Friends Ransomware

Friends Ransomware is a file-encrypting threat associated with the MedusaLocker ransomware family. Once it infiltrates a system, it encrypts documents, images, databases, and other valuable files, then demands payment in exchange for a decryption tool. Victims typically discover the attack after files become inaccessible and a ransom note appears on the compromised device.

Threat Information	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.Friends24, .Friends30, .Friends50, .Friends92 (variants may differ)
Ransom Note Filename	Ransom note dropped after encryption
Email Contact	Specified inside the ransom note
Detection Names	Detected by security vendors as ransomware/MedusaLocker-related threats
Symptoms	Files become inaccessible, filenames gain a new extension, ransom message appears
Damage	File encryption, potential data theft, business disruption, financial loss
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, software cracks, fake updates, compromised downloads, exploit abuse
Danger Level	Critical
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

How Did I Get Infected With Friends Ransomware?

Friends Ransomware spreads through many of the same techniques used by modern ransomware operators. Phishing emails remain one of the most common infection vectors. Attackers disguise malicious attachments as invoices, delivery notices, business documents, or urgent notifications to convince victims to open them.

The malware can also arrive through:

• Fake software installers and updates
• Pirated software and cracks
• Malicious advertisements
• Exploited vulnerabilities in outdated software
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) attacks
• Trojan malware already present on the system

Once executed, the ransomware begins preparing the system for encryption and may attempt to disable security-related processes before locking files.

What Friends Ransomware Does to Your Files

After gaining access to a device, Friends Ransomware scans local drives, network shares, and connected storage devices for valuable data. It then encrypts targeted files using strong cryptographic algorithms, preventing normal access.

Affected files receive a modified extension associated with the Friends variant, including extensions such as .Friends24, .Friends30, .Friends50, or .Friends92. As a result, documents, photos, archives, databases, and other critical files can no longer be opened normally.

The attackers then create a ransom note instructing victims to contact them and negotiate payment for a decryption solution. In many ransomware incidents, cybercriminals also threaten to leak stolen data if payment is not made.

Should You Be Worried About Friends Ransomware?

Yes. Friends Ransomware should be considered a severe security incident.

The threat goes beyond simple file encryption. Modern ransomware campaigns often involve data theft, credential harvesting, and lateral movement across business networks. This means a single infected device can potentially lead to broader organizational compromise.

Victims should avoid paying the ransom whenever possible. There is no guarantee that criminals will provide a working decryptor after receiving payment. Many victims lose both their money and their data.

Immediate response steps include:

1. Disconnect the infected device from the network.
2. Remove the ransomware using trusted security software.
3. Preserve encrypted files for future recovery opportunities.
4. Restore data from clean backups if available.
5. Change passwords that may have been exposed.
6. Investigate whether sensitive information was stolen.

Ransom Note Dropped by Friends Ransomware

The ransom note left by Friends Ransomware informs victims that their files have been encrypted and instructs them to contact the attackers for payment instructions. Like other MedusaLocker-family threats, the message typically pressures victims into acting quickly and may threaten permanent data loss or public disclosure of stolen information.

Cybercriminals often offer to decrypt a limited number of files as “proof” that recovery is possible. This tactic is designed to build trust and increase the likelihood of payment.

Remember that communication with threat actors carries significant risk. Even when victims comply with demands, decryption is never guaranteed.

Conclusion

Friends Ransomware is a dangerous file-locking threat capable of causing significant financial and operational damage. The malware encrypts valuable files, appends Friends-related extensions, and pressures victims to pay for recovery. Organizations and home users alike should focus on prevention through regular backups, security updates, employee awareness training, and reliable endpoint protection.

If your system has been infected, remove the malware immediately, isolate affected devices, and attempt recovery using secure backups or future decryption solutions released by the cybersecurity community.

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.