What is a .CONTI file?
File Extension: .CONTI File Type: Conti Ransomware Encrypted File Description: A file that ends with the .conti extension has been locked by a harmful software known as CONTI ransomware. This ransomware uses a very strong encryption method, combining AES-256 and RSA-4096 keys, to lock files, making them inaccessible without a specific decryption key. Typically, the files affected could be documents, photos, videos, and backup files. For instance, a file originally named "photo.jpg" would be renamed to "photo.jpg.conti" after encryption.
Programs to Open This File: It is important to note that regular software cannot open a .conti file because it is encrypted. The primary method to potentially restore these files is through a system restore if backups were made before the infection. However, this does not decrypt the files but may restore them from a backup state.
More Information: CONTI ransomware is malicious software operated by a group of anonymous cybercriminals. It is available for purchase on the dark web, allowing other criminals to use it to carry out attacks. This ransomware was first noticed in December 2019 and became widely recognized by May 2020. It is considered a successor to Ryuk ransomware and mainly targets governmental bodies, although it can affect any user.
How Computers Get Infected: Computers typically get infected with CONTI ransomware through deceptive methods such as: - Email attachments that contain the malware. - Downloads from torrent websites that are infected. - Clicking on malicious advertisements online.
Once a user inadvertently triggers the ransomware by any of these means, it activates and begins to encrypt files on the computer.
Impact of CONTI Ransomware: After encryption, CONTI ransomware leaves a ransom note in each affected directory, usually named CONTI_README.txt, which explains that the files have been encrypted and demands a ransom to unlock them. It is strongly advised not to pay the ransom as this does not guarantee the recovery of the files and further encourages the criminals.
Preventive Measures: To protect against such threats, it is crucial to: - Avoid opening email attachments from unknown sources. - Refrain from downloading files from unreliable websites. - Keep software and antivirus programs up-to-date. - Regularly back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage that is not always connected to your main network.
If your files have already been encrypted by CONTI ransomware, consulting with cybersecurity professionals for
Verification
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