UraLocker Ransomware

You log into your PC and discovering every document, photo, and project file renamed with a strange new extension: “.rdplocked.” Alongside the changes, your desktop wallpaper has been replaced with a grim message, and an HTML file demands a ransom paid in cryptocurrency. This is no isolated incident—it’s the work of UraLocker, a new crypto-ransomware threat that’s already locking systems and crippling access to critical data.

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Threat Overview

UraLocker belongs to the ransomware family of malicious software—programs designed to encrypt files and demand payment for their release. Its targets are indiscriminate: personal users, small businesses, even networked environments. Once inside, it methodically encrypts documents, images, videos, and archives using RSA-2048 encryption—rendering them unusable without a private key.

This threat demands urgent attention because its strong encryption and anonymous payment system make file recovery nearly impossible without clean backups or advanced decryption expertise.

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In-Depth Analysis

Infection Vector

UraLocker spreads through several common cybercriminal tactics. These include:

• Malicious email attachments disguised as invoices, job applications, or delivery receipts.
• Fake software installers or key generators downloaded from torrent sites.
• Compromised software packages on unofficial repositories.
• Drive-by downloads via malvertising or exploit kits on shady websites.

Once the file is executed, the infection proceeds silently in the background.

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Behavioral Profile

Here’s what UraLocker does after it activates:

1. Establishes Persistence – It modifies registry keys to ensure it relaunches after reboot.
2. Scans and Encrypts Files – Targets a wide range of file types across local and connected drives.
3. Appends .rdplocked Extension – Each encrypted file is renamed, e.g., “invoice.docx” becomes “invoice.docx.rdplocked.”
4. Drops Ransom Note – Creates a file named Decrypt.html with instructions.
5. Alters Wallpaper – The desktop background changes to alert the user about the encryption.
6. Demands Ransom via qTox – Victims must download the secure messenger qTox and contact a cryptic ID. The ransom amount is 0.0013 Bitcoin.

The ransomware does not display a traditional application window and avoids drawing attention until encryption is complete.

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Risk Assessment

The encryption algorithm used—RSA‑2048—is military-grade. Without the attacker’s private key, decryption is unfeasible through brute-force or conventional software tools.

There’s also no guarantee that paying the ransom leads to file recovery. Many victims report no response after payment. Moreover, secondary threats such as credential stealers or backdoors may accompany the main payload, allowing prolonged system compromise.

In business environments, the threat multiplies: shared drives, cloud-synced folders, and network shares all become potential casualties. Downtime can be catastrophic.

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Ransom Note Text

Your Files Are Encrypted  
All of your important files have been encrypted using strong 2048‑bit RSA encryption.  
To decrypt your files, you must pay 0.0013 Bitcoin to the following qTox ID:  
ED999457F76F2AA928782F8A3D9A7FF7EFA3F9AF50114897D9E08B1A87BF3B2B4051EDA6AC84  

Download and install the qTox messenger.  
Add the ID above as a contact.  
Send your unique ID and wait for payment instructions.  
Do not rename, delete, or move encrypted files.  
Any tampering will result in permanent data loss.

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

UraLocker isn’t just another ransomware strain—it’s a stealthy, high-risk data wrecker exploiting careless downloads and unpatched systems. Its use of strong encryption, anonymous communication, and low ransom demand suggests an attempt at mass infection rather than targeted extortion.

What’s the smartest move if infected?

• Disconnect from the internet immediately.
• Do not pay the ransom—there’s no certainty of recovery.
• Use a trusted removal tool like SpyHunter to eliminate the infection.
• Restore files from secure, offline backups if available.
• Reinforce defenses by disabling macros, updating software, and avoiding dubious downloads.

Cybersecurity begins with awareness. Don’t wait until files are gone—fortify your system now.