Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension)

Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension) is similar to Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation) and other malicious file-encrypting applications from Dharma Ransomware family. It is capable of deleting shadow copies, which might make it impossible to restore files once they get encrypted by the malware. For users who want to get their data back, hackers behind the threat advise purchasing decryption tools from them. The problem is that there are no reassurances they have such tools or that they will deliver them. Because of this, we advise removing Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension) instead. Victims who have no intention in contacting the infection’s creators should close the displayed ransom note and erase Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension) as shown in the instructions below. Also, the malicious application can be deleted with an antimalware tool, so all that is left is to pick a trustworthy program.

In the text, we would like to present more information about Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension). To start with, we should explain where this threat could come from. One of the most popular ways used in distributing such infections are malicious emails and software installers. This content can be often received with Spam or emails from untrustworthy sources and various file-sharing web pages.

Naturally, to keep your computer safe, we recommend being more careful in the future. If you receive doubtful email attachments, they should be checked with a reliable antimalware tool. In case the email provides links to some sites and urges to click them, you should not do so until you are one hundred percent sure the links and the email’s sender can be trusted. Always remember that hackers can mimic messages from lots of well-known companies (e.g., Dropbox), so you have to inspect emails very carefully. As for malicious software installers, you could avoid them by downloading applications you need only from legitimate sources.

To settle in, Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension) might create a couple of its installer’s copies in the %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup and %WINDIR%\System32 directories. Because of this, the malware might be able to restart with the operating system. While the infection may not do any damage to the already encrypted files, keep in mind it could encrypt new data. Also, it would show its ransom note again. This annoying behavior is another reason why we recommend removing the malicious application with no hesitation. The malware should create a couple of other files listed in the deletion instructions located below.

The first thing Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension) ought to do after settling in is locate all targeted files, which could be various pictures, documents, photos, music/video files, and so on. Then it should start encrypting the mentioned data bit by bit. During this process, the targeted files should gain a second extension, e.g., picture.jpg.id-{unique ID number}.[admin@decryption.biz].bkpx. Moreover, shortly before displaying its ransom note, the malicious application is supposed to remove shadow copies.

Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension) ransom note should be called FILES ENCRYPTED.txt or similarly. After opening it, victims ought to find a message created by the hackers behind the malware. It says the user can get decryption tools if he only pays a ransom. Apparently, to learn how to make a payment or where to transfer the money, the threat’s developers ask contacting them via email. You may think you have no other choice, but you should first decide whether your data is worth the sum they may demand to pay. Not to mention, you should think if you are willing to take the risk. As you see, there is a chance the hackers may not bother sending you the needed decryption tools.

If you think eliminating Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension) is the best course of action, we recommend following the instructions located at the end of this report. On the other hand, if you think the task is a bit too challenging for you, we advise installing a reliable security tool. It could not only help you clean the system, but also keep it safe from threats you could yet encounter.

Eliminate Dharma Ransomware (.bkpx extension)

1. Click Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
2. Choose Task Manager and select Processes.
3. Find a process belonging to the threat.
4. Mark it and click End Task.
5. Exit Task Manager.
6. Click Win+E.
7. Find these paths:
   %TEMP%
   %USERPROFILE%\Downloads
   %USERPROFILE%\Desktop
8. Locate the malicious application’s launcher.
9. Right-click it and select Delete.
10. Find these locations:
    %WINDIR%\System32
    %APPDATA%
11. Locate files called Info.hta, right-click them and select Delete.
12. Find these folders:
    %HOMEDRIVE%
    %PUBLIC%\Desktop
    %USERPROFILE%\Desktop
13. Search for text files named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt, right-click them and select Delete.
14. Find these specific Startup directories:
    %WINDIR%\System32
    %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
15. Find suspicious executable files, e.g., file.exe; right-click them and choose Delete.
16. Exit File Explorer.
17. Press Win+R.
18. Insert Regedit and click Enter.
19. Find the given directory: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
20. Locate a value name dropped by the threat, e.g., file.exe.
21. Right-click this value name and press Delete.
22. Exit Registry Editor.
23. Empty your Recycle Bin.
24. Restart the computer.