies of it in all folders that have encrypted files. This JPG file displays a text message that is represented in Russian, which indicates the target of the malicious threat. According to the message, you need to email unlckr@protonmail.com to have your files decrypted. There is also a warning suggesting that attempts to decrypt files manually would result in permanent damage. That is unlikely to be the case, but this is how Naampa Ransomware can push you into emailing them at the provided address.
If you communicate with the creator of Naampa Ransomware, there is no doubt that they will introduce you to a ransom. Should you pay it? You might consider this if the ransom is not too big and if your files are truly important, but our research team warns that paying a ransom is most likely a bad idea. Why? Because a decryption key is unlikely to be provided to you. If you are willing to take the risk, remember that we have warned you about it. Unfortunately, the decryption of your files might be impossible as there are no legitimate file decryptors that could assist you. What about backups? If your files are backed up, you will be able to replace the infected copies after you delete Naampa Ransomware. Needless to say, that is the best case scenario. If you end up losing your files, remember to start backing up your files to ensure that they are safe in the future.
Naampa Ransomware screenshot
Scroll down for full removal instructions
Although it is important to delete Naampa Ransomware from your operating system as soon as possible, you also need to think about further protection. You can take care of both of these issues by installing an anti-malware tool you trust. It will automatically erase the ransomware, and your operating system will be protected. This particular infection was found spreading via spam emails, and so you can avoid it in the future by being more cautious about spam emails. Nonetheless, other security backdoors are used for the infiltration of malware as well, and so you need well-rounded protection. That is something you must think about very carefully if you decide to remove the ransomware manually using the guide below.
Remove Naampa Ransomware
- Identify the launcher with a random name, right-click it, and select Delete (make sure it is a malicious ransomware file before eliminating it).
- Launch Windows Explorer by tapping Win+E keys.
- Right-click and Delete the files named key.res and !----README----!.jpg (the latter might have copies).
- Empty Recycle Bin and then run a full system scan.
In non-techie terms:
Naampa Ransomware is not a unique ransomware, but that does not make it any less dangerous. Once it encrypts your files, there is no turning back, and the chances are that your files will remain encrypted regardless of what you do. Unfortunately, if you pay a ransom, your files are likely to remain locked too. Even if you cannot do anything to recover your files, you have options when it comes to the removal of Naampa Ransomware. We suggest using anti-malware software because of the protection it can provide you with, but if you decide to get rid of this threat manually, you can also follow the instructions above. If you have any questions for our research team, do not hesitate to add them to the comments section.