Ransomware File Encryption & Boot Lockout

What is RANSOMWARE-ENCRYPTION-ATTACK?

This critical-severity issue affects the malware/security. This diagnosis detects ransomware-like active encryption behavior on system folders, resulting in encrypted document extensions, ransom notes (.txt/.html), and locked administrative panels. Typical causes include executing unverified attachments or cracked software payloads, compromised Server Message Block (SMB) exposures on local networks and outdated security configuration allowing remote code execution. Use the steps below to track down and fix the cause.

Common Causes

• Executing unverified attachments or cracked software payloads.
• Compromised Server Message Block (SMB) exposures on local networks.
• Outdated security configuration allowing remote code execution.

Step-by-Step Fix Guide

• 1
  Disconnect the affected computer immediately from local networks and the internet to halt spreading.

  This step, "Disconnect the affected computer immediately from local networks and the internet to halt spreading.", specifically rules out compromised Server Message Block (SMB) exposures on local networks.

• 2
  Boot the system into Safe Mode with Command Prompt to bypass startup malware vectors.

  For lingering RANSOMWARE-ENCRYPTION-ATTACK cases, "Boot the system into Safe Mode with Command Prompt to bypass startup malware vectors." is worth running through.

• 3
  Trigger a Microsoft Defender Offline scan to locate and clean persistent trojans.

  "Trigger a Microsoft Defender Offline scan to locate and clean persistent trojans." handles an edge case some users report with RANSOMWARE-ENCRYPTION-ATTACK.

• 4
  Restore decrypted documents exclusively from a secure, isolated offline backup source.

  Try "Restore decrypted documents exclusively from a secure, isolated offline backup source." next if the issue persists — it addresses a secondary cause.

Commands & Diagnostics

Frequently Asked Questions