How To Open A Null File

Null is a type of malware used by cybercriminals that holds a user’s files hostage and forces him to pay the perpetrator to have the files unlocked. 

It is most commonly introduced into a victim’s computer via spam emails that contain malicious file attachments that are downloaded and run by unsuspecting users. 

These email attachments could be JavaScript.JS files or other types of files. DOCX files with macros that appear to be standard attachments but contain the Null virus.

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When the ransomware runs on a user’s computer, it encrypts files and appends the .null extension to their names. 

Documents, images, videos, and backup files, such as.DOCX,.JPG,.MP4, and.DB files are commonly targeted. A spreadsheet.xlsx file, for example, becomes spreadsheet.xlsx.null.

The virus then displays a pop-up window with several tabs that explain the virus’s hostile takeover of the user’s files. The tabs contain information about what happened to the computer, the encryption used on the files, a list of encrypted files, instructions on how the user can recover his files, and instructions on how the user can pay the Bitcoin ransom.

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What Is A Null File?

A file with a.null extension has been encrypted by the Null virus, a variant of the Stop and Djvu ransomware that first appeared in August 2017. Because it is encrypted with the AES-256 algorithm, it cannot be opened by simply changing the .null file extension.

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How To Open A Null File

The best way to open a NULL file is with a universal file viewer. Depending on the format, programs like File Magic can open a wide range of files. 

Some files, however, may not be compatible with these programs. If your NULL file is incompatible, it can only be opened in binary format.

Certain types of NULL files can be opened by Final Media Player and Miro for the Windows operating system. 

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Remember that different programs may use NULL files for different purposes, so you may have to try a few of them before you can open your specific file.

Depending on the type of file, if you try to open a NULL file on your laptop. The file type is listed in the file’s properties. Right-click the file on a Windows PC, select “Properties,” and then look under “Type of File.” On a Mac, right-click the file, select “More Info,” and then look under “Kind.”

Contacting the software developer is another simple way to get assistance with opening your NULL file; the software developer or company will provide you with a guide or even a tool for opening files with the NULL extension.

Originally posted on March 25, 2022 @ 7:15 pm