Very much like Sarbloh, FOUR, and CADQ, STEEL is a ransomware-type infection that tries to encrypt a victim’s data and demand a ransom to restore access. If you’re curious to learn all there is to know about STEELransomware, then you’ve landed on the right page. Through this STEEL ransomware removal guide, we will tell you about its working methodology, how you get it, and what to do to protect against it.
What is STEEL Ransomware?
STEEL is the name of a malicious program that is designed by cybercriminals to prevent victims from accessing their system or personal files (e.g., images, work documents, archives, multimedia, etc.) that are stored on it until a ransom amount is paid. It uses strong RSA and AES encryption algorithms to hold a victim’s computer or information hostage.
During the encryption process, STEELappends a random four letters extension to the end of all the file names. For instance, a file originally named “1.mp3” would appear something like “1.mp3.TQ9t3” following encryption.
Afterward, like other ransomware viruses, it places a special text file named HOW_TO_RESTORE_FILES.txt (ransom note) at the victim’s desktop and in all folders that contain compromised files.
Usually, the text presented in such ransom notes informs users about the encryption and contains details, such as the email address of ransomware developers, the price of a decryption key/software, payment instructions, etc.
Users are strongly advised to avoid contacting or paying a ransom fee to cyber crooks because there’s no guarantee that they will send a decryption key (or software) once the payment is received.
STEEL Ransomware: Distribution Techniques
There are a number of attack vectors that ransomware-type infections such as this one can exploit to take over targeted computer systems or servers. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Phishing emails
- Exploit Kits
- Fake software updaters
- Pornographic websites
- P2P (Peer-to-Peer) networks
- Flaws of unpatched software and operating systems
How to Remove STEEL Ransomware from PC?
To accomplish a hassle-free removal of STEEL ransomware or any other type of malware infection, we advise running an automatic scan with a powerful anti-malware or antivirus program on the compromised system.
In addition to this, we urge you to follow the below-mentioned safety tips to reduce the attack surface and deter cybercriminals.
- Keep your operating system and apps up-to-date.
- Do not open unexpected or suspicious email attachments.
- Backup your important data to external hard drives.
- Use strong and hack-proof passwords.
