.dlock Ransomware

The .dlock Ransomware, also known as Deadlock Ransomware, is a dangerous cyber threat that encrypts files across your computer and demands a ransom payment to decrypt them. This malware targets individuals and businesses alike, locking crucial documents, media, and databases until victims comply with extortion demands.

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Threat Overview

Feature	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware
Encrypted File Extension	.dlock
Ransom Note File Name(s)	README_RECOVER_FILES.txt
Associated Email Addresses	Multiple, often “support@dlock.io” or similar
Detection Names	Trojan.Ransom.Deadlock, Ransom:Win32/Dlock
Symptoms of Infection	Files renamed with .dlock; ransom note on desktop; inaccessible files
Damage	File encryption; temporary system instability; potential data loss
Distribution Methods	Spam email attachments; malicious downloads; exploit kits
Danger Level	High – encrypts valuable data, disrupts business operations
Removal Tool	SpyHunter (download: https://purchase.enigmasoftware.com/?sid=tapf-jmi-ywuxmtf&ref=ywuxmtf)

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Detailed Evaluation

How I Got Infected

Most victims get infected by opening a seemingly harmless email attachment—usually a macro-laden Office file or a ZIP archive. In other cases, malicious ads or fake software updaters push the ransomware onto systems.

What Does It Do

Once executed, .dlock ransomware searches through connected drives, encrypting files and appending .dlock to filenames. It then drops a ransom note README_RECOVER_FILES.txt, demanding Bitcoin payment to obtain a decryption key.

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Ransom Note Text

All your files have been encrypted with a strong encryption algorithm.
To recover them, you must pay a ransom.
1. Write to our email: support@dlock.io
2. Or visit our site: [unique_link]
Payment: Bitcoin only.
After payment, we will send you a decryptor and instructions.

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Should You Be Worried?

Absolutely. .dlock Ransomware is sophisticated and highly destructive. It uses advanced cryptographic techniques, meaning decryption without the attackers’ key is nearly impossible. Victims face serious data loss risks unless they have reliable backups or pay the ransom—a gamble with criminal behavior.

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Expert Analysis

• Encryption strength: High – strong algorithms make recovery extremely difficult without backups or decryptor.
• Distribution tactics: Dynamic – uses phishing campaigns and exploit kits, meaning even cautious users can be vulnerable.
• Decryption feasibility: Without full backups or a decryptor, recovery is unlikely—victims are forced to negotiate or pay.
• Best defense: Regular backups, updated OS and software, robust email filtering, and proactive malware protection.

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

The .dlock (Deadlock) Ransomware is a formidable cyberthreat, targeting users with deceptive emails and compromising system files. Modern cyber defenses like SpyHunter offer essential protection, but the best shield is consistent discipline: securing backups, patching systems, and recognizing phishing tactics. If affected, consult security professionals before considering ransom payment.