TurkStatik Ransomware

TurkStatik Ransomware encrypts files and adds the “.ciphered” extension to their original names. This threat can encrypt over 100 different types of files, including DOC, ZIP, RAR, MPG, AVI, or PDF, and it can encrypt them in all drives, including partitions, USB drives, and the network. Needless to say, this malware can make a huge mess, but it is not all bad news. A free decryptor called “TurkStatic Decryptor” has already been created by malware researchers, and if you can download it onto the infected machine, there is a good chance that all of the corrupted files will be restored. Of course, you want to be cautious about the tool you install because fake lookalikes could always be created by virtual schemers or even malware distributors. Speaking of distribution, do you know how the ransomware got in? Do you know how to secure your operating system in the future? Do you know how to remove TurkStatik Ransomware? These and other questions are answered in this report, so keep reading.

The exact method of distribution that TurkStatik Ransomware uses is unknown, but it is possible that the attackers behind this threat could be using different methods at once. For example, they could use leaked email addresses to spread the installer as a document file. They could also exploit your system’s vulnerabilities – for example, within remote access tools – to drop the infection without you knowing about it. Even other infections could be employed to spread the dangerous file-encryptor. It is quite important to figure out how TurkStatik Ransomware got in, because that might determine whether or not you can delete the infection manually. Although we can provide you with a list of potential locations where the launcher file might be, if you cannot find it, it is unlikely that you will be able to perform manual removal. Of course, the launcher is not the only thing you need to delete. Our researchers have found that the threat creates a %TEMP%\windows.dll file, which is likely to include a unique identifier number. Also, in every location that contains encrypted files, the ransomware drops “README_DONT_DELETE.txt.”

The text file dropped by TurkStatik Ransomware displays a message in Turkish, and so it is likely that the threat is specifically targeted at Turkish-speaking Windows users. The message informs that the only ones who can restore files are the attackers themselves. Since a free decryptor already exists, we know that this is a lie. Unfortunately, some victims might be scared into thinking that they need to contact the attackers via decservice@mail.ru and recoverydbservice@protonmail.com and then pay a ransom in return for decryption services. The message also declares that victims only have 24 hours to fulfill the attackers’ demands. After this period, files are supposed to become unrecoverable. Hopefully, you have not exposed yourself to cybercriminals behind TurkStatik Ransomware by sending them a message. If you have, make sure you are extra cautious about the emails you receive, because you might end up receiving scam emails, some of which could contain malware launchers. If you have paid the ransom, it is most likely that your files have remained encrypted. Delete the threat and look for a free decryptor.

Whether you can replace the corrupted files with your own backups, or you use a free decryptor, you need to delete TurkStatik Ransomware as soon as possible. We suggest doing that before you do anything else. As mentioned before, the threat can encrypt everything, even external drives if they are connected to the machine, and so you do not want to risk your backups. Hopefully, you are ready to remove TurkStatik Ransomware, and your only task is to choose the right option. Perhaps you are thinking about removing this infection manually? As we discussed earlier, you will not succeed unless you can locate the launcher file. So, if that is not an option for you, maybe you should install anti-malware software? We believe that all Windows users should have this software installed because, without it, the operating system will always remain vulnerable to malware attacks. So, if you want to have your system protected, and the dangerous ransomware removed automatically, we suggest installing anti-malware software now.

TurkStatik Ransomware Removal

1. Delete all copies of the ransom note file, README_DONT_DELETE.txt.
2. Tap Win+E keys to launch the Windows Explorer window.
3. Type %TEMP% into the quick access field at the top and tap the Enter key.
4. If a file named windows.dll is in the directory, Delete it.
5. Check the following directories and Delete recently downloaded, unfamiliar, suspicious files:
   • %TEMP%
   • %USERPROFILE%\Desktop
   • %USERPROFILE%\Downloads
6. Exit Windows Explorer and then quickly Empty Recycle Bin.
7. Install a legitimate malware scanner to inspect your system for malware leftovers.