ACEPY Ransomware

ACEPY is a malware threat designed to lock the files of its victims specifically and render them unusable completely. As such, it falls into the ransomware category of threats. This particular strain was first discovered by the cybersecurity researcher Petrovic.

Once deployed and initiated on the targeted computers, the ACEPY Ransomware will proceed to scan the files found there. All that match a list of chosen file types will be subjected to encryption using a strong cryptographic algorithm. Furthermore, each locked file will have '.acepy' appended to its original name.

When all suitable data on the infected system has been locked, the ransomware threat will proceed to deliver a message with instructions from the cybercriminals. The ACEPY Ransomware will display its ransom note in two different ways - inside a Command Prompt (cmd) window as well as a text file named 'ACEPY_README.txt.'

Demands Overview

The message found in both places is identical and extremely short. Indeed, the note leaves out important information, such as the amount of the ransom demanded by the attackers or if they are willing to decrypt several small files for free, a common offer found in most malware threats of this type. Instead, victims of the ACEPY Ransomware are directed towards messaging the 'AcepyRansom@protonmail.com,' supposedly to receive additional instructions on how to receive the decryption key from the hackers. Keep in mind that any communication with cybercriminals could expose users to various additional privacy and security risks.

The entire message left by ACEPY Ransomware is:

'All your files have been encrypted by the Acepy Ransomware!
All your photos, videos, music and documents have been encrypted with the extension “.acepy”.
There’s no way to recover them without the special key. Please contact AcepyRansom@protonmail.com to get it!'