Ransomware data Recovery Services:
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files on a computer or hard drive, making the data inaccessible to the user. The attackers typically demand a ransom payment in exchange for a decryption key. If your hard drive has been affected by ransomware, professional data recovery services can often help recover your files without paying the ransom. In some cases, if the ransomware damage is severe, the drive itself may need repair to regain access to your data.
This information below will explain what ransomware is, how it affects hard drives, and how we can help you recover your data.
Understanding Ransomware: How It Affects Your Hard Drive
Ransomware attacks work by encrypting the files on your hard drive or storage device or raid server, rendering them inaccessible without the correct decryption key. Once infected, the ransomware may display a message demanding payment in exchange for the key. The encryption can affect individual files, folders, or the entire drive.
Types of Ransomware
- Encrypting Ransomware: This type of ransomware encrypts files using advanced algorithms, making the data inaccessible until a decryption key is obtained.
- Locker Ransomware: This type locks users out of their systems entirely without necessarily encrypting the files, but it demands a ransom to regain access.
- Double-Extortion Ransomware: Some ransomware not only encrypts files but also exfiltrates data to the attacker, who then threatens to leak or sell the information unless the ransom is paid.
Common Signs of a Ransomware Attack
If your hard drive has been infected with ransomware, you may notice these symptoms:
- File Extensions Changed: Files have strange extensions (e.g., .locked, .crypted, or .encrypted), indicating encryption.
- Inability to Access Files: Attempting to open files results in errors, or they appear corrupted.
- Ransom Note: A message or popup appears on your screen demanding payment in exchange for access to your files.
- System Lockout: You are unable to access your desktop or hard drive due to a system lock.
Steps to Take if Your Hard Drive Is Affected by Ransomware
If you suspect your hard drive has been infected with ransomware, here are important steps to take immediately:
- Disconnect from the Network: Isolate the affected device from your network to prevent the ransomware from spreading to other devices.
- Do Not Pay the Ransom: Paying the ransom does not guarantee that the attackers will decrypt your files. Professional recovery services may offer a better solution.
- Do Not Attempt DIY Fixes: Using free online tools or unverified decryption methods can sometimes make the situation worse by damaging the files further.
- Consult a Professional Recovery Service: Contact ourselves as we are experienced in dealing with ransomware to evaluate your options.
Professional Ransomware Hard Drive Recovery Services
Our Ransomware recovery services specialise in decrypting files, removing the malware, and restoring your system to a functional state. In some cases, recovery services can retrieve your data without paying the ransom, especially if there is a known solution for that specific type of ransomware. We have been dealing with different ransomware for last 15 years. Our expert engineers know how to decrypt data from ransomware like CryptoWall 3.0, CryptoWall 4.0, Locky, CTB Locker, Torrent Locker, DMA Locker, CryptoWall, Maktub, LeChiffre, CryptXXX, Coverton, TeslaCrypt, CryptoHost, and Cerber.
1. Decryption and Data Recovery
We maintain a database of ransomware variants and their decryption keys. If the ransomware affecting your hard drive is a known variant, recovery experts can often decrypt your files without needing to pay the ransom.
- Decryption Tools: Our recovery specialists use specialised decryption tools and techniques to restore access to your files.
- Ransomware Analysis: Experts analyse the type of ransomware and identify if a decryption solution is available.
- Custom Decryption: If the ransomware is new or particularly advanced, our specialists may develop custom tools to decrypt the files.
2. Data Recovery from Encrypted or Damaged Drives
Sometimes ransomware encrypts not only the files but also corrupts the drive’s file system or partition table. In such cases, professional services can recover data from encrypted or damaged hard drives using advanced recovery techniques.
- File System Repair: If ransomware has corrupted the file system or partition table, recovery services can repair the logical structure to restore access to files.
- Encrypted Data Recovery: Experts can recover and decrypt data from hard drives that are heavily encrypted or have sustained damage from ransomware.
- Multiple Layers of Encryption: Some ransomware attacks encrypt files multiple times or use sophisticated encryption methods. Recovery experts can tackle these complex scenarios using specialized tools.
3. Removing Ransomware and Malware
Recovery services also help remove the ransomware from your system to ensure that it doesn’t spread or reinfect the recovered files.
- Malware Removal: Experts use advanced tools to remove all traces of the ransomware from the system.
- Security Patches and System Repair: Services often install updates and security patches to protect against future ransomware attacks.
4. Drive Repair for Physically Damaged Hard Drives
In rare cases, ransomware infections can coincide with or cause physical damage to your hard drive, especially if the ransomware causes constant disk activity or overheating. Professional recovery services can repair and recover data from physically damaged hard drives.
- Mechanical Repairs: For mechanical failures in HDDs (such as head crashes or spindle motor issues), professionals can perform repairs to access the data.
- Electrical Repairs: If the ransomware attack causes power surges or electrical damage, recovery services can repair damaged PCBs or other electronic components.