What is LooCipher Virus?

The ransomware-type programs are designed to encrypt the data and make them unusable. Once it gains the access of your system, it scans every corner to search for the targeted files. LooCipher – the dangerous ransomware adds a unique extension to the targeted filename.

LooCipher ransomware is file encryption software which restricts the access of files. The cryptography algorithm used is not yet revealed however, the algorithm used creates a unique key for every encrypted file. This key is generated on the remote server. With this decryption key, the hackers blackmail the victim with the motive to extort money. Cyber criminals demand large amount of ransom, which is equal to $330 in the form of bitcoins in exchange of the decryption key. The victim is forced to pay the ransom within 5 days after the LooCipher attack. If the victim fails to make the payment in bitcoins, the decryption key will be destroyed. As a result, you can never restore your files ever again.

Hence, the victim with the fear of losing their important data/files, get ready to pay the asked ransom. However, by paying the ransom, you support the spread of evil.

Threat Summary

Distribution Techniques

The most preferred gateway for LooCipher virus is the spam e-mails with malicious attachments. These e-mails can appear legitimate however, the danger is buried deep in the text or the attached file. In most of the cases, these e-mails are spent with the names of well-known shipping companies. It tells us about an undelivered packet, even if you haven’t ordered anything. Sometimes they notify you about the confirmation of a shipment made by you. Either way, out of curiosity, when you open the attached file, your system is exposed to the risk of malicious LooCipher. Hence, we advise you to never open the suspicious e-mails.

In addition, another technique used by the developers to proliferate the malicious software is via software updating tool. Originally, they were designed to exploit the bugs and flaws of outdated software. However, developers are using these tools to distribute computer ransomware or viruses.

You must have heard of Trojans! It is a malicious program which makes the backdoor entry in your system. Once it is successfully installed, it will open gateways for other malicious programs.

Threat Behavior of LooCipher Virus

Typically, LooCipher ransomware is a malicious program that blocks the access to your files. As mentioned earlier, it gains the access of your system through the malicious file attachments in spam e-mails. Once, it infiltrates the system, it appends ‘.lcphr’ extension to the encrypted filenames. The encryption algorithm used by this malicious program is strong and generates a unique decryption key for every locked file. This key is stored on the server of LooCipher developers. After successful file encryption, you can no longer open/read your files. In order to restore your corrupted files, you are bound to purchase the decryption key by developers. Simultaneously, this devastating software creates a ransom note ‘@Please_Read_Me.txt’. Every time you try to open your virus encrypted files, the created ransom note will be displayed on your screen. The ransom note provides a link which enables you to download the decryption tool.

Ransom Note (@Please_Read_Me.txt):

Due to the powerful cryptography algorithm, the LooCipher Virus file recovery is not an easy task. It is next to impossible to restore your data without the private key. Furthermore, these cyber crooks sometimes, do not share the decryption key even after receiving the demanded ransom amount. In other words, the users are trapped in the hacker’s scam & suffered a loss of finance as well as data.

If you want to safeguard yourself from such scams, backup your data on regular basis. In addition, if you find yourself being the victim, scan you system with a good anti-virus to delete LooCipher ransomware virus. If the malicious file is found in your system, make sure to remove it immediately.

Removal guidelines for LooCipher Virus

STEP A: Reboot your system to Safe Mode

STEP B: Delete the suspicious file from Configuration Settings

1. Type “Msconfig” in search box / Run Box, select it and press Enter.
2. Click on “Services” Tab and click on “Hide all Microsoft services”.
3. Select LooCipher ransomware from the list of remaining services and disable it by removing the tick mark from the checkbox and click on Apply button.

STEP C: Remove malicious file from Command Prompt

Once the system starts, ensure to use an account with administrative privilege to access Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

After the user enters admin credentials, Command prompt window is displayed wherein you are entitled to enter the below commands:

1. Type the command “sc delete LooCipher ransomware” in the command prompt and press Enter.
2. Type “exit” to exit the command prompt and restart the system in safe mode with command prompt.

STEP D: Restore the system files & folders

Tips to prevent the LooCipher Virus from your system

1. Keeping the Operating System Updated- In order to remain protected and avoid such infections, it is recommended to keep your Operating System updated by enabling the automatic update on your system. The systems with outdated or older versions of Operating System become an easy target for the attackers.
2. Resist clicking on spam emails – One of the major techniques used for malware distribution is forwarding spam emails to the user. The system gets infected as soon as the user clicks on the attachment. These mails appear to be genuine, so be aware and resist falling for these tricks.
3. Keep an eye on third party installations- It is quite important that you take due care while installing any third party applications for they are major source of such infections. Such malware programs come bundled with the free applications thereby requiring the user to remain cautious.
4. Regular periodical backup- In order to keep your data and files safe, it is recommended to take regular back up of all your data and files either on an external drive or cloud.
5. Use Anti-Virus Protection- We strongly recommend the use of antivirus protection/internet security in your PC like Bull Guard and Kaspersky so that it remains safe.
6. Enable the Ad Blocker/Popup Blocker in your browser- Enabling the popup blocker/ ad blocker in your chosen browser will help you to stay protected from annoying adware.

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