How to remove BlackDream Ransomware and decrypt .BlackDream files

What is BlackDream Ransomware

BlackDream Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts data on a victim’s computer and demands payment for its decryption. It was discovered by researchers while investigating new malware submissions to VirusTotal. The ransomware appends a unique ID, the cybercriminals’ email address, and the .BlackDream extension to the filenames of encrypted files. For example, a file initially named 1.jpg would appear as 1.jpg.[G7H9L6ZA].[Blackdream01@zohomail.eu].BlackDream. After the encryption process is completed, a ransom note titled ReadME-Decrypt.txt is dropped. BlackDream ransomware uses an unspecified file encryption method. The note reassures the victim that their files have not been damaged but have been encrypted. It warns that seeking aid with recovery outside the attackers (i.e., using third-party tools or services) may render the data undecryptable. The note implies that decryption will require paying a ransom in Bitcoin cryptocurrency, although the exact sum is not specified.

There are currently no known decryption tools available for this ransomware. The only solution to recover encrypted files is to restore them from a backup if one is available. It is not recommended to pay the ransom, as there is no guarantee that the necessary decryption keys or software will be provided, and paying supports illegal activity. After the ransomware is removed, you can attempt to recover the files using Stellar Data Recovery or another data recovery tool. However, the success of the recovery process can depend on many factors, including the specific ransomware type, the encryption method used, and the condition of the infected files.

How BlackDream Ransomware infects computers

BlackDream ransomware infects computers predominantly through several methods, including drive-by downloads, spam mail, untrustworthy download channels (e.g., unofficial and free file-hosting sites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.), illegal software activation (“cracking”) tools, fake updates, online scams, and malvertising. In many cases, victims themselves open ransomware executables since these files are usually disguised as regular content.

1. Download BlackDream Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .BlackDream files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like BlackDream Ransomware

BlackDream Ransomware files:


ReadME-Decrypt.txt
{randomname}.exe


BlackDream Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .BlackDream files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .BlackDream files. Download it here:

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .BlackDream files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with BlackDream Ransomware and removed from your computer you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .BlackDream files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like BlackDream Ransomware , in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Dashboard

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Alert

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Blocked

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. BlackDream Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.