LockBit 3.0 Black Ransomware
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How to Decrypt .lockbit Files Encrypted by LockBit 3.0 Black Ransomware?

Our LockBit 3.0 Decryptor — Advanced Recovery for Modern Encryption

Our cybersecurity division has engineered a specialized decryptor and workflow for LockBit 3.0 Black, also known as PC Locker 3.0 by Mr.Robot, one of the most sophisticated ransomware strains active in 2024–2025.

This version encrypts files using a hybrid AES-256 and RSA-2048 algorithm and appends a unique 9-character random extension such as .3R9qG8i3Z to each encrypted file. It also drops a ransom note using the same random ID pattern (e.g., 3R9qG8i3Z.README.txt).

Our decryptor has been engineered to:

  • Safely analyze and isolate encrypted samples in a secure sandbox;
  • Detect unique identifiers and encryption patterns specific to each LockBit 3.0 variant;
  • Restore affected data through controlled, logged, and verifiable decryption procedures.

This decryptor operates in both cloud-integrated and offline environments, ensuring compatibility across enterprise networks and isolated systems. Every session starts in read-only verification mode, protecting forensic evidence and system integrity throughout recovery.

Related article: How to Decrypt GandCrab Ransomware (.GDCB) Files Safely and Easily?


How the LockBit 3.0 Decryptor Works?

When samples are received, the decryptor inspects the encrypted headers, identifying the random extension and encryption structure. It cross-references this with a database of known LockBit 3.0 keys, configuration markers, and prior incident fingerprints. Once a match or flaw is found, a Proof-of-Concept (PoC) decryption is run on 1–2 sample files. Upon success, full restoration begins under analyst supervision with automated integrity and progress logs.

Requirements for Decryption:

  • Ransom note (e.g., 3R9qG8i3Z.README.txt)
  • Two to five encrypted file copies (with random 9-character extensions)
  • Administrator access on the recovery host
  • Optional internet connection for cloud-assisted key verification

Also read: How to Decrypt Phantom Ransomware (.Phantom) Files Safely?


Immediate Actions After Detecting a LockBit 3.0 Infection

  1. Isolate affected machines from all networks and external storage. Disconnect shared drives, VPNs, and cloud sync tools immediately.
  2. Preserve encrypted files and ransom notes exactly as they appear; avoid editing, renaming, or deleting any of them.
  3. Collect evidence. Export antivirus alerts, Windows Event Logs, network traces, and any suspicious executables (e.g., .exe files found in Temp folders).
  4. Capture volatile memory (RAM) if possible, as some LockBit variants temporarily hold encryption keys in memory.
  5. Engage a trusted ransomware recovery expert rather than directly contacting the threat actor’s Telegram handle or any provided communication channel.

File Recovery & Decryption Options

Free or Standard Options

Backup Restoration
If isolated backups exist, restore files from a clean copy taken before encryption. Always verify backup integrity through checksum or hash comparison before reconnecting storage devices.

Decryption Tools (for Legacy LockBit Variants)
Older LockBit versions occasionally contained exploitable encryption flaws that allowed decryption. While LockBit 3.0 Black currently has no free decryptor, monitoring resources like No More Ransom may reveal future releases if vulnerabilities are discovered.


Professional & Specialized Solutions

Forensic Decryptor Service
Our analysts begin by performing variant identification and a PoC decryption on small test files. Once confirmed, we initiate full recovery in a controlled, secure environment that ensures data integrity.

Ransom Payment (Strongly Discouraged)
Although attackers demand a ransom (in this case, $45 in Bitcoin or Monero), paying does not guarantee data recovery. Additionally, payments may violate corporate policies or local cybercrime regulations.


How to Use Our LockBit 3.0 Decryptor — Step-by-Step?

Assess the Infection
Check if encrypted files have random 9-character extensions such as .3R9qG8i3Z and confirm the presence of ransom notes like 3R9qG8i3Z.README.txt.

Secure the Environment
Disconnect infected systems from the network and block any external devices or cloud drives that may still be connected.

Contact Our Recovery Team
Provide encrypted samples and ransom notes for variant identification. Our forensic team will analyze the structure and generate a tailored recovery timeline.

Run the Decryptor
Execute the LockBit Decryptor as an administrator. If you’re using the cloud-assisted version, ensure the system can securely connect to our key database for verification.

Enter Victim or Decryption ID
LockBit ransom notes typically include a unique 32-character hexadecimal identifier. Input this ID to ensure the decryption keys align with your encryption batch.

Start Recovery
Initiate the decryption process. The tool will automatically restore files and generate integrity and completion logs for transparency and compliance.

Also read: How to remove Monkey Ransomware (.monkey) from Windows & Servers?


Understanding LockBit 3.0 Black

Overview
LockBit 3.0 (also known as LockBit Black) is a modular RaaS platform and one of the most active ransomware threats globally. Its operators continuously update the payload, encryption logic, and extortion tactics to evade detection.

The PC Locker 3.0 by Mr.Robot note is a branded LockBit variant that demands a small ransom ($45) and advertises hacker “mentorships.” This hybrid attack mimics LockBit’s structure but adds self-promotion and monetization schemes.

Encryption Behavior
LockBit 3.0 encrypts documents, databases, images, and critical configuration files. Each encrypted file receives a unique extension (for example, .3R9qG8i3Z), and ransom notes follow the same naming pattern. It deletes shadow copies and disables recovery features to prevent local restoration.

Data Theft & Extortion
Unlike earlier LockBit versions, 3.0 Black includes data exfiltration and triple extortion elements — encryption, data leaks, and threats of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks for non-paying victims.


Ransom Note — PC Locker 3.0 by Mr.Robot

Note Title: Varies by infection; example: 3R9qG8i3Z.README.txt
Distribution: Dropped in each encrypted folder.

Excerpt from the Ransom Note:

~~~ PC Locker 3.0 by Mr.Robot~~~

>>>> Your data are stolen and encrypted

To get your files back you will have to pay a one-time fee of $45 in bitcoin or monero.

>>>> You need contact us and decrypt one file for free on these platforms with your personal DECRYPTION ID

Contact the following account on telegram

@mr_robot_unlock

or paste this link in your browser

https://t.me/mr_robot_unlock

>>>> Your personal DECRYPTION ID: 4B75BFA39AA770FC5EA571B04865E784

>>>> Warning! Do not DELETE or MODIFY any files, it can lead to recovery problems!

>>>> Warning! If you do not pay the ransom you will not receive you files NO EXCEPTIONS!

>>>> Warning! Any attempt to negotiate or you don’t want to pay is INSTANT BLOCK!

>>>> Advertisement

Would you like to earn thousands of dollars $$$ ?

We sell mentorship for stealers, DDOS and ransomware.

We only work with professionals and people with money DO NOT WASTE OUR TIME.

—————————————————————————————————


IOCs, Detections & Technical Indicators

Ransomware Name: LockBit 3.0 Black (PC Locker 3.0 by Mr.Robot)
File Extensions: Random 9-character suffix (e.g., .3R9qG8i3Z)
Ransom Note Filenames: [same 9-character ID].README.txt
Encryption Type: AES-256 + RSA-2048
Example Decryption ID: 4B75BFA39AA770FC5EA571B04865E784

Detections by Security Vendors:

  • ESET → Win64/Filecoder.Lockbit.Black
  • Kaspersky → Trojan-Ransom.Win32.LockBit3.gen
  • BitDefender → Gen:Heur.Ransom.LockBit3.0
  • Microsoft → Ransom:Win64/LockBitBlack.A!MTB

Indicators of Compromise (IOCs):

  • Presence of ransom note with “PC Locker 3.0 by Mr.Robot” header
  • .exe payloads in temporary or user directories (e.g., C:\Users\<User>\AppData\Temp\)
  • Deletion of shadow copies and system restore points
  • Use of Telegram handle @mr_robot_unlock for communication

Tactics, Techniques & Procedures (TTPs)

  • Initial Access: Phishing attachments, infected installers, and stolen credentials.
  • Execution: AES/RSA encryption, shadow copy deletion, and file renaming with unique extensions.
  • Persistence: Registry and startup folder modifications.
  • Exfiltration: Upload of stolen data to attacker servers before encryption.
  • Impact: Encryption of essential data, data leaks, and potential follow-up DDoS attacks.

Victim Landscape

Geographic Reach:

Affected Industries:

Activity Timeline:


Conclusion

LockBit 3.0 Black Ransomware, also known as PC Locker 3.0 by Mr.Robot, represents the latest evolution of the LockBit ransomware family — blending aggressive encryption, data theft, and extortion in one unified operation. Its random-extension naming, low-entry ransom amount, and use of Telegram communication channels highlight how ransomware has adapted to reach both small businesses and individuals.

Despite its deceptive “affordable” ransom, this strain poses the same level of risk and damage as major ransomware groups. Victims are strongly urged to isolate compromised systems, preserve all evidence, and contact certified recovery professionals instead of paying. Proactive security measures, including regular offline backups, strict RDP controls, and comprehensive endpoint monitoring, remain the most effective defense against LockBit’s relentless evolution.


Frequently Asked Questions

Currently, there is no free public decryptor for LockBit 3.0 variants.

It spreads via phishing, cracked software, and credential theft, often leveraging social engineering and remote desktop attacks.

Each infection uses a unique 9-character random string appended to encrypted files, linking them to the victim’s unique ID.

No. Payment does not guarantee recovery and encourages future attacks.

Apply system updates regularly, restrict RDP access, enforce MFA, and maintain offline, immutable backups.


Contact Us To Purchase The LockBit 3.0 Black Decryptor Tool

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