How to Recover Ransomware Encrypted Files

Businesses of all sizes are the target of cybercriminals. The number of cyberattacks is increasing and becoming sophisticated. In 2020, malware attacks increased by 358%, while ransomware increased by 435% compared to the previous year. 

Due to the increase in the number of attacks, Gartner projected that most businesses would spend around $170.4 billion on security by 2022.

However, despite the increase in reported cases of attacks, there are still businesses whose data is compromised regularly. It’s because organizations still lack awareness of cybersecurity and what to do to protect their data.

Also, the growing remote workforce, increasing number of connected devices, and the gap between cybersecurity professionals contribute to an increase in business and consumer attacks.

Ransomware is one of the most common cybersecurity threats that attack businesses and individual users. Most victims of ransomware lack cybersecurity practices or knowledge about the threat.

So, we will discuss what ransomware is, what you can do when you experience it, and how to protect yourself from future attacks.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files of the victim. The attacker will soon demand a ransom in exchange for the encrypted files

The average ransom paid was $170,404. However, some businesses pay even millions to retrieve the data. Some organizations paid the ransom and were not able to get all their data.

Paying ransom for data encryption is expensive. It can even cost businesses to file for bankruptcy. For individual users, paying for encrypted files is not an option since it will cost more than they have.

How Can Ransomware Get into Your Device?

Ransomware can affect computers in several ways. However, the most common route is via phishing emails. When an email containing a malicious attachment gets downloaded by the victim, hackers will trick users into giving them admin access. Therefore, they can start encrypting the files of the victim. 

Also, some forms of ransomware use security holes like outdated operating systems or software to infect a device.

Once the malware gains access to the device, it can perform any action. However, most ransomware blocks the victim from accessing their files or sometimes the entire computer. 

Once files are encrypted, the attacker will send a message or flash a message on the screen explaining your files are inaccessible, and the only way to retrieve them is to pay. 

Some malware can also shut the whole computer down or threaten the victim that their files will be leaked.

Who Do Hackers Target Often?

Ransomware hackers often attack organizations of different sizes. Sometimes they even attack individuals of various backgrounds. Hackers target individuals with weak security. Also, they go after organizations that would pay the ransom without thinking.

When your data has been compromised, you might worry that there’s no other way to retrieve the content. However, you can implement some steps that might get your files back instead of paying the ransom.

How to Recover Ransomware Encrypted Files?

Disconnect Device from Network

Once you’ve found out your device has ransomware, disconnect it from the internet to avoid the spread to other devices.

Pay the Ransom

If you can’t wait to retrieve your files because they’re valuable, you can pay the ransom and hope for the best. Some cybercriminals don’t return or give you access to your encrypted files even after payment. However, our advice is not to do it.

Check if Files Are Encrypted or Hidden Only

How to check if files are hidden?

• Open Start bar.
• Type Hidden and choose Show Hidden Files.
• Check the box in front of Change Setting to Show File Extensions.
• Click Show Settings.
• Click the circle in front of the Show Hidden Files, Folder, and Drives.
• Click OK.
• Go to or open My Computer.
• Choose an empty hard drive. If it looks greyed out, the files are back.
• Highlight all files (CTRL + A).
• Right-click > choose Properties.
• Uncheck the box of Hidden.
• Files will be back to normal.

If there are no files, then they might be encrypted by the hacker. So, follow the procedures instructed below.

Restore Backup Data

The best and fastest way to recover files is to restore your backup files. Restore the latest version of data as they don’t contain ransomware or infected files. However, before the restoration process, make sure to get rid of the ransomware first.

There are various ways to get rid of the infected files. However, the best way to entirely remove it from your PC is to reset the system using factory default.

Use the Windows System Restore

If you are using a Windows operating system, you can recover your data using the Windows System Restore in the Control Panel. The use of Windows System Restore is to store a specific backup of your device, which you can access when needed.

Go to the Control Panel > select System and Security > choose Backup and Restore > click Restore Files from backup > follow the instructions provided.

Windows File Versions

You can also choose to restore a specific file or folder using the Windows File Version. It helps when the encrypted file is usually a single folder.

Right-click the file you want to restore > select Properties > choose the Previous Version > select the version to restore > choose if you want to create a copy or overwrite the encrypted file.

Use Data Recovery Software

If you cannot recover your data from your backup files, there are third-party apps that can recover data that is encrypted. Data recovery software can help restore deleted files, corrupted, de-format drives, and repair hard drives.

• Stellar Data Recovery: It is the best data recovery software preferred by businesses and consumers. It can recover data from Windows, Mac, and iPhone.

• Disk Drill: Use for Windows and Mac. It can recover any file format, undamaged storage device, and encrypted files.

• EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: It is made for Windows PCs to recover from data loss. Whether you encounter an accidental file deletion, virus attack, or system crash, you can recover files from this handy tool.

Try Ransomware Decryption Tools

Ransomware Decryption tools are used to decrypt files using an algorithm created by experts. However, these tools depend on the type of ransomware that infected your device. 

Make sure that you download tools from a legitimate source. 

After installing the decryption tool, follow the instructions provided. 

What to Do After Encrypting Your Files?

After removing the ransomware or infected file and retrieving your data, you need to protect your devices to prevent future attacks.

Here are some tips you can practice to avoid becoming a victim of ransomware again:

• Avoid opening suspicious emails or clicking on links or attachments.
• Use an effective antivirus software like Bitdefender. Not sure which Bitdefender product to use? Take a look at this article about Bitdefender Internet Security and Total Security.
• Back up your files regularly. You can schedule an automatic backup or perform it manually. 
• In some countries, you can report the ransomware attack as it is considered an illegal cybercrime.

It’s always best to prevent an attack than retrieving your files or getting rid of the malware. Take a look at this Ultimate Cybersecurity Checklist to make sure you continuously keep your business or personal data safe from threats.