Jackpot MedusaLocker Ransomware

The Jackpot MedusaLocker ransomware is a dangerous file-encrypting malware strain that locks your personal data and demands a cryptocurrency ransom in return. It appends the .jackpot extension to encrypted files and drops a ransom note named How_to_back_files.html, pressuring victims to contact cybercriminals via email. This threat is a variant of the infamous MedusaLocker family, known for targeting businesses and individual users alike. Once active, it can disable backups, kill recovery options, and cause permanent data loss.

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Jackpot MedusaLocker Ransomware Overview

Threat Type	Ransomware (MedusaLocker variant)
Encrypted File Extension	.jackpot
Ransom Note Filename	How_to_back_files.html
Email Contact	restore_files@tuta.io, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Detection Names	Win64/Filecoder.MedusaLocker.C, MedusaLocker, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Medusa
Symptoms	Files renamed with .jackpot, ransom note appears, file access blocked
Damage + Distribution Methods	Encrypts files, disables recovery, spreads via phishing, RDP exploits
Danger Level	🔴 High

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How Did I Get Infected With Jackpot MedusaLocker?

Jackpot ransomware usually infiltrates systems through:

• Phishing emails with infected attachments (often ZIP, EXE, or DOCM files)
• Compromised RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) connections with weak credentials
• Malicious ads or cracked software downloads
• Exploit kits on unprotected websites

Once inside, the ransomware executes a chain of scripts that disable security tools and start file encryption. It can also map and lock files on shared network drives.

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What Jackpot MedusaLocker Ransomware Does to Your Files

Immediately after execution, Jackpot ransomware:

1. Encrypts files with strong algorithms and appends the .jackpot extension.
2. Drops a ransom note named How_to_back_files.html in every folder.
3. Disables Shadow Copies, preventing file recovery through Windows.
4. Kills processes related to backups, databases, or security tools.
5. Spreads laterally to other systems via RDP if accessible.

Encrypted files become unusable without the unique decryption key held by the attackers. Paying the ransom is not recommended, as there’s no guarantee of recovery and it encourages criminal activity.

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Should You Be Worried About Jackpot MedusaLocker?

Yes—this is a high-risk ransomware variant. Not only can it lock down essential files, but it may also:

• Target network shares and backup storage
• Cause extended downtime for businesses
• Exfiltrate data in some variants (though MedusaLocker mostly focuses on encryption)

If you’re infected, disconnect your machine from the network immediately to prevent the ransomware from spreading.

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Ransom Note Dropped by Jackpot MedusaLocker

The ransom note is titled How_to_back_files.html and includes the following demands:

“Your files are encrypted. If you want to restore them, write to one of the emails: restore_files@tuta.io or datarestorehelp@airmail.cc“

It typically threatens to destroy the decryption key if victims don’t respond within 72 hours. The attackers instruct you to send a few test files to prove decryption is possible—but this is part of the psychological manipulation to pressure payment.

Do NOT contact or pay the attackers. There are better solutions.

Manual Ransomware Removal Guide

Warning: Manual removal is complex and risky. If not done correctly, it can lead to data loss or incomplete removal of ransomware. Only follow this method if you are an advanced user. If unsure, proceed with Method 2 (SpyHunter Removal Guide).

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

1. Unplug your Ethernet cable or disconnect Wi-Fi immediately to prevent further communication with the ransomware’s command and control (C2) servers.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

For Windows Users:

1. For Windows 10, 11:
   • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
   • Go to the Boot tab.
   • Check Safe boot and select Network.
   • Click Apply and OK, then restart your PC.
2. For Windows 7, 8:
   • Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows loads.
   • Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
2. Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
3. Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes

For Windows Users:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
3. Right-click on the process and select End Task.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
2. Look for unusual processes.
3. Select the process and click Force Quit.

Step 4: Delete Malicious Files

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
2. Delete all files in the Temp folder.
3. Navigate to:
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
   • C:\Windows\System32
4. Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
2. Type ~/Library/Application Support and delete suspicious folders.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/LaunchAgents and remove unknown .plist files.

Step 5: Remove Ransomware from Registry or System Settings

For Windows Users:

Warning: Incorrect changes in the Registry Editor can damage your system. Proceed with caution.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
3. Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
4. Right-click and select Delete.

For Mac Users:

1. Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
2. Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/Preferences and remove malicious .plist files.

Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
2. Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
3. Choose a backup prior to the ransomware infection and restore your system.

Step 7: Use a Decryption Tool (If Available)

• Visit No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) and check if a decryption tool is available for your ransomware variant.

Step 8: Recover Files Using Backup

• If you have backups on an external drive or cloud storage, restore your files.

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Automatic Ransomware Removal Using SpyHunter

If manual removal seems too risky or complicated, using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter is the best alternative.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

Download SpyHunter from the official link: Download SpyHunter

Or follow the official installation instructions here:
SpyHunter Download Instructions

Step 2: Install SpyHunter

1. Open the downloaded file (SpyHunter-Installer.exe).
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
3. Once installed, launch SpyHunter.

Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Click on Start Scan Now.
2. SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
3. Wait for the scan to complete.

Step 4: Remove Detected Threats

1. After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
2. Click Fix Threats to remove the ransomware.

Step 5: Use SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk (If Needed)

If you are dealing with a stubborn ransomware variant, SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk provides custom fixes to remove advanced threats.

Step 6: Restore Your Files

If your files are encrypted:

• Try No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) for decryption tools.
• Restore from cloud storage or external backups.

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Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks

• Keep backups on an external hard drive or cloud storage.
• Use SpyHunter to detect threats before they infect your system.
• Enable Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
• Avoid suspicious emails, attachments, and links.
• Update Windows, macOS & software regularly.

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Conclusion

Jackpot MedusaLocker ransomware is a brutal file-encrypting threat that can cripple personal systems and entire business networks. Its .jackpot extension is a red flag that your files are now hostage. The most important steps: isolate the infected device, remove the ransomware with a tool like SpyHunter, and restore from clean backups if available. If you lack backups, seek professional data recovery help before ever considering a ransom payment.

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