Remove FBI virus (MoneyPak Scam)

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Written by: Stelian

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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.

10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams

Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.

  1. Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.

    warning sign

    Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).

    If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.

  2. Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.

    updates guide

    Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.

    If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.

  3. Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

    shield guide

    Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.

    If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.

  4. Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.

    install guide

    Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.

    If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.

  5. Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

    cursor sign

    Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.

    If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.

  6. Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.

    trojan horse

    Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.

    If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.

  7. Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.

    lock sign

    Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.

    If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.

  8. Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).

    lock sign

    Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.

    If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.

  9. Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

    backup sign

    Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.

    If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.

  10. If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.

    warning sign

    Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.

    • Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
    • Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
    • Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
    • Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
    • Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
    • Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
    • Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.

These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.

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

  1. 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!

  2. 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!

    • 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!

  3. 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! (:

  4. 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

  5. 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.

  7. 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?

    • 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

  8. 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?

  9. 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!???

  10. 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.

  11. 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?

    • 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!

  13. 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.

  16. 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.

  17. 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.

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

  20. 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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