How to remove Hero Ransomware and decrypt .hero77 files

What is Hero Ransomware

Hero Ransomware is a malicious program that belongs to the Proton ransomware family, designed to encrypt user files and demand ransom for decryption. During an attack, it appends infected files with the extension .hero77, which also includes the attacker’s email address. For example, a file named document.docx would be renamed to document.docx.[hero77@cock.li].hero77. This encryption process is sophisticated, as it employs strong cryptographic algorithms that are difficult to break without the decryption key, which is uniquely generated for each victim. Once the encryption is complete, the ransomware displays a ransom note in a text file named #Read-for-recovery.txt, along with altering the desktop wallpaper with instructions to contact the attacker. The note lacks specific details about the encryption or ransom demands, only providing email addresses for contact.

Unfortunately, there are currently no decryption tools available for decrypting .hero77 files without the involvement of the attackers. Victims are advised against paying the ransom, as this does not guarantee file recovery. Cybercriminals often take the money without providing any decryption solution. The best way to recover files is from a backup created before the infection. If no backups exist, file recovery using forensic data recovery tools like Recuva might be possible in rare cases, though success varies. Users are encouraged to follow best security practices, like maintaining frequent backups and using reliable antivirus software to prevent future infections. It’s also essential to disconnect infected systems from the network immediately to prevent further spread and to report ransomware incidents to relevant authorities as part of broader efforts to track and combat cybercrime.

How Hero Ransomware infects computers

Hero Ransomware, part of the Proton ransomware family, primarily infiltrates computers through deceptive methods such as phishing emails and malicious attachments. Often disguised as legitimate documents or software updates, these emails trick users into downloading and executing the ransomware. Once activated, Hero begins encrypting files on the victim’s system, appending the “.hero77” extension to compromised files. The ransomware can also propagate through untrusted download sources, such as peer-to-peer networks and unofficial websites, where users might inadvertently download infected files. Additionally, the malware may spread via network vulnerabilities, attacking systems that lack proper security protocols. To mitigate the risk of infection, it’s crucial to maintain updated security software, practice cautious browsing habits, and educate users on recognizing phishing attempts.

1. Download Hero Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .hero77 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 Hero Ransomware

Hero Ransomware files:


#Read-for-recovery.txt
{randomname}.exe


Hero Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .hero77 files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .hero77 files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

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 .hero77 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 Hero 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 .hero77 files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the 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.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a 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 a 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 an 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 Hero Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

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.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

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. Hero 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.

Download MailWasher Pro