What is .Empty ransomware?
The EMPTY ransomware will encrypt the files stored on your computer and change the extension to. EMPTY, thereby making them inaccessible. After encrypting it shows a ransom note and ask for Bitcoin cryptocurrency, in exchange for access to the encrypted data. The EMPTY virus is a new variant of the Crypto Mix ransomware, that infects and encrypt user’s including texts, photos, presentations, music, video, audio, databases, spreadsheets, configuration files, and numerous other user-generated files. Once it infects the machine it uses a robust algorithm for encryption with the 1024-bit key, appending EMPTY extension to all encrypted documents, photos, and music. Once the encryption procedure is completed, it displays a The Empty Ransomware's Ransom Demands.
Also read -SettingsModifier:Win32/PossibleHostsFile
After encrypting the victim's files, the next step in these tactics is let the victim know of the attack and demand a ransom payment. To do this, the Empty Ransomware drops a text file on the infected PC's desktop. This text file is named '_HELP_INSTRUCTION.txt' and contains the following text:
As per the PC security researchers, it is advised not to contact the emails addresses in the ransom note above for the Empty Ransomware. It is very unlikely that they will help the victims recover their files and, even if they do, it is likely that the victim will be targeted for additional tactics (having demonstrated a willingness to pay once). ransom note present decrypt all user’s photos, documents, and music if a payment is made.
How did the EMPTY ransomware get on my computer?
The EMPTY ransomware is distributed using the most economic method i.e. emails. Spam emails carrying infected attachments or links to malicious websites are primarily used to infect the victim’s computer. Cyber-criminals have come up with a new and creative method of using spam email. These emails use a fake header (subject line or from the line), making you believe that these emails are from a legit shipping company like DHL or FedEx. The email conveys a message such as they tried delivering you a package but failed due to some of the other reason. Some of these emails claim to be notifications of your purchases. Curious about what you or one of your family member might have purchased, you end up opening the attachments with these emails or click the links in the mail. This single action increases the probability of you being infected with this EMPTY ransomware.
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Also Read- How to remove Winsnare Virus
Tips to Prevent Empty Ransomware from Infecting Your System:
1. Enable your popup blocker: Pop-ups and ads in the websites are the most adoptable tactic used by cybercriminals or developers with the core intention to spread malicious programs. So, avoid clicking uncertain sites, software offers, pop-ups etc.
2. Keep your Windows Updated: To avoid such infections, we recommend that you should always keep your system updated through automatic windows update. By doing this you can keep your device free from virus. According to the survey, outdated/older versions of Windows operating system are an easy target.
3. Third-party installation: Try to avoid freeware download websites as they usually install bundled of software with any installer or stub file.
4. Regular Backup: Regular and periodical backup helps you to keep your data safe in case the system is infected by any kind of virus or any other infection. Thus always backup important files regularly on a cloud drive or an external hard drive.
5. Always have an Anti-Virus: Precaution is better than cure. We recommend that you install an antivirus like McAfee or a good Malware Removal Tool like Free Malware RemovalTool
6. Install a powerful ad- blocker for Chrome, Mozilla,and IE.
