Internet Security Tips

PROM ransomware is a form of malware that employs encryption to hold the victim’s files hostage until a ransom is paid. It prevents its victims from accessing their system or data and demands ransom payment for decryption. Continue reading this post to know how to remove it from your computer without too much hassle.

What is PROM Ransomware?

PROM is the name of a malicious program classified as ransomware. After successfully infiltrating the targeted system, it uses RSA and AES encryption algorithms to lock all types of user data (e.g., photos, videos, audios, work documents, archives, etc.) and demands a huge sum of money in the form of Bitcoin cryptocurrency to restore access.

During the encryption process, it appends the “.PROM[prometheushelp@mail.ch]” extension to the name of each compromised file. For example, it renames a file originally named “1.mp3” to “1.mp3.PROM[prometheushelp@mail.ch]”, “2.mp3” to “2.mp3.PROM[prometheushelp@mail.ch]”, and so on.

Once the files are encrypted, PROM ransomware generates two ransom notes (“RESTORE_FILES_INFO.hta” and “RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt”) to provide victims with details, such as the price of a decryption key, email address of ransomware authors, payment instructions, etc.

PROM Ransomware: Distribution Techniques

Over the last couple of decades, cybercriminals have used and developed several diverse and sophisticated ways to infect users with an array of malware strains. PROM ransomware is no different in the sense that it employs most of the same tactics used in other malware attacks.

Following are the most common ways that hackers use to deliver ransomware variants.

• MalSpam or malicious spam
• Malvertising or malicious advertising
• Drive-by download
• Fake software updates
• Pornographic sites
• Peer-to-Peer (P2P) networks
• unpatched/ out-of-date software

How to Remove PROM Ransomware?

To delete PROM ransomware and other dangerous computer infections without going through several manual steps, you can try installing and running a complete scan with a powerful anti-malware software on the compromised system.

In addition, you’re advised to keep the following cybersecurity tips in mind to protect yourself against ransomware attacks and other forms of cybercrimes.

• Keep your web browsers, apps, and operating system updated at all times.
• Avoid opening or downloading unexpected or suspicious email attachments.
• Store a backup copy of your important files or folders to external storage devices.
• Create strong and hack-proof passwords.
• Be careful while downloading software from third-party sources.