Remove FBI virus (MoneyPak Scam)

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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The FBI MoneyPak Ransom is a computer virus, which will display a bogus notification, that pretends to be from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and states that your computer has been blocked due to it being involved with the distribution of pornographic material, SPAM and copyrighted content.
The FBI virus will lock you out of your computer and applications, so whenever you’ll try to log on into your Windows operating system or Safe Mode with Networking, it will display instead a lock screen asking you to pay a non-existing fine of  100 $ in the form of a Green Dot MoneyPak code.
Furthermore, to make its alert seem more authentic, this virus also has the ability to access your installed webcam ,so that the bogus FBI notification shows what is happening in the room.
If your computer is infected with FBI virus,then you are seeing any of the below notifications:

The FBI lock screen is a scam, and you should ignore any alert that this malicious software might generate and remove this trojan from your computer.
Under no circumstance should you send any money to this cyber criminals,as this could lead to identity theft,and if you have, you should contact your credit card company and dispute the charge stating that the program is a scam and a computer virus.

FBI Green Dot MoneyPak – Virus Removal Guide

STEP 1: Remove FBI lock screen from your computer

FBI MoneyPak Ransom has modified your Windows registry and added its malicious files to run at start-up, so whenever you’re trying to boot your computer it will launch instead its bogus notification.To remove these malicious changes,we can use any of the below methods :

Method 1: Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking and scan for malware

Some variants of FBI virus will allow the users to start the infected computer in Safe Mode with Networking without displaying the bogus lock screen. In this first method, we will try to start the computer in Safe Mode with Networking and then scan for malware to remove the malicious files.

  1. Remove all floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs from your computer, and then restart your computer.
  2. Press and hold the F8 key as your computer restarts.Please keep in mind that you need to press the F8 key before the Windows start-up logo appears.
    Note: With some computers, if you press and hold a key as the computer is booting you will get a stuck key message. If this occurs, instead of pressing and holding the “F8 key”, tap the “F8 key” continuously until you get the Advanced Boot Options screen.
  3. On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.
    [Image: Safe Mode with Networking]
  4. If your computer has started in Safe Mode with Networking, you’ll need to perform a system scan (as seen on STEP 2) with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and HitmanPro to remove the malicious files from your machine.

IF the FBI virus didn’t allow you to start the computer in Safe Mode with Networking,you’ll need to follow Method 2  to get rid of its lock screen.

Method 2: Restore Windows to a previous state using System Restore

System Restore can return your computer system files and programs to a time when everything was working fine, so we will try to use this Windows feature to get rid of FBI lock screen.

  1. Restart your computer, and then press and hold F8 during the initial startup to start your computer in safe mode with a Command prompt.
    Note: With some computers, if you press and hold a key as the computer is booting you will get a stuck key message. If this occurs, instead of pressing and holding the “F8 key”, tap the “F8 key” continuously until you get the Advanced Boot Options screen.
  2. Use the arrow keys to select the Safe mode with a Command prompt option.
    Enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt
  3. At the command prompt, type cd restore, and then press ENTER.
    Next,we will type rstrui.exe , and then press ENTER
    System Restore commands
  4. The System Restore window will start and you’ll need to select a restore point previous to this infection.
    Restore points in Windows 7
  5. After System Restore has completed its task,you should be able to boot in Windows normal mode,from there you’ll need to perform a system scan (as seen on STEP 2) with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and HitmanPro to remove the malicious files from your machine.

IF the FBI virus didn’t allow you to start the computer in Safe Mode with Command Prompt you’ll need to follow Method 3, to get rid of its screen lock.

Method 3: Remove FBI virus with HitmanPro Kickstart

IF you couldn’t boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt or didn’t have a System Restore point on your machine, we can use HitmanPro Kickstart to bypass this infection and access your computer to scan it for malware.

  1. We will need to create a HitmanPro Kickstart USB flash drive,so while you are using a “clean” (non-infected) computer, download HitmanPro from the below link.
    HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download HitmanPro)
  2. Insert your USB flash drive into your computer and follow the instructions from the below video:
  3. After you have create the HitmanPro Kickstart USB flash drive, you can insert this USB drive into the infected machine and start your computer.
  4. Once the computer starts, repeatedly tap the F11 key (on some machines its F10 or F2),which should bring up the Boot Menu, from there you can select to boot from your USB.
    Next,you’ll need to perform a system scan with HitmanPro as see in the below video:
  5. After HitmanPro Kickstart has completed its task,you should be able to boot in Windows normal mode,from there you’ll need to perform a system scan (as seen on STEP 2) with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and HitmanPro to remove the malicious files from your machine.

STEP 2: Remove FBI malicious files from your computer

No matter what method you used to get rid of FBI lock screen, we will need to remove its malicious files from your computer.
Please download and run a scan with the following scan to completely remove FBI virus from your computer.

Run a computer scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free

  1. You can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free from the below link,then double click on it to install this program.
    MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE DOWNLOAD LINK(This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free)
  2. When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the setup process.
    DO NOT make any changes to default settings and when the program has finished installing, make sure you leave both the Update Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware and Launch Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware checked,then click on the Finish button.
    Malwarebytes Anti-Malware installation
  3. On the Scanner tab,select Perform quick scan and then click on the Scan button to start scanning your computer.
    Malwarebytes Anti-Malware quick scan
  4. Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for FBI malicious files as shown below.
    Malwarebytes scanning for
  5. When the Malwarebytes scan will be completed,click on Show Result.
    Malwarebytes scan results
  6. You will now be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware has detected.Please note that the infections found may be different than what is shown in the image.Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked) and click on the Remove Selected button.
    Infections found by Malwarebytes
  7. After your computer will restart, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats

Run a computer scan with HitmanPro

  1. Download HitmanPro from the below link,then double click on it to start this program.
    HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a new web page from where you can download HitmanPro)
    IF you are experiencing problems while trying to start HitmanPro, you can use the Force Breach mode.To start HitmanPro in Force Breach mode, hold down the left CTRL-key when you start HitmanPro and all non-essential processes are terminated, including the malware process. (How to start HitmanPro in Force Breach mode – Video)
  2. HitmanPro will start and you’ll need to follow the prompts (by clicking on the Next button) to start a system scan with this program.
    HitmanPro scanner
    HitmanPro installation
  3. HitmanPro will start scanning your computer for FBI malicious files as seen in the image below.
    HitmanPro scans after
  4. Once the scan is complete,you’ll see a screen which will display all the infected files that this utility has detected, and you’ll need to click on Next to remove these malicious files.
    HitmanPro scan results
  5. Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
    HitmanPro 30 days activation button

If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove FBI virus from your machine, please start a new thread in our Malware Removal Assistance forum.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

31 thoughts on “Remove FBI virus (MoneyPak Scam)”

  1. Hello,
    If you have the Kaspersky Rescue Disk use the WinUnlocker command to disinfect your registry.
    If you booted Kaspersky Rescue Disk in the graphic mode, click the button К ; in the bottom right corner of the screen and in the menu select Terminal.

    In the command prompt enter the command windowsunlocker and press Enter on the keyboard.

    Alternatively, you could browse to the infected file, and just delete it from your machine, if you know what you are doing then this is the most fastest way to solve this issue.

    Here are the usual locations for this type of infections. Depending on what operating system are you using, browse to the following paths and search for any randomly named file (eg: daxssda.exe, 1232.exe or skype.dat)

    For Windows XP:

    C:Documents and Settings(Current User random-file.exe
    C:Documents and SettingsAll UsersApplication Datarandom-file.exe
    C:Documents and Settings(Current User)Application Datarandom-file.exe

    For Windows Vista, 7 and 8:

    C:Users(Current User)random-file.exe
    C:ProgramDatarandom-file.exe
    C:Users(Current User)AppDataRoamingrandom-file.exe
    C:Users(Current User)AppDataLocalrandom-file.exe
    C:Documents and Settings(Current User)Local SettingsApplication Datarandom-file.exe

    If you will still have issues, then you will have to create a thread in our Malware Removal Assistance forum: http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Malware-Removal-Assistance
    Stay safe!

  2. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! They wanted $200 for the scam, the repair shop wanted $200 to fix it, but you helped me fix it for FREE in less than one hour!

    Here is an internet High five, hand shake and hug!!!!! all well deserved! Thanks again!

  3. Hello Britta,
    This infection should not affect your login passwords, are you sure you’re using the corect passwords?
    Did you try HitmanPro Kickstart, as this product should be able to remove the infection without the need of being logged in into your user account.
    If it still doesn’t work,you’ll need to create a Kaspersky Rescue CD as seen HERE: http://malwaretips.com/blogs/remove-police-trojan/ , on Method 3.
    If everything fails, then you’ll need to create an account on our forums and a member of the staff will help you (with more advanced tools) to remove this nasty virus: http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Malware-Removal-Assistance
    Good Luck!

  4. Hello,

    I have the nasty Money Pak virus on my PC, but I can’t log in with my username/password, even in safe mode. It says the password in incorrect, but I haven’t changed it. Any suggestions?

    THANKS!

  5. OMG thank you so much for this information! I was in the middle of a project when this crap popped up! I was already stressed and then this mess happens. Luckily my mom recognized it as a scam. still thanks for your simple instructions and easy to follow steps! Now I’m good to go! (:

  6. Stelian,
    You Tips are THE BEST!
    After multiple hours of attempted fixes and unable to load Kicstart on my USB stick around the “Error #5, lock”, I then copied HitmanPro to the stick on a clean computer. Scans from the stick for Administrator and two users only found tracking cookies and other minor junk. The nefarious FBI scam block remained infected for the problem users. After more web searches, the Universe gratefully sent me to your fine tips with the Forced Breach suggestion. It worked perfectly to search and destroy the nasty.
    With Gratitude,
    Keith

  7. Hello Tom,
    Here is the direct download link for 32-bit version : http://dl.surfright.nl/HitmanPro.exe
    If you can’t create the USB,you’ll need to create a Kaspersky Rescue CD as seen here: http://malwaretips.com/blogs/remove-police-trojan/ , on Method 3.
    If everything fails, then you’ll need to create an account on our forums and a member of the staff will help you (with more advanced tools) to remove this nasty virus: http://malwaretips.com/Forum-Malware-Removal-Assistance

  8. I am would like to try the Hitmanpro to cleanup my xp computer, unfortunately it is a 32bit computer
    while the computer I am downloading to is a 64bit computer, it will not allow me to run the 32bit version in order to create the usb so I can use it on the xp. Any suggestions. I have tried to boot to
    safemode but it does not seem to be able to do that and I have the FBI bogus hijacker. Need some help.

  9. Hello Patrick,
    Please run a scan with the following tools:
    STEP 1: Run a scan with RogueKiller

    1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
      RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
    2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Scan button to perform a system scan.
    3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
    4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.

    STEP 2: Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
    If you are having problems starting this program please use the ForceBreach mode as described in the guide.

    STEP 3: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:

    1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
      ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
    2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
    3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    4. Click the Start button.
    5. Check Scan archives
    6. Push the Start button.
    7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
    8. When the scan completes, push Finish

  11. I got this virus on my fiance’s computer. She ran several antivirus programs and antimalware programs, however, this wasn’t detected on any of them. I know it’s there because whenever we try to log onto my account on her computer, the FBI scam screen shows up. So how would we remove something that nothing’s detecting?

  13. ok She did all of that and then when she got to the ESET scan this one trojan kept multiplying and she can’t get rid of it. the name of it is: js/agent.nid trojan . How can she get rid of it permenantly?

  15. hey my friend tried this and it seems to work along with all the other instructions given here. I do have a question though. She says that now she can’t get her windows defender firewall back up and she is unable to remove certain programs. How can she fix this?

  17. I have a variant of this on my system. It asks for 200$. I an able to login and window s will boot as usual. I can open everything as long as my internet connection is off. As soon as I turn on my wireless it gives me the lock screen. Will threes same steps work with my issue?

  19. Why such kind of nonsense is happening in my pc..your steps helped me to remove FBI virus.thanks guys..

    Please provide me information on how to avoid this kind of malware in the future!???

  20. I was able to unlock the screen by highlighting the text on the web page and then pressing the delete button. I was then able to do a system restore. This was after I tried to run in safe mode and could not.

  21. Hello John,
    Please run the following scan and add the log in your next reply.
    STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix
    Download ComboFix from here: COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)

    VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download.ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop

    • Close any open browsers.
    • Very Important!Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    • WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    • Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    • If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
    2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
    3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.

    Notes:

    1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
    2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
    3. If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.

    Please add the combofix log in your next reply!

  22. Run malware bytes and hitman . Detected and removed moneypak virus but then when I restart in regular mode. Virus comes back. Have used malware bytes to clear twice but still comes back if I don’t start in safe mode. Can you help?

  24. Thanks for posting removal instructions. Unfortunately, I have the newest Kaspersky rescue cd and I ran it, but it found nothing? Virus still takes over screen :(. Stuck.

  27. 100% worked thanks a million mate…just a quick question though, in your examples above, would it be typical on the results? because malware bytes found only 2 items. everything seems to be in order however.

  28. thank you for you insight and sharing the how-to in dealing with this most malicious piece of disgusting software I have ever seen, i.e. the FBI Moneypack. I thank you and am attempting to retrace your success in removal of this pernicious threat.

  29. This was truly the ONLY thing that worked. I had the Moneypak virus on my virtual machine. Thank you SO MUCH!!

  31. Just want to say : THANK YOU!
    I didn’t have the windowsunlocker button however I have used the command on the terminal and worked out perfectly!
    Thank you Stelian Pilici!

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