Imploder Ransomware: An Overview and Removal Guide

What is Imploder Ransomware?

Imploder is a dangerous ransomware strain that encrypts files on the infected system and demands a ransom payment for their decryption. Discovered through new submissions to VirusTotal, Imploder targets victims by appending the “.imploder” extension to encrypted files, such as “1.jpg” becoming “1.jpg.imploder” and “2.png” becoming “2.png.imploder.”

Once the encryption is completed, Imploder changes the desktop wallpaper and shows a warning pop-up message that threatens permanent data loss if the victim does not comply with the malicious demands. These messages claim that no decryption is possible and further warn victims not to reboot or shut down their computers, as doing so would lead to irreversible damage.

How Does Imploder Ransomware Work?

Imploder encrypts files and places a ransom note on the desktop wallpaper as well as in a pop-up window (“helpme.bat”). The pop-up message states that there is no way to decrypt files, with the creators of the ransomware claiming they didn’t develop it for financial gain. It goes on to warn victims that any attempt to change file extensions would lead to file corruption. The pop-up also gives a 3-day deadline for payment, after which decryption will be impossible.

The ransomware further disables the Windows Recovery Mode and deletes backup files and Volume Shadow Copies, making it harder for victims to restore their data without external backups.

Symptoms of an Imploder Infection

When infected with Imploder ransomware, victims typically experience the following symptoms:

• Inability to open files that were previously accessible.
• A “.imploder” extension is appended to file names.
• A ransom demand message appears on the desktop and in a pop-up window.
• The system’s wallpaper is changed to display the ransomware’s warning message.
• Potential additional malware or trojans may be installed alongside the ransomware.

Ransom Note: What Victims See

The ransomware presents its message in two forms: on the desktop wallpaper and in a pop-up window.

Wallpaper message:

“WOOPS, YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!
Your important files have been encrypted by a sophisticated ransomware.
CAN I RECOVER MY FILES?
No, you can’t recover your files. There is no decryption tool.
We made this ransomware for no earning purpose, just to destroy your system for fun.
WARNING:
Do not try to reboot or shutdown this system, otherwise the computer will be completely damaged.
Windows recovery mode has been disabled, shadow copies and backup catalog have been deleted, there is no way to escape.”

Pop-up message:

“WOOPS, YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!
All your files, like photos, videos, documents, etc., have been encrypted by Imploder.
CAN I RECOVER MY FILES?
No, there is no way to decrypt your files, we didn’t make this ransomware for earning purpose.
There is no turning back now.
LAST WARNINGS:

1. DO NOT REBOOT OR SHUTDOWN THE SYSTEM, DOING THIS WILL DAMAGE YOUR COMPUTER.
2. DO NOT TRY TO RENAME THE EXTENSION TO THE FILES, IT WILL NOT HELP YOU AND CAUSE PERMANENT CORRUPTION.
   YOU HAVE 3 DAYS TO SUBMIT THE PAYMENT, AFTER THAT, WE WILL NO LONGER PROVIDE DECRYPTION SOFTWARE.”

Ransom Payment and Decryption Tools

Unfortunately, as with most ransomware, decryption is virtually impossible without the cybercriminal’s assistance. Since the creators of Imploder claim that it was not made for profit, paying the ransom is unlikely to result in file recovery. There is no known free decryptor for Imploder at this time.

How to Remove Imploder Ransomware

The first step in removing Imploder ransomware is to eliminate it from the system to stop further encryptions. SpyHunter is an effective tool for detecting and removing this malware, preventing additional damage to your files.

1. Download and Install SpyHunter:
   • Download SpyHunter.
   • Follow the installation prompts to install the tool on your computer.
2. Run a Full System Scan:
   • Open SpyHunter and select “Full Scan.”
   • Allow the program to scan your system thoroughly for any traces of Imploder ransomware or associated threats.
3. Quarantine Detected Malware:
   • Once the scan is complete, SpyHunter will display a list of all detected threats, including Imploder ransomware.
   • Select the threats and click “Quarantine” to prevent them from causing further damage.
4. Remove Threats:
   • After quarantining the malware, click “Remove” to delete all detected threats from your system.
   • SpyHunter may recommend a system restart to complete the removal process.
5. Restore from Backup (if possible):
   • If you have a backup stored on an external device or in the cloud, restore your encrypted files to their previous state.
   • Remember to always store backups in separate locations to avoid losing data during future attacks.

Preventing Future Imploder Infections

To avoid falling victim to ransomware like Imploder, it is crucial to follow these preventive steps:

1. Use Reliable Security Software: Keep a reputable antivirus program like SpyHunter up-to-date to help detect and prevent ransomware infections.
2. Be Cautious of Email Attachments and Links:
   • Avoid opening attachments or clicking on links from unknown senders, especially if they seem suspicious or unsolicited.
   • Do not download files from suspicious websites or unreliable sources.
3. Keep Your System and Software Updated: Ensure that your operating system and software are always up-to-date with the latest security patches to protect against vulnerabilities.
4. Enable Backups:
   • Regularly back up your data to external storage or cloud services that are not directly connected to your computer to protect against file encryption.
   • Make sure your backups are not accessible by ransomware on your system.
5. Use Network Segmentation and Security Best Practices:
   • Implement network segmentation to limit the spread of ransomware across your system or network.
   • Ensure strong security protocols are in place, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and least-privilege access.
6. Disable Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and Other Vulnerabilities: If not necessary, disable remote desktop protocols (RDP) and ensure your system’s ports are secure to prevent attackers from exploiting them.

Conclusion

Imploder ransomware is a dangerous and destructive threat that encrypts files and demands ransom for decryption. Victims should avoid paying the ransom and focus on eliminating the malware from their system using reliable antivirus tools like SpyHunter. Additionally, proactive measures such as frequent backups, cautious email practices, and using updated security software can help protect against future ransomware infections.