What is a .AURORA file?
An .AURORA file is a type of file that has been locked by a harmful software known as the Aurora Virus. This virus is a form of ransomware, which means it takes your files hostage and asks for money to unlock them. The Aurora Virus usually gets into a computer through a deceptive email attachment, often disguised as a regular .DOC file. Once opened, the virus activates and starts to encrypt various files on your computer, such as video files (.WMV, .MP4), spreadsheets (.XLSX), or documents (.PDF). It uses a very strong encryption method (2048 bit RSA key) to lock these files, making them inaccessible.
The encrypted files are renamed with the .AURORA extension, indicating that they have been encrypted. For example, a video file named "family.mp4" would be changed to "family.mp4.aurora". Along with encrypting files, the virus creates a ransom note in a .TXT file, usually named "HOW_TO_DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES.txt". This note explains that your files have been encrypted and gives instructions on how to pay a ransom, typically in bitcoin, to get your files back.
Opening .AURORA files isn't straightforward because they are encrypted. The primary way to potentially restore these files is by using system restore tools or backup copies if available. It's important to note that paying the ransom does not guarantee that your files will be decrypted and restored. Therefore, it's recommended to focus on prevention, such as using reliable antivirus software and being cautious with email attachments, and to consider professional help from cybersecurity experts if affected by such ransomware.
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