For these reasons, maintain regular backups and store them on disconnected/unplugged storage devices or remote servers such as Cloud.

Typically, it impossible to recover/decrypt these files manually, unless the program contains bugs/flaws or is not fully developed. Main differences are usually cost of decryption and cryptography algorithm used to encrypt files. Most programs of this type encrypt files and keep them locked unless a ransom is paid. There are many ransomware-type viruses that are very similar to LOVE including, for example, MegaLocker, Langolier, and Etols. Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data: The best free way to recover encrypted files is to restore them from a data backup. There is a high probability that they will not send any decryption tool even if their victims meet their demands/pay a ransom. Therefore, victims are forced to contact cyber criminals and make payments for decryption tools.ĭespite this, do not contact LOVE (or other ransomware) developers. Generally, these are impossible to decrypt without using a specific decryption tool or key. Most cyber criminals use cryptography algorithms ( symmetric or asymmetric) that cause strong encryptions. The developers of LOVE inform victims that the only way to decrypt their files is to purchase a decryption tool from them. Victims are warned that renaming locked files or trying to decrypt them using other tools might cause permanent data loss. They offer this free decryption as a 'guarantee' that they have a tool capable of decrypting the victim's data. Before paying, victims are permitted to send them one file that they will decrypt free of charge. Once their demands are met/the ransom is paid, they promise to provide a decryption tool. The criminals should then provide a cryptocurrency wallet address and state the cost of decryption.

To receive a decryption tool at a cheaper rate, victims are encouraged to email these people immediately.

To recover their files/data, victims are encouraged to contact LOVE developers via the or email address. This ransomware renames encrypted files by adding an extension which contains the victim's ID, an email address for contacting cyber criminals, and the name of the ransomware.įor example, ' 1.jpg' might be renamed to a filename such as ' It also creates a short ransom message with the ' FILES ENCRYPTED.txt' text file and displays an extended version of this in a pop-up window. This ransomware-type program is used to encrypt files and prevent access to them unless a ransom is paid. Discovered by Jakub Kroustek and Belonging to the Dharma malware family, LOVE is a malicious program that cyber criminals (developers) use to block access to data.

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