| If you have... | Legitimate tool | |----------------|----------------| | GPG-encrypted file | gpg --decrypt file.gpg | | OpenSSL encrypted file | openssl enc -d -aes-256-cbc -in file.enc -out file.txt | | VeraCrypt container | VeraCrypt software | | Password-protected archive | 7-Zip, WinRAR, or 7z x archive.7z | | BitLocker drive | manage-bde -unlock or disk utility |

Before diving into decryption, it's essential to understand that file encryption is a method of protecting data by converting it into a code that can only be accessed with a decryption key or password. If you've encountered an .hc file and it's encrypted, you'll need to identify the encryption method used to secure it.

If your file was originally a standard file (like .jpg, .doc, .mp4) but now ends in .hc and you see a ransom note (usually _readme.txt), it is encrypted ransomware.

1. Determine if Offline or Online Encryption The Stop/Djvu ransomware uses two types of encryption keys:

2. Use the Emsisoft Decryptor Emsisoft provides a free tool that attempts decryption using known offline keys.

3. Check for Backups If the decryptor fails, your only option is to restore from backups:

⚠️ Important: Do not rename the file extension manually (e.g., changing .hc to .mp4). This corrupts the file header and ensures it will never be decryptable, even if a key is found later.