Remove FMLN Ransomware

FMLN ransomware is a malicious file-encrypting virus discovered during an inspection of suspicious files uploaded to VirusTotal. Like other crypto malware, FMLN is designed to lock victims’ data and demand a ransom for decryption. It alters file names by appending a specific pattern and leaves intimidating ransom notes in both a pop-up window and a “README.txt” file.

Once executed, this malware renames files using the format [original_filename].crypt-[original_extension]. For instance, 1.jpg becomes 1.crypt-jpg, while 2.png is renamed to 2.crypt-png. It also changes the desktop wallpaper and displays alarming instructions urging users not to remove the ransomware or disable their antivirus software.

Threat Summary

Feature	Details
Threat Name	FMLN Ransomware
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.crypt-[original_extension]
Ransom Note File	Pop-up window and README.txt
Contact Email	dharkonsk@gmail.com
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:Malware-gen), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Zusy.535887), ESET-NOD32 (Win32/KillProc.NFI), Kaspersky (HEUR:Exploit.Multi.DrvDos.gen), Malwarebytes (Generic.Malware/Suspicious)
Symptoms of Infection	Inaccessible files, changed extensions, ransom notes on desktop
Damage	Complete data encryption, possible installation of additional malware
Distribution Methods	Infected email attachments, torrents, fake updates, malvertising
Danger Level	High
Free Decryptor Available	No

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Ransom Note Texts

Pop-up Window Message:

nginxCopyEditSus archivos han sido cifrados por el FMLN, no intente eliminar este programa o nunca recuperara sus archivos, para recuperar sus archivos envie una solicitud de desencriptacion al correo dharkonsk@gmail.com, no desactive su antivirus, si su antivirus borra este programa no podra recuperar sus archivos nunca, para desencriptar sus archivos escriba al correo mencionado e ingrese el codigo de desencriptacion que usted reciba de el correo en la consola, una vez lo haga sus archivos seran desencriptados.

README.txt File:

nginxCopyEditFMLN Ransomware

Lea detenidamente el documento de texto y siga
los pasos indicados si desea recuperar sus archivos

1 - Abra su navegador web o su cuenta de correo electronico

2 - Envie una solicitud de desencriptacion a la siguiente cuenta de correo: dharkonsk@gmail.com

3 - Probablemente usted deba cumplir algo, cumpla y se le consedera el codigo

4 - Ingrese el codigo que recibio por correo electronico en la consola

Debe saber que si no cumple con la posible solicitud que se le imponga,
no se le confiara el codigo de desencriptacion.

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Removal Guide for FMLN Ransomware

1. Disconnect from the Internet
   Prevent further communication with the attacker or malware from spreading.
2. Enter Safe Mode (Mac or Windows)
   Boot into Safe Mode to reduce system activity.
3. Scan with Antivirus Software
   Use legitimate security software like Combo Cleaner for Mac or other trusted AV tools.
   Perform a full system scan to identify and remove the FMLN ransomware.
4. Delete Suspicious Files and Programs
   Manually look for unfamiliar apps installed around the time of infection and remove them.
5. Check for Additional Malware
   Ransomware may install trojans or backdoors. Scan again to ensure total removal.

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Data Recovery Tips

• Use Backups: If available, restore files from backups stored on external drives or remote servers.
• Shadow Copies & File History: Try to restore older versions of files using Windows’ file history.
• Data Recovery Tools: Consider using tools like Recuva, PhotoRec, or R-Studio. However, success is not guaranteed.

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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.

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Conclusion

FMLN ransomware is a dangerous file-locking malware that leaves victims without access to their data. It uses scare tactics, Spanish-language ransom notes, and deceptive warnings to manipulate victims into paying. However, paying the ransom is never advised – there’s no guarantee the attackers will deliver the decryption key. Instead, focus on malware removal and data recovery through backups and professional tools.

Proactive cybersecurity practices are key to avoiding infections like FMLN in the future. Stay cautious, stay updated, and back up regularly.