Atek Virus – Details
Atek is a malicious software application functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, very first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Atek was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as quickly as the file encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are not able to get access to them. Atek ransomware adds its own “.atek” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Atek, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.atek”. Once the encryption is achieved, Atek puts its own special text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The message mentioned by text file requesting the random os extremely comparable to the alerts given by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The caution basically shows that the files have been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely real.
The method to secure the files used by Atek is not completely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner may be issued a special decryption key, which is definitely distinct. It is incredibly difficult to recover the data without the proper type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Atek infection is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the total control by the criminals who have introduced the Atek virus into the web. In order to obtain the key and bring back the essential information, the users are told to contact the scams by means of email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise says that the people need to get in touch with the Atek authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so individuals will get a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Atek crypted your data, however, it might not be the only risk on your PC. Plus, the ransomware might be hidden deep in the system. To identify and delete the risk entirely, we suggest you to refer to the aid of GridinSoft Anti-Malware app.
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we highly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online crooks will keep their guarantees, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is received into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom typically does not result in a successful healing. So, the users may just lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Similarly, we urge you not to call the frauds as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that could split the Atek ransomware or bring back the data for free. For that reason, the only right decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Atek Ransomware |
| File Extension | atek |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Family | DJVU |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts all the data stored on your system and requires a ransom to be paid on your part supposedly to recover your important files. |
| Symptoms | File encryption by the ransomware is performed by means of the AES-256 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .atek extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Igal, Omfl, Booa |
| Atek Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Atek Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now filled with infections comparable to the Atek ransomware. For example, this specific danger is generally similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging energies have been developed in order to secure the essential data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to generate the specific key for effective information decryption.
Unless the Atek ransomware is still under the advancement process or has actually got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data by hand. Thus, the only working solution to prevent the loss of your important information is to routinely preserve up-to-date backups of all your crucial documents.
Another essential piece of suggestions is to keep the backups on unique storage not connected to your primary PC. For instance, you might keep it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is extremely risky, given that the backup may also be secured by the Atek infection.
Leaks for the Atek ransomware attack.
Atek utilizes numerous courses to infiltrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not certain what specific approach was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the invasion may occur by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily freeware;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites offering free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Atek might camouflage itself as some authentic application, for instance, through the misleading alerts requiring installation of some software application upgrade. This is the most common trick used by the frauds to inject the Atek virus files into the system. In this manner users partially participate in its installation, without clearly comprehending the risk.
Furthermore, the scams might send out unsolicited spam e-mail with difficult notifies encouraging individuals to open suspicious accessories or click on some download links, for instance, those motivating individuals to open certain pictures, text files, tax files and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links might basically damage the system. Fake Acrobat Reader update alerts may result in the Atek ransomware seepage. Likewise, downloading the split software might in addition include the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Atek might take place through some Trojan horses that might be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent or perhaps consent.
Avoiding the Atek injection.
Obviously, there is no outright guarantee that your computer will be always devoid of any malware attacks, however, we wish to share some helpful ideas with you to make it much safer. Make sure to pay extremely close attention while searching the web and specifically while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, especially if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer may likewise include some other additional apps in the package. These extra applications may be very destructive. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in general to be constantly effectively updated.
It is rather logical that downloading cracked apps is unlawful, nevertheless, in addition, such unapproved programs use might likewise bring serious damage to your PC. Hence, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the truth that your current anti-virus did not protect the system from the Atek ransomware is an excellent factor for you to reevaluate your choices and switch to another program that can render the protecting functions on a better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Atek text file:
ATTENTION! Don't worry, you can return all your files! All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key. The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you. This software will decrypt all your encrypted files. What guarantees you have? You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free. But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information. You can get and look video overview decrypt tool: https://we.tl/t-2P5WrE5b9f Price of private key and decrypt software is $980. Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490. Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment. Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours. To get this software you need write on our e-mail: restorealldata@firemail.cc Reserve e-mail address to contact us: gorentos@bitmessage.ch Our Telegram account: @datarestore
Screenshot of files with “.atek” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Atek ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can download GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:
2. Double-click on the setup file.
When setup file has finished downloading, double-click on the setup-antimalware-ag.exe file to install GridinSoft Anti-Malware on your computer.
An User Account Control asking you about to allow GridinSoft Anti-Malware to make changes to your device. So, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.
4. Wait for the GridinSoft Anti-Malware scan to complete.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically start scanning your computer for Win Speedup 2018 and other malicious programs. This process can take a 20-30 minutes, so we suggest you periodically check on the status of the scan process.
5. Click on “Clean Now”.
When the scan has completed, you will see the list of infections that GridinSoft Anti-Malware has detected. To remove them click on the “Clean Now” button in right corner.
Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore atek files
You can download Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:
- Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
- Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
- By default, the decryptor will pre-populate the locations to decrypt with the currently connected drives and network drives. Additional locations can be added using the Add” button.
- Decryptors typically offer various options depending on the particular malware family. The available options are located in the Options tab and can be enabled or disabled there. You can find a detailed list of the available Options below.
- After you have added all the locations you want to decrypt to the list, click the “Decrypt” button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files
- The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your personal records, you can save it by clicking the “Save log” button. You can also copy it straight to your clipboard to paste it into emails or forum posts if you are asked to.
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