If you are reading this page because your organization is currently under a ransomware attack, stop and call us immediately at 919-348-4912. Our emergency response team is available 24/7 and can begin helping you within minutes. Every moment you spend trying to handle this alone is a moment the attack could be spreading deeper into your network. Do not pay the ransom without speaking to experts first. Do not turn off your systems unless directed to do so. Call us now.

For those researching ransomware removal services before an attack occurs, you are making a smart investment of your time. Understanding what ransomware removal involves, who can help, and what to expect from the process will save critical time and reduce chaos if your organization ever faces this devastating threat. Petronella Technology Group has removed ransomware and restored operations for organizations across the Research Triangle and beyond, bringing more than two decades of cybersecurity and digital forensics experience to every engagement.

What Happens During a Ransomware Attack

Understanding the anatomy of a ransomware attack helps explain why professional removal is essential. Modern ransomware attacks are not simple malware infections. They are sophisticated, multi-stage intrusions that typically unfold over days or weeks before the encryption payload is deployed.

Initial Access: The attacker gains entry to your network, usually through a phishing email, an exploited vulnerability in a public-facing application, or stolen credentials. This initial foothold often goes undetected.

Lateral Movement: Once inside, the attacker moves through your network, escalating privileges and mapping your environment. They identify critical systems, backup infrastructure, and valuable data stores.

Data Exfiltration: Before encrypting your data, most modern ransomware groups steal copies of your sensitive files. This stolen data is used as additional leverage in double extortion schemes, where the attacker threatens to publish your data if the ransom is not paid.

Backup Destruction: The attacker targets your backup systems, deleting or encrypting backup copies to eliminate your recovery options and increase pressure to pay.

Encryption: The attacker deploys the ransomware payload, encrypting files across your network simultaneously. Operations grind to a halt, and ransom notes appear on your screens.

Our Ransomware Removal Process

Step 1: Emergency Assessment

When you contact us, our first priority is understanding the scope and severity of the attack. We gather critical information: what systems are affected, when the attack was discovered, what ransomware variant is involved, whether backups are available, and what actions have already been taken. This rapid assessment informs our response strategy.

Step 2: Containment

We immediately work to stop the spread of the ransomware. This may involve isolating affected network segments, disconnecting compromised systems, blocking malicious IP addresses, and disabling compromised accounts. Our containment actions are precise and targeted, designed to stop the attack without causing unnecessary additional damage.

Step 3: Forensic Analysis

We conduct a forensic investigation to determine how the attacker gained access, what systems were compromised, what data was accessed or exfiltrated, and whether any backdoors or persistence mechanisms were installed. This analysis is critical for ensuring complete removal and preventing re-infection. We preserve forensic evidence for potential law enforcement investigation and insurance claims.

Step 4: Ransomware Identification and Decryption Assessment

We identify the specific ransomware variant and assess decryption options. For some ransomware families, free decryption tools are available through resources like the No More Ransom project. We evaluate all available decryption options before considering any ransom payment. If decryption tools are available, we use them to recover your data without paying the attacker.

Step 5: Eradication

We methodically remove all traces of the ransomware and the attacker from your environment. This includes removing malware, closing backdoors, resetting compromised credentials, and eliminating persistence mechanisms. Incomplete eradication can result in re-infection, which is why this phase requires the thoroughness that only experienced professionals can provide.

Step 6: Recovery

We restore your systems and data using the best available option, whether that is backup restoration, decryption, or a combination of approaches. We bring systems back online in a controlled, prioritized manner, starting with the most critical business functions. We verify data integrity throughout the recovery process and test systems thoroughly before returning them to production.

Step 7: Hardening and Prevention

After recovery, we implement security improvements to prevent future attacks. This includes patching the vulnerability that allowed initial access, implementing additional security controls, strengthening backup procedures, and providing recommendations for ongoing security improvements.

The Ransom Payment Decision

One of the most difficult decisions an organization faces during a ransomware attack is whether to pay the ransom. This decision involves technical, financial, legal, and ethical considerations. We provide objective, expert guidance to help you make an informed decision:

• Recovery options: We assess all available recovery options, including backups and free decryption tools, before any ransom payment is considered.
• Decryption reliability: Even if a ransom is paid, there is no guarantee that the decryption tool will work. Some ransomware groups provide unreliable decryptor software, and data may be corrupted or only partially recoverable.
• Legal considerations: Ransom payments may have legal implications, particularly if the attacker is on a government sanctions list. We help you understand the legal landscape.
• Future targeting: Organizations that pay ransoms may be targeted again, as they have demonstrated willingness to pay.
• Insurance coverage: We work with your cyber insurance carrier to understand what is covered and to ensure compliance with policy requirements.

Working with Cyber Insurance

If you have a cyber insurance policy, it may cover many of the costs associated with ransomware removal, including incident response services, forensic investigation, data recovery, legal fees, and business interruption losses. We have extensive experience working with cyber insurance carriers and can help you:

• Notify your carrier promptly to comply with policy requirements
• Provide the documentation and evidence the carrier needs
• Coordinate with the carrier's breach coach and claims adjuster
• Prepare the proof of loss and other required documentation

Do Not Face Ransomware Alone

A ransomware attack is one of the most stressful events a business can experience. The decisions you make in the first hours will determine the outcome. Do not try to handle it alone. Do not pay without understanding your options. Call the experts.

If you are under attack right now, call our 24/7 Emergency Response Line at 919-348-4912. Our team is standing by to help you contain the threat, recover your data, and get your business back on its feet.

For proactive ransomware protection, learn about our ransomware prevention services designed to stop attacks before they start.