What is PencilCry Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software which infects the victim's computer, encrypting all their data. The malware then presents the user with a message to encrypt the files with an unlock code, and demands payment for giving them back.

About PencilCry Ransomware

PencilCry is a ransomware-type program. It encrypts data (renders files inaccessible) and demands victims pay a ransom - to decrypt it. Compromised files are appended with a ".pencilcry" extension. For example, a file initially titled "1.jpg" would appear as "1.jpg.pencilcry", "2.jpg" as "2.jpg.pencilcry", and so on. After the encryption process is complete, ransom notes are created/displayed on a new desktop wallpaper and a pop-up window. The latter is both in English and Portuguese.

The ransom note in the pop-up informs victims that they have to pay to decrypt their data. Unlike other ransom notes, the Pop-up is somewhat demanding. Victims are not given a deadline or time frame of how long they have before losing access to their data, leaving them without any understanding of when it will actually happen. The cryptocurrency being offered gives victims a sense of urgency and makes it difficult for them to deny the guilt of what has happened. A deadline is set - if 120 hours have passed by with no payment made, all decryption ceases.

How to Protect Your Computer From Ransomware

One way to protect data from ransomware is by using reputable antivirus software. The software keeps the computer's operating system clean and free of malicious code through regular scans, preventing it from ever getting hacked in the first place. Additionally, the software is able to detect and remove malware that is possibly already on your computer such as ransomware with its real-time protection.

1) Install antivirus software.
2) Keep the OS up to date.
3) Don't click on suspicious links.
4) Use an adblocker for your browsers