Ransomware decryptors tools play a critical role in helping victims recover encrypted data without paying attackers. These tools work by using leaked encryption keys, exploiting algorithmic weaknesses, or applying offline cracking techniques to unlock files.
The global cybersecurity ecosystem has made major progress in this area. The No More Ransom initiative, supported by law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity vendors, and research teams, hosts more than 170 free tools covering over 150 ransomware strains as of 2025. These tools help decrypt files affected by ransomware ranging from legacy LockBit variants to newer evolutions such as RansomHub and BlackCat.
Major security vendors also contribute specialized solutions. Examples include:
- Kaspersky’s Rakhni decryptor for multi-family ransomware unlocking
- Trend Micro decryptors targeting WannaCry and Petya remnants
- Emsisoft’s extensive decryptor library covering Apocalypse, Xorist, and Ryuk derivatives
- AVG and Avast tools that provide strain-specific decryptors with regular updates
However, successful recovery depends on accurate ransomware identification, compatibility checks, and safe execution. Even with advanced decryptors, full recovery is not always guaranteed, especially when ransomware includes data-wiping capabilities.
For best protection, decryptors should be combined with backups, endpoint detection and response (EDR) forensics, and threat intelligence.
10 Best Free Ransomware File Decryptor Tools in 2026
Below are some of the most effective ransomware decryptor tools available today along with their core capabilities.
1. Kaspersky Rakhni Decryptor
Kaspersky Rakhni Decryptor is a free tool designed to decrypt files encrypted by Rakhni ransomware and related families such as Agent.iih.
It contains multiple decryption modules for different ransomware versions. Decryption speed depends on system processing power and available threads. The tool is updated when new Rakhni variants are detected.
Rakhni ransomware often performs checks such as detecting virtual machines before infecting systems, making decryption technically challenging.
Pros
- Low CPU and RAM usage
- Simple interface and configuration options
Cons
- Support responses may take time
- Some technical issues require sending archived files to support
2. Emsisoft Ransomware Decryption Tool
Emsisoft provides a lightweight yet powerful ransomware decryptor collection. It includes tools such as AstraLocker, Cry9, and Hakbit decryptors.
The tool does not delete encrypted files and includes user manuals for easier operation. It also provides anti-ransomware protection features and supports decryption for ransomware families like Xorist.
Pros
- Behavioral ransomware detection
- Strong malware protection performance
Cons
- Limited deep system inspection
- No phone-based customer support
3. McAfee Ransomware Recover
McAfee Ransomware Recover is designed to decrypt files, databases, applications, and other encrypted system objects. The framework is available to the cybersecurity community and allows integration of new decryption logic.
It supports both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows systems and can be updated when new decryption methods are discovered.
Pros
- Free and accessible to security professionals
- Frequently updated with new keys and logic
Cons
- Limited control over internal operations
- Basic user interface
4. 360 Ransomware Decryptor
Originally developed during the Petya and GoldenEye ransomware outbreaks, this tool now supports more than 80 ransomware families using cloud-assisted decryption.
The tool offers a simple process: select files, run scan, and save decrypted files.
Pros
- Works across Windows systems
- Uses GPU power for faster decryption
Cons
- Requires antivirus scan before file transfer
- No portable version available
5. CryptoLocker Decryption Tool
CryptoLocker was one of the most widespread ransomware attacks globally. This decryptor compares encrypted files with stored key databases to recover data.
Historically, hundreds of thousands of users were affected by CryptoLocker attacks.
Pros
- Free to use
- Simple recovery process
Cons
- Not updated for modern ransomware variants
6. Petya Ransomware Decrypt Tool
This tool targets Petya ransomware variants that overwrite the system Master Boot Record (MBR), making systems unbootable.
It supports Red Petya, Green Petya, and GoldenEye variants but does not support NotPetya or PetrWrap.
Pros
- Fast decryption performance
Cons
- Limited variant compatibility
7. PyLocky Ransomware File Decryptor Tool
This open-source decryptor was developed to decrypt files locked by PyLocky ransomware. It requires captured network traffic (PCAP) from the infected system to function properly.
PyLocky ransomware targets European companies and increases ransom demands over time.
Pros
- Free and open-source
- Effective when required data is available
Cons
- Requires captured initial network traffic to work
8. No More Ransomware Project
This initiative was launched by Europol, Dutch Police, and cybersecurity partners to help victims recover data without paying ransom.
It supports over 150 ransomware variants and provides tools in multiple languages. The Crypto Sheriff feature helps identify ransomware types by analyzing uploaded files.
Pros
- Large database of decryptors
- Detailed documentation and usage guides
Cons
- Requires malware removal before tool usage
- Limited to known encryption keys
9. Trend Micro Ransomware File Decryptor
Trend Micro’s decryptor supports around 27 ransomware families. Users can manually select ransomware types or allow the tool to scan and identify them automatically.
The tool also provides step-by-step decryption guides.
Pros
- Advanced filtering and scanning
- Easy identification process
Cons
- Limited ransomware family support
- May only partially recover files in some cases
10. AVG Ransomware Decryption Tool
AVG provides multiple decryptors targeting ransomware families such as Apocalypse, Bart, BadBlock, Crypt888, Legion, SZFLocker, and TeslaCrypt.
The tool scans systems to identify ransomware type and then applies the appropriate decryptor.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Supports multiple ransomware families
Cons
- Limited to supported ransomware types
- Does not support some Windows editions
Final Thoughts
Ransomware decryptors are essential recovery tools but should not be treated as the only line of defense. Since not all ransomware can be decrypted, organizations and individuals should maintain backups, monitor threats actively, and use layered cybersecurity defenses.
Using decryptors together with EDR forensics, threat intelligence, and backup strategies creates a stronger and more resilient ransomware defense approach.
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