New Tool Helps Users Decrypt Files Affected by Akira Ransomware

Akira ransomware hasn’t even been active for six months yet, and it’s already made a pretty significant impact. From real estate to daycare centers, Akira ransomware is targeting several industries and they don’t care who you are as long as they’re getting paid.

Thankfully, cybersecurity firm Avast has released a free decryptor tool for Akira ransomware that allows victims of the harmful cybersecurity threat the ability to recover their files for free without having to fork over a boatload of cash to the crooks.

In order for the decryptor tool to work, you’ll need to provide a sample of the Akira-encrypted file, and also a copy of the data file before it was affected by the attack.

Avast notes that it is “extremely important” that you choose files that are not only as large as possible, but also exactly the same size. Although they offer a 32-bit version, researchers also recommend using the 64-bit version of the tool as the process for cracking the password requires a large amount of memory.

At the time of this post’s writing, there is only a Windows version of the tool. Avast researchers say that a Linux version is in the works. For now, Linux users can use the Windows version of the tool to decrypt their files.

It is important to note that those affected by Akira ransomware should still be cautious. Although users may be able to decrypt and regain access to their files, that doesn’t mean their troubles are over. Your files have also been stolen – and a likely up for sale on the dark web as we speak.

With the creation of this decryptor tool, Akira cyber criminals are likely working tirelessly to figure out where the vulnerabilities in their code lie that allowed researchers to so quickly be able to create a tool to help victims out. Until they figure it out, take advantage of Avast’s free decryptor and get your files back!

Story via Tripwire