.XXX File Extension

File used by Compucon's Embroidery Operating System (EOS), a program used to create embroideries and other patterns for Compucon sewing machines; contains a stitch pattern, including color, lettering, design patterns, stitch density, and size.

XXX files may be loaded onto a sewing machine to automatically create embroideries. They may also be converted into formats usable by other types of sewing machines.

NOTE: The file extension ".xxx" may also be used as a placeholder for a generic or undefined file extension.

An XXX file is a file encrypted by Extractor ransomware, a trojan horse utilized by cybercriminals. It contains a user's file, such as an .XLS or .PDF file, that has been encrypted to prevent it from opening. XXX files became prevalent in 2017 and are similar to .LOCKY files.

The purpose of Extractor ransomware is to take your files hostage and force you to pay the perpetrator to unlock your files. The virus is a trojan horse that is typically introduced through fake updates or downloads or email attachments. Once the virus affects your computer it begins scrambling your files, renaming them, and encrypting them. The virus then generates a .TXT (ReadMe_XXX.txt) ransom note informing you of the takeover and what you need to do to recover your files.

There is no program currently available to effectively restore your files. If you backup your files you can execute a full system restore. Otherwise, the only known way to decrypt your infected files is to pay the perpetrator for the private key and decrypt program.