Jackalock Ransomware (.jackalock Virus)

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Jackalock is a high-risk ransomware-type malware discovered during threat analysis on the VirusTotal platform. It is classified as a variant of the MedusaLocker ransomware family and operates by encrypting files using RSA and AES algorithms, effectively rendering them inaccessible to victims without a unique decryption key. Once encrypted, the affected files receive the “.jackalock” extension, and a ransom note titled “READ_NOTE.html” is generated to demand payment.

Jackalock is not just a file-locking threat; it also involves data exfiltration, which the attackers use to blackmail the victim by threatening to leak confidential files if the ransom isn’t paid. Victims are warned not to tamper with encrypted files or use third-party tools, with threats of irreversible damage or public data leaks.

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Jackalock Ransomware Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Threat Name	Jackalock
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File-locker
Encrypted File Extension	.jackalock
Ransom Note File	READ_NOTE.html
Cybercriminal Contact	pomocit02@kanzensei.top, pomocit02@surakshaguardian.com
Tor Chat Link	qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion
Detection Names	Avast (Win64:MalwareX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Tedy.700016), ESET-NOD32 (Win64/Filecoder.MedusaLock), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic), Microsoft (Ransom:Win64/MedusaLocker.MZT!MTB)
Symptoms of Infection	Files renamed with .jackalock, ransom note on desktop, file access denied
Damage	Complete file encryption, risk of data leak, potential for other malware
Distribution Methods	Phishing emails, malicious attachments, torrent files, software cracks, fake updates
Danger Level	Critical
Recommended Removal Tool	SpyHunter

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Threat Behavior and Impact

Once installed, Jackalock begins encrypting all accessible files, changing filenames like invoice.pdf to invoice.pdf.jackalock. Victims are left with a ransom note that emphasizes urgency, threatening to increase the ransom price after 72 hours and leak stolen personal or business data if payment is not made.

The attackers offer to decrypt 2–3 files for free to prove their ability to restore access, but paying the ransom is strongly discouraged. Many victims of similar ransomware strains report that payment does not guarantee decryption, and it encourages continued criminal operations.

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Detection and Elimination

Jackalock is detected by several reputable antivirus engines, including Kaspersky, ESET, and Microsoft Defender, but complete removal and protection are best achieved using a specialized malware removal tool. We recommend using SpyHunter to eliminate Jackalock ransomware from infected systems and block further threats.

SpyHunter provides real-time protection, heuristic detection, and deep system scans tailored for ransomware threats like Jackalock.

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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.

Conclusion

Jackalock ransomware is a severe cyber threat that not only encrypts your data but also weaponizes your personal or business files through extortion. Victims are coerced into paying a ransom for decryption and to avoid data leaks. However, there are no guarantees that the attackers will uphold their end of the bargain. The best course of action is immediate removal using trusted anti-malware software like SpyHunter and restoring clean backups if available.

Stay protected by being cautious with downloads, email attachments, and update sources, and ensure your system is safeguarded with up-to-date cybersecurity tools.