The Black Prince Virus is a dangerous ransomware variant that encrypts victims’ files and demands a hefty ransom in exchange for file recovery. This malware has become increasingly notorious for spreading via malicious email attachments, fake software downloads, and compromised websites. Once inside your system, it stealthily encrypts your data, renames files with the .black
extension, and delivers a ransom note named #Read-for-recovery.txt
.
Despite its intimidating tactics, security experts warn against paying the ransom. Cybercriminals behind threats like Black Prince often vanish without providing any decryption tools. Instead, it’s safer to remove the infection and explore professional data recovery options.
Summary of Black Prince Virus
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Encrypted File Extension | .black |
Ransom Note Filename | #Read-for-recovery.txt |
Associated Email | Not specified (may vary per campaign) |
Detection Names | Varies: Win32/Filecoder.BlackPrince.A (example) |
Symptoms | Files renamed to .black , ransom note appears, system slowdowns |
Damage | File encryption, potential data theft, system modification |
Distribution Methods | Malicious email attachments, pirated software, harmful websites |
Danger Level | High |
What Is Black Prince Virus?
Black Prince Virus is classified as ransomware—a type of malicious software designed to block access to a system or its data until a ransom is paid. Once installed, it uses strong encryption algorithms to lock commonly used file types including documents, photos, videos, and databases.
The attack is marked by the creation of a ransom note titled #Read-for-recovery.txt
, and the renaming of encrypted files with the .black
extension. These files become unusable without a unique decryption key, which the attackers promise to deliver after receiving payment, typically in cryptocurrency.
The Ransom Note
Once files are locked, victims receive the following message in a text file named #Read-for-recovery.txt
:
All your files have been encrypted!
To restore them, you must contact us and pay for the decryption key.
We can prove decryption is possible by unlocking one file (up to 5MB, no databases).
Contact us immediately at:
[no email address specified yet]
Time is limited. Delays will result in permanent data loss.
This message is designed to create urgency and manipulate victims into complying with the ransom demand.
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
- 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:
- 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.
- Press Windows + R, type
- 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:
- Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
- Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
- Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.
Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes
For Windows Users:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
- Right-click on the process and select End Task.
For Mac Users:
- Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
- Look for unusual processes.
- Select the process and click Force Quit.
Step 4: Delete Malicious Files
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
%temp%
, and hit Enter. - Delete all files in the Temp folder.
- Navigate to:
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
C:\Windows\System32
- Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.
For Mac Users:
- Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
- Type
~/Library/Application Support
and delete suspicious folders. - 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.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit
, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
- Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
- Right-click and select Delete.
For Mac Users:
- Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
- Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
- Navigate to
~/Library/Preferences
and remove malicious.plist
files.
Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
rstrui
, and hit Enter. - Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.
For Mac Users:
- Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
- Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
- 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
- Open the downloaded file (
SpyHunter-Installer.exe
). - Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
- Once installed, launch SpyHunter.
Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan
- Click on Start Scan Now.
- SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
- Wait for the scan to complete.
Step 4: Remove Detected Threats
- After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
- 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.
How Did Black Prince Get Into My System?
This ransomware uses a variety of infection vectors:
- Email Phishing: Malicious attachments or links in deceptive emails.
- Pirated Software: Cracked games or tools from unreliable sources.
- Malicious Ads and Websites: Drive-by downloads from unsafe URLs.
Once the malware executes, it installs components in critical folders such as %System%
, %AppData%
, %Temp%
, and others. It modifies the Windows Registry to launch itself on every system startup and may attempt to connect to a command-and-control (C2) server operated by attackers.
What Happens After Infection?
Black Prince targets commonly used file formats, encrypts them, and changes their extension to .black
. During this process, it may also harvest sensitive user data. The ransomware can compromise:
- Personal files (images, documents, music)
- Work-related databases and spreadsheets
- System files and configurations
The impact is severe, especially for businesses that rely on uninterrupted access to their data.
Final Thoughts
Black Prince is a high-risk ransomware threat that should be handled with extreme caution. Although it may tempt victims with a promise of file restoration, paying the ransom carries no guarantee of success. The safer approach is to isolate the system, consult cybersecurity professionals, and explore backup or recovery options.
If you are still having trouble, consider contacting virtual technical support.