Basilisque Virus Removal Guide (+Decode .basilisque@protonmail_com files) – Locker Ransomware

Basilisque Virus Ransomware

The Basilisque mean a ransomware-type infection. The virus comes from the Locker ransomware family. Basilisque was elaborated specifically to encrypt all major file types. When the file is encrypted people are not able to use them. Basilisque adds the “.basilisque@protonmail_com” extension for each file encrypted by it. For example, the file “myphoto.jpg“, once encrypted by Basilisque , will be renamed into “myphoto.jpg.basilisque@protonmail_com“. As quickly as the encryption is completed, Basilisque places a special text file into every folder containing the encrypted data.

The message given by Basilisque text file asking for the ransom is definitely the like the statements given by other ransomware virus representatives belonging to the Locker type. It literally mentions that the information is encrypted which the only way to restore it is to use a a distinct decryption key. Sadly, this is absolutely true. The kind of cryptography mechanism used by Basilisque is still not correctly examined. Still, it is definitely certain that each victim may be given the specific decryption key, which is absolutely unique. It is impossible to restore the files without the key available.

Another trick of Basilisque is that the victims cannot access to the key. The key is stored on a particular server run by the frauds related to Basilisque ransomware. To get the key and recover the important information people have to pay the ransom.

Nonetheless, regardless of the asked for quantity, people need to keep away from paying the ransom. Cyber frauds are unfair, so they tend to completely disregard what their victims feel about the problem, even when the payment reaches their pockets. This is why paying the ransom normally does not give any positive result and people simply waste their money for absolutely nothing.

We highly encourage that you do not contact these crooks and definitely do not transfer money into their accounts. It is said to admit that there are no utilities able to crack Basilisque ransomware and to recover the data data totally free. Thus, the just right decision is to recover the lost information from the available backup.

Virus Summary

Name	Basilisque Ransomware
File Extension	.basilisque@protonmail_com
Type	Ransomware
Family	Locker
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 and RSA encryption algorithms. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special basilisque@protonmail_com extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution Method	Spam Emails, Email Attachments
Similar Infections	Crypto, Isolated, Fixt
Removal Tool	GridinSoft Anti-Malware

Remember that the web is now overwhelmed with threats that look similar to Basilisque ransomware. It is similar Crypto and many other ransomware-type threats. Malicious programs of such kind are usually elaborated to encrypt crucial data and to set forth the demand prior to the user to pay the ransom. The peculiarity of all such ransomware threats is that all apply a similar algorithm to generate the distinct decryption key for information decryption.

Hence, as long as the ransomware is still being developed or has some hidden bugs, manually recovering the information is just not feasible. The only method to avoid the loss of your crucial information is to frequently create backups of your important information.

Keep in mind that even if you create such backups, they need to be placed into a special storage utility not connect to your main computer. You may use the Memory Stick or external disk drive for this purpose, or refer to the help of the cloud storage. If you keep your backup files on your common system they may be encrypted along with other files, so it’s definitely not a good storage location.

How did ransomware infect my system?

There are numerous methods used by online scams to distribute Basilisque ransom virus. Even though it is uncertain how exactly Basilisque injects your computer, there are some leaks through which it may infiltrate the system:

• integration with third-party software application, especially freeware;
• spam emails from unidentified senders;
• websites rendering free hosting services;
• pirated peer-to-peer (P2P) downloads.

Typically Basilisque ransomware might be presented as some legitimate software, for instance, in the pop-ups advising users to implement some essential software application updates. This is the common trick used by online scams to persuade people into downloading and installing Basilisque infection manually, by ways of their direct participation in the installation process.

Furthermore, the criminals may describe different e-mail spam methods to inject malicious codes into systems. So, they may describe to sending unsolicited spam emails with tricky notifications promoting users to download the attachments or click on certain download links, for example, the ones encouraging users to open some receipts, files, tax reports or invoices.

Needless to mention, opening such files or clicking on such dangerous links may badly damage the system. Fictitious Adobe Flash Player update alerts may result in Basilisque ransom injection. As for the cracked software, these illegally downloaded programs may likewise contain harmful codes resulting in Basilisque secret installation. Lastly, injection of Basilisque may take place by methods of Trojans that privately get injected into the system and set up malicious utilities without the user’s approval.

Is there any way to avoid the injection of Basilisque ransomware?

Despite the fact that there is no 100% guarantee to avoid your computer from getting infected, there are some pieces of suggestions we want to share with with you. First of all, be extremely cautious when you browse the web and particularly while downloading complimentary apps. Keep away from opening suspicious email attachments, especially when the sender of the email is not familiar to you.

Bear in mind that some freeware installers may include other unwanted utilities in the bundle, so they may be destructive. Make certain that your current antivirus software and your entire operating system is always duly updated.

Naturally, downloading pirated software is illegal and may result in essential damage to be made for your system. Hence, stay away from downloading cracked software. You are likewise strongly recommended to reconsider your existing security software and potentially switch to another security solution that can render better services of defending your PC.

Below please find the quotation from the Basilisque text file:

What happened to your files?
All of your files were protected by a strong encryption with AES cbc-128 using Basilisque Locker!
What does this mean?
This means that the structure and data within your files have been irrevocably changed, 
you will not be able to work with them, read them or see them,
it is the same thing as losing them forever, but with our help, you can restore them.
The encryption key and ID are unique to your computer, so you are guaranteed to be able to return your files.
Your unique id: 37c3b87fb83c71471559d3ff73b72ffe
Date of encrypt: Sunday, June 16, 2019 5:29:31 PM UTC
What do I do?
You can buy decryptor from us!
How much is it?
In first 24 hours after encryption - 100$
In three days - 150$
In 12 days - 250$
After(if it is still possible*)  - 500$
But if you want to decrypt few files as a test check the price will be increased by $ 25 for every single file. (This is described in more detail below in FAQ p.3)
*We can delete keys as time passes.
How to buy?
1. First buy the bitcoins for the right amount. How to do this is written below.
2. Contact us by email usernamus@protonmail.com . Specify your ID in the subject.
3. You will get bitcoin wallet to pay.
4. Send bitcoins to wallet address from email(how to buy bitcoins read below in FAQ p.4)
5. When you pay, write to us again(don't forget to enter your ID in the subject of letter if you start new conversation)
6. You will get decryptor and instructions for it after you payment get 1 confirmation on blockchain
(this usually takes about 1 hour, but sometimes(rarely) it can take up to 24 hours).
7. If you don't get reply in 24 hours after you get payment or after 4 hours after you payment get confirmation or after 4 hours after first message(wallet ask) please contact us one of different ways listed in FAQ(2 part). 
FAQ:
1.How much time do I have to pay for decryption?
You have 12 days to pay after you files was encrypted. Maybe after that you can also buy the decryptor, but maybe not, cause keys could be deleted after some time since the end of the term.
But remember - The faster you pay, the cheaper it will be. 
The number of bitcoins for payment you can calc here https://www.coingecko.com/en/coins/bitcoin
Keep in mind that some exchangers delay payment for 1-3 days!** Also keep in mind that Bitcoin is a very volatile currency, its rate can change very quickly. Therefore, we recommend that you make payment within a few hours.
But if you are mistaken for a couple of dollars - no big deal.
**In that case you can ask for discount(If exchanger caused a delay in payment). For this you need to write to us immediately after you have learned about it and provide screenshots confirming your exchange
2.How to contact you?
a) Main contact is email - basilisque@protonmail.com . (Backup option: basilisque@secmail.pro )
b) Second contact is  bitmessage ( https://bitmessage.org/wiki/Main_Page ) - BM-NBaT69FJpQ2V8FVskyw7RdJ5FPvnRtcZ
Email is fastest, but bitmessage is the most reliable. 
If you not get answer after 4 hours after first message(wallet ask) please use another contact. This may be cause email is dead. But we are sure that nothing will happen with bitmessage and you can get an answer there anyway.
3.What are the guarantees that I can decrypt my files after paying the ransom?
We can decrypt some test files for you if you don't believe us. 
But it will raise the amount of ransom by $25 for every decrypted file and maximum time to pay will be decreased from 12 to 3 days. If you don\'t pay in 3 days, than you ransom will be increased to 500$ or keys will be deleted.
Important! The size of each file must be less than 5mb. 
You will get uncrypted files back in few hours.
After this procedure you can make sure that we can decrypt all your files after paying the ransom. 
We have no reason to deceive you after receiving the ransom, since we are not barbarians and moreover it will harm our business.
A few examples:
a)You paying in first 24 hours(100$) after encryption and don\'t want decrypt test files = 100$
b)You paying on 2nd(150$) day after ecryption and want to decrypt 1 test file(25$) = 175$
c)You paying on 4th(250$) day after encryption and want to decrypt 2 test file(25$*2) =  300$
d)You paying on 13th(500$) day after encryption(if it possible) and want to decrypt 3 test files(25$*3) = 575$
4.How do I pay the ransom?
After decrypting the test files, you will see the amount of payment in bitcoins and a bitcoin wallet for payment. 
Depending on your location, you can pay the ransom in different ways. 
Here are some links:
https://localbitcoins.net - buy bitcoins in most countries with huge number of ways.
https://buy.blockexplorer.com - payment by bank card 
https://www.buybitcoinworldwide.com - links for exhcanges in other countries.
https://paxful.com - like localbitcoins.
In many countries there are Bitcoins ATM where you can buy bitcoins by cash in few minutes. Other good way is buy amazon card and exchange it for bitcoins. If you encounter difficulties write to us, we can suggest options. But we have no other payment methods except bitcoins.
Also you can use Google to find information on how to buy bitcoins in your country or use the help of more experienced friends. 
5.How can I decrypt my files?
After confirmation of payment (it usually takes 1 hours, maximum 24 hours) you will get letter with decryptor and instructions for it.
WARNING!
Using third-party solutions can permanently destroy your files.
And the use of someone else’s decryptor will destroy them with a probability of 100 percent.
About Bitcoins:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitcoin

Screenshot of files with “.basilisque@protonmail_com” extension added by the ransomware:

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Basilisque ransomware from your computer

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can download GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:

  GridinSoft Anti-Malware

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.