.SKUNK File Extension Removal Guide

.SKUNK File Extension is appended to all files affected by a malicious program called Skunk Ransomware. Unfortunately, if your data was marked this way it is entirely possible you will never get them back. As you see, the malware encrypts them with a secure cryptosystem, which means to decrypt the files you would need a decryption tool. No doubt, Skunk Ransomware’s creators might promise to provide you with such means if you pay a ransom, but in reality, there are no guarantees they will not scam you. Therefore, if you do not want to risk losing your money in vain, we would recommend deleting the .SKUNK File Extension ransomware with our provided removal steps located a bit below this text or a reliable security tool. Also, we invite those who wish to learn more about this malicious program to continue reading this report as further in it we will provide more details.

Like many other similar threats, Skunk Ransomware could be traveling with infected email attachments, malicious software installers, and so on. Thus, to protect the system from such infections, it is extremely important not to launch suspicious data downloaded from untrustworthy file-sharing web pages or received via email. Probably, the safest option would be to either stay away from potentially dangerous files or at least scan them with a reliable antimalware tool before opening them. This way, the antimalware tool could identify malicious components and warn the user about potential risks. Naturally, if you still do not have such a tool, we highly recommend at least consider its installation.

Given, the .SKUNK File Extension ransomware enters the system it should locate all targeted files and begin the encryption process. Our researchers say it can encrypt various file types, for example, pictures, photos, videos, archives, text documents, etc. As explained at the beginning of the text, the affected files should be marked with a specific second extension. For instance, a file named lily.jpg should turn into lily.jpg.skunk. The next malware’s move should be showing you a ransom note on a pop-up window. We noticed the message might claim “All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC.” In a way the .SKUNK File Extension ransomware’s note tells the truth since the computer might not have been infected if it was more protected.

However, users should not let the hackers trick them into thinking the files were encrypted to save them or protect the user’s privacy. Not to mention the suggested “Free decryption as guarantee” does not actually ensure Skunk Ransomware’s developers will keep up to their promise and deliver needed decryption tools. Keep it in mind they could try to extort more money, or you may simply never hear from them ever again. Because of these risks, we would advise against paying the ransom. If you think putting up with any demands would not be wise as well we encourage you to follow the deletion instructions available below or employ a reputable security tool and erase the .SKUNK File Extension ransomware at once. After the malware is gone, it should be safe to upload backup copies that you could use to replace encrypted data, for example, it could be copies stored on cloud storage, external hard drives, other devices, etc.

Get rid of the .SKUNK File Extension ransomware

1. Tap Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
2. Select Task Manager.
3. Locate a particular process belonging to the malware.
4. Mark it and press End Task.
5. Exit Task Manager.
6. Press Win+E.
7. Locate the given directories:
   %TEMP%
   %USERPROFILE%\Desktop
   %USERPROFILE%\Downloads
8. Find a malicious file downloaded before the malware appeared.
9. Right-click the doubtful file and select Delete.
10. Locate the ransom note (how_to_back_files.html).
11. Right-click it and press Delete.
12. Exit File Explorer.
13. Empty your Recycle Bin.
14. Reboot the system.