Desolator Ransomware (.desolated)

Desolator ransomware is a newly identified file-encrypting malware that appends the “.desolated” extension to compromised files and demands a ransom for their decryption. This malicious software alters the victim’s desktop wallpaper and drops a ransom note titled RecoverYourFiles.txt, urging immediate contact with the attackers within 48 hours to prevent permanent data loss.

---

Threat Overview

Desolator operates as a ransomware-type malware, encrypting files and coercing victims into paying a ransom for decryption. Upon execution, it modifies file extensions, changes the desktop background, and delivers a ransom note with specific instructions.

---

Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware
Encrypted File Extension	.desolated
Ransom Note File Name	RecoverYourFiles.txt
Associated Email Addresses	Not specified
Detection Names	Not specified
Symptoms of Infection	Files appended with .desolated, desktop wallpaper changed, ransom note present
Damage	File encryption leading to data inaccessibility
Distribution Methods	Phishing emails, malicious downloads, exploit kits
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

---

In-Depth Threat Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

Desolator ransomware typically infiltrates systems through deceptive means such as phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links, compromised websites hosting exploit kits, and bundled software downloads from unreliable sources. Once executed, it encrypts files and demands a ransom for their release.

What Does It Do?

Upon infection, Desolator encrypts a wide range of file types, appending the .desolated extension to each. It then changes the desktop wallpaper to a ransom message and creates a text file named RecoverYourFiles.txt, which provides instructions for contacting the attackers and paying the ransom. Victims are warned against using third-party decryption tools or modifying encrypted files, as these actions may lead to permanent data loss.

Should You Be Worried for Your System?

Yes. Desolator poses a significant threat to data integrity and system functionality. The encryption renders files inaccessible, and the lack of a guaranteed decryption method without paying the ransom places victims in a precarious position. Furthermore, complying with ransom demands does not ensure file recovery and may encourage further criminal activity.

---

Ransom Note Text

The ransom note RecoverYourFiles.txt contains the following message:

Your files have been encrypted. To recover them, contact us within 48 hours. Failure to do so will result in permanent data loss. Do not attempt to decrypt the files yourself or use third-party tools, as this may cause irreversible damage.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

Conclusion

Desolator ransomware is a severe cyber threat that encrypts files and demands payment for their decryption. Victims are urged not to pay the ransom, as it does not guarantee file recovery and supports criminal activities. Instead, use reputable anti-malware tools like SpyHunter to remove the infection and restore files from secure backups.