What is a Ransowmare Virus and How to Remove it [Full Guide]
Written by: Stelian Pilici
Published on:
Ransomware represents one of the most dangerous cybersecurity threats facing individuals and organizations today. These malicious programs encrypt files or lock systems until a ransom is paid. Failure to pay could mean permanent data loss or disruption.
Attacks are rising exponentially, with both opportunistic and targeted campaigns from cybercriminals. Home users and businesses suffer massive productivity and financial losses from ransomware. But understanding how ransomware works and taking preventative steps can reduce your risk.
This comprehensive guide will cover:
Defining ransomware and how it infects systems
Most common types of ransomware
Signs your device has been infected
Steps to remove ransomware
How to recover encrypted or locked files
Best practices to prevent future attacks
Arm yourself with the knowledge to avoid becoming a victim and fight back against ransomware.
This article contains:
What Is Ransomware?
Ransomware is a form of malicious software, or malware, that locks access to a computer system or encrypts files until a ransom demand is paid. Most ransomware is spread through phishing emails, compromised sites, and drive-by downloads. Once installed, it prevents users from accessing the system or files until a specified amount of money is paid.
The earliest ransomware attacks simply locked systems, displaying messages purporting to be from law enforcement. Payment was demanded to “unlock” the computer. However, modern ransomware employs encryption algorithms to make files inaccessible.
Encryption Ransomware
Encryption ransomware, also called crypto ransomware, encrypts documents, images, databases, and other file types. Attackers use complex algorithms, sometimes coupled with encryption keys specific to each victim. This mechanism enables perpetrators to demand larger ransoms, as encrypted data is practically irretrievable without the decryption key.
Prominent examples of encrypting ransomware include CryptoLocker, WannaCry, NotPetya, LockerGoga, STOP, and Ryuk. The inability to access encrypted data cripples business operations, so corporations often pay six or seven figure ransoms.
Locker Ransomware
Locker ransomware, also known as blocker ransomware, prevents any system interaction. It locks users out under the guise of law enforcement, blocking access to applications, files, and the operating system. Notable locker ransomware includes Reveton and Locky.
While less destructive than encryption ransomware, locker attacks still halt productivity. They target individuals and small businesses unlikely to have robust backups. However, locker malware is easier to remove, and files typically remain intact.
Other Ransomware Variants
Ransomware threats continue evolving, with new capabilities and tricks aimed at monetizing attacks:
Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) – Ransomware kits sold in dark web markets, lowering barriers for new cybercriminals.
Hybrid ransomware – Combining encryption and locking to maximize impact.
Ransom DDoS – Overloading sites with traffic, then demanding payment to stop.
Doxxware – Threatening to publish stolen sensitive data online unless paid off.
Staying vigilant of new ransomware trends helps guard against evolving attack vectors. But most incidents still involve basic encryption or locker techniques.
How Does Ransomware Infect Your System?
Ransomware typically spreads through phishing campaigns, malware attachments, compromised sites, and drive-by downloads. Here are some common infection vectors:
1. Phishing Emails
The most prevalent ransomware delivery method is phishing emails masquerading as legitimate messages. Subject lines often claim an unpaid invoice, bank alert, or similar pretext. Opening attached documents or enabling macros infects systems.
2. Compromised Websites
Hackers covertly compromise websites to serve ransomware downloads to unsuspecting visitors. Drive-by attacks via browser exploits also infect systems. Keeping software patched eliminates many of these weaknesses.
3. Malware Loaders
Sometimes malware installs other “payload” malware. After gaining a foothold, downloaders retrieve ransomware or other malicious code. Using malware prevention reduces these piggyback infections.
4. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
RDP credentials stolen in previous breaches grant access for hands-on ransomware installation. Attackers breach insecure RDP endpoints or brute force credentials. Limiting RDP access reduces this threat surface.
While ransomware authors constantly refine tactics, viruses and worms spreading automatically across networks are less common now. Instead, phishing and social engineering manipulate users into enabling the infection.
Signs Your Device Has Been Infected With Ransomware
Detecting a ransomware attack quickly limits damage. Fast response can contain it before all systems and backups are impacted. Here are telltale warning signs of ransomware:
Unable to open files, applications, or folders
Encryption warning messages on files
Programs shutting down unexpectedly
Text files opening with ransom notes inside
Strange new file extensions appended to filenames
Desktop background or images changed to ransom warnings
Computer locking with fake FBI, IRS, or law enforcement messages
New shortcuts titled HELP_DECRYPT on the desktop
Ransom notes detail instructions for paying the ransom to restore access. The note may be displayed in the browser, application window, text file, or as the desktop wallpaper.
Advanced signs like encrypted backups, renamed system files, deleted volume shadow copies, and disabled recovery tools indicate a sophisticated attack. Still, early detection gives you a head start on response.
How to Remove Ransomware from an Infected Device
Removing ransomware involves first isolating and containing the attack, then removing the malware to restore normal system operation. Here are steps to eliminate ransomware:
It’s important to understand that by starting the removal process you risk losing your files, as we cannot guarantee that you will be able to recover them. Your files may be permanently compromised when trying to remove this infection or trying to recover the encrypted documents.
We cannot be held responsible for losing your files or documents during this removal process.
It’s recommended to create a backup image of the encrypted drives or files before proceeding with the malware removal instructions so that you can restore them if the decryption keys are recovered from the cybercriminals’ servers. To create a backup for your encrypted files or drives, you can use EaseUS Todo Backup Free.
This malware removal guide may appear overwhelming due to the number of steps and numerous programs that are being used. We have only written it this way to provide clear, detailed, and easy-to-understand instructions that anyone can use to remove malware for free.
Please perform all the steps in the correct order. If you have any questions or doubts at any point, stop and ask for our assistance.
To remove ransomware viruses from your computer, follow these steps:
STEP 1: Use Rkill to terminate suspicious programs.
In this first step, we will download and run Rkill to terminate suspicious programs that may be running on your computer.
RKill is a program that was developed at BleepingComputer.com that attempts to terminate known malware processes so that your normal security software can then run and clean your computer of infections. When RKill runs it will kill malware processes and then removes incorrect executable associations and fixes policies that stop us from using certain tools.
Download Rkill.
You can download RKill to your computer from the below link. When at the download page, click on the Download Now button labeled iExplore.exe. We are downloading a renamed version of Rkill (iExplore.exe) because some malware will not allow processes to run unless they have a certain filename.
RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK (The above link will open a new page from where you can download Rkill)
Run RKill.
After downloading, double-click the iExplore.exe icon to kill malicious processes. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder. The program may take some time to search for and end various malware programs.
When it is finished, the black window will close automatically and a log file will open. Do not restart your computer. Proceed to the next step in this guide.
STEP 2: Use Malwarebytes to remove Ransomware and Unwanted Programs
In this second step, we will install Malwarebytes to scan and remove any infections, adware, or potentially unwanted programs that may be present on your computer.
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
STEP 3: Use HitmanPro to remove Rootkits and other Malware
In this third step, while the computer is in normal back, we will download and run a scan with HitmanPro to remove Trojans, rootkits, and other malicious programs.
HitmanPro is a second-opinion scanner that takes a unique cloud-based approach to malware scanning. HitmanPro scans the behavior of active files and also files in locations where malware normally resides for suspicious activity. If it finds a suspicious file that’s not already known, HitmanPro sends it to its clouds to be scanned by two of the best antivirus engines today, which are Bitdefender and Kaspersky.
Although HitmanPro is shareware and costs $24.95 for 1 year on 1 PC, there is no limit on scanning. The limitation only kicks in when there is a need to remove or quarantine detected malware by HitmanPro on your system and by then, you can activate the one-time 30-days trial to enable the cleanup.
Download HitmanPro.
You can download HitmanPro by clicking the link below.
HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (The above link will open a new web page from where you can download HitmanPro)
Install HitmanPro.
When HitmanPro has finished downloading, double-click on “hitmanpro.exe” (for 32-bit versions of Windows) or “hitmanpro_x64.exe” (for 64-bit versions of Windows) to install this program on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
You may be presented with a User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow HitmanPro to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
Follow the on-screen prompts.
When HitmanPro starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below. Click on the “Next” button to perform a system scan.
Wait for the HitmanPro scan to complete.
HitmanPro will now begin to scan your computer for malicious programs.
Click on “Next”.
When HitmanPro has finished the scan, it will display a list of all the malware that it has found. Click on the “Next” button to have HitmanPro remove the detected items.
Click on “Activate free license”.
HitmanPro may now require to activate the free 30-days trial to remove the malicious files. To do this, click on the “Activate free license” button to begin the free 30 days trial and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
When the malware removal process is complete, it will display a screen that shows the status of the various programs that were removed. At this screen, you should click on the Next button and then if prompted you should click on the Reboot button. If HitmanPro does not prompt you to reboot, please just click on the Close button.
STEP 4: Use AdwCleaner to remove Malicious Browser Extensions and Adware
In this next step, we will use AdwCleaner to remove malicious browser policies and unwanted browser extensions from your computer.
AdwCleaner is a free popular on-demand scanner that can detect and remove malware that even the most well-known anti-virus and anti-malware applications fail to find. This on-demand scanner includes a lot of tools that can be used to fix the side effects of adware. browser hijackers and other malware.
Download AdwCleaner.
You can download AdwCleaner by clicking the link below.
ADWCLEANER DOWNLOAD LINK (The above link will open a new web page from where you can download AdwCleaner)
Double-click on the setup file.
Double-click on the file named “adwcleaner_x.x.x.exe” to start AdwCleaner. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
AdwCleaner program will now open and you will be presented with the program’s license agreement. After you read it, click on the I agree button if you wish to continue. If Windows prompts you as to whether or not you wish to run AdwCleaner, please allow it to run.
Enable “Reset Chrome policies” to remove malicious browser policies.
When AdwCleaner starts, on the left side of the window, click on “Settings” and then enable “Reset Chrome policies“.
Click on the “Scan” button.
On the left side of the AdwCleaner window, click on “Dashboard” and then click “Scan” to perform a computer scan.
Wait for the AdwCleaner scan to finish.
AdwCleaner will now scan your computer for malware. This process can take a few minutes.
Click on “Quarantine” to remove malware.
When the AdwCleaner scan is completed it will display all of the items it has found. Click on the “Quarantine” button to remove the malicious programs from your computer.
Click on “Continue” to remove the malicious programs.
AdwCleaner will now prompt you to save any open files or data as the program will need to close any open programs before it starts to clean. Click on the “Continue” button to finish the removal process.
AdwCleaner will now delete all detected malware from your computer. When the malware removal process is complete, you may be asked to restart your computer.
STEP 5: Perform a final check with ESET Online Scanner
This final step involves installing and running a scan with ESET Online Scanner to check for any additional malicious programs that may be installed on the computer..
ESET Online Scanner is a free second-opinion scanner, designed to rescue your computer from malware (viruses, trojans, rootkits, etc.) that have infected your computer despite all the security measures you have taken (such as anti-virus software, firewalls, etc.).
Download ESET Online Scanner.
You can download ESET Online Scanner by clicking the link below.
Double-click on esetonlinescanner.exe to run the installer.
When ESET Online Scanner has finished downloading, double-click on “esetonlinescanner.exe” to install it program on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Install ESET Online Scanner.
When ESET Online Scanner starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below. Select your desired language from the drop-down menu and click Get started.
In the Terms of use screen, click Accept.
Select your preference for the Customer Experience Improvement Program and the Detection feedback system and click Continue.
Start a Full Scan with ESET Online Scanner
Click on Full Scan to perform an in-depth inspection of the entire computer.
Select Enable for Detection of Potentially Unwanted Applications, then click Start scan.
Wait for the ESET Online Scanner scan to finish.
ESET Online Scanner will now begin to scan your computer for malware. This process can take quite a while, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
ESET Online Scanner will automatically remove the malicious files.
At the end of the scan, the Found and resolved detections screen will be displayed. You can click View detailed results to view specific information. Detected threats are automatically cleaned and quarantined.
STEP 6: Restore the files encrypted by ransomware
Unfortunately, in most cases, it’s not possible to recover the files encrypted by this ransomware virus because the private key which is needed to unlock the encrypted files is only available through the attackers. However, below we’ve listed three options you can use to try and recover your files.
Make sure you remove the malware from your computer first, otherwise, it will repeatedly lock your system or encrypt files. If you suspect that your computer is still infected with malware, you can run a free scan with Emsisoft Emergency Kit.
Option 1: Search a decryption tool for this ransomware
The cybersecurity community is constantly working to create ransomware decryption tools, so you can try to search these sites for updates:
Option 2: Use EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free to recover the encrypted files
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free can restore files and repair corrupted files with simple clicks. Its powerful scanning algorithms can identify and retrieve huge file type library, including all of the popular video files, audio files, photos, and document formats. While the free version only allows you to recover 2 GB of data, this can be helpful to see if the recovery is possible and restore back the most important files from your computer.
Download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free.
You can download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free by clicking the link below.
Double-click on the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free setup file.
When EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
You may be presented with a User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow EaseUS to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free installation.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.
When the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard installation begins, click on the “Install Now” as seen in the image below.
When your EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard installation completes, click the “Start Now” button to start the program.
Select a location to start recovering the encrypted files.
Choose the drive or folder where you are the encrypted files that you want to recover and click “Scan“.
Wait for the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan to complete.
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard will now scan your computer files that can be restored. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Find the files you want to recover.
When the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan is finished scanning it will show a screen that displays the files that can be recovered. This tool can recover a lot of data, use the “Filter” button to quickly filter specific file types and find the files that you want to recover.
Click the “Preview” button or double-click on a file for a full preview.
Select your files and click “Recover”.
Finally, select the the files you want to recover and click “Recover“. Choose a safe location to save all the files. The free version only allow you to recover 2 GB of data, however, this will allow you to recover the most important files and see if EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can correctly recover them.
Option 3: Try to restore your files with ShadowExplorer
This ransomware will attempt to delete all shadow copies when you first start any executable on your computer after becoming infected. Thankfully, the infection is not always able to remove the shadow copies, so you should continue to try restoring your files using this method.
Download ShadowExplorer.
You can download ShadowExplorer from the below link.
Double-click on the ShadowExplorer-x.x-setup file to start the installation process, then follow the on-screen promts to install this program.
Select snapshot date.
Open ShadowExplorer and then from the top bar select the drive where the files that you want to save are located, then select from the snapshot available one previous to this infection.
Export the files that you want to recover.
Once you have found a copy of the original file or folder, right-click on it and the select “Export”. A window will prompt you where you want to save the file or folder.
Your computer should now be free of Ransomware infections and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Preventing ransomware requires diligence and smart security strategies. Here are proactive measures to harden your environment:
Enable macro scanning in Microsoft Office to block malicious code.
Install comprehensive endpoint security software on all devices.
Block suspicious file extensions via email security filtering.
Create system restore points and backups of critical data.
Keep software patched and updated to close security gaps.
Use ad blockers and anti-malware browser extensions.
Educate employees on ransomware risks and phishing attacks.
Limit admin and software installation privileges for users.
Segment networks to limit ransomware from spreading between systems.
Backups make the largest difference, enabling safe file restoration without paying ransoms. Test backups regularly and keep them offline or immutable to prevent encryption.
With vigilance and preparation, you can defend against ransomware and quickly mitigate incidents. Don’t let cybercriminals profit off these schemes – take control with robust security.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ransomware
What exactly is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malicious software that prevents access to a computer system or data until a ransom is paid. It often encrypts files or locks the system, displaying ransom payment instructions to restore access. Failure to pay could mean permanent data loss or disruption.
How do ransomware attacks happen?
Most ransomware spreads through phishing emails, compromised websites, malware attachments, and drive-by downloads. Users are tricked into enabling the infection, which then encrypts files or locks the system. Some ransomware spreads on its own between networked machines.
What are the main types of ransomware?
Encryption ransomware encrypts files and data. Locker ransomware locks system access and displays ransom payment instructions. Hybrid ransomware uses both approaches. Ransomware-as-a-Service sells ransomware kits to cybercriminals.
What are signs of a ransomware infection?
Common signs include inability to open files, strange new file extensions, ransom payment instructions displayed, and computer locking with fake law enforcement messages. Advanced attacks also disable recovery tools and encrypted backups.
How can I remove ransomware from my computer?
Isolate the infected computer, boot in Safe Mode, run updated anti-malware and anti-ransomware scans, restore files from clean backups, repair system file damage, and undelete any erased files using data recovery tools.
What if my files are already encrypted by ransomware?
Check for free decryption tools, restore previous versions, recover deleted files with data recovery software, use ransomware decryptors that exploit flaws in the encryption, or format and reinstall the OS, then restore files from an old backup.
Should I pay the ransom to get my files back?
You should avoid paying the ransom since it fuels more cybercrime and is no guarantee you’ll get your files back. But for businesses dependent on quick data access, paying may be the only option.
How can I prevent ransomware infections?
Keep software updated, use endpoint security, block suspicious files in email, enable macros scanning, create backups, educate employees on threats, limit user privileges, and segment networks to prevent spread. Backups make the biggest difference for fast recovery.
Is ransomware illegal? Are there laws against it?
Yes, ransomware is cybercrime and illegal in most jurisdictions. Specific laws prohibit unauthorized computer access, data theft, extortion, and deliberate system damage under computer hacking and fraud laws. But prosecution is difficult given attackers hide behind anonymity.
Who is responsible if my business suffers a ransomware attack?
The cybercriminals who created and enabled the attack ultimately bear responsibility. But businesses must also take reasonable precautions like security software, access controls, and backups. Failure to meet expected standards could make a business liable under data protection or regulatory laws.
I hope these detailed answers help explain the ransomware threat. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!
The Bottom Line
Ransomware remains one of today’s top cyber threats, but understanding the risk factors allows you to be proactive. Recognizing the signs of infection quickly contains damage. Isolating devices, using safe mode, running antivirus scans, and restoring clean backups breaks the attack chain.
Don’t enable macros or open attachments from untrusted sources. Keep software updated and limit user privileges. Segmenting networks also limits lateral movement. But fully preventing ransomware requires securing both technology and human behavior.
While ransomware won’t disappear anytime soon, empower yourself with knowledge to evade and overcome attacks. Don’t pay ransoms that only embolden cybercriminals – fight back smartly using multilayered security and backups. With preparation, you can emerge safer and avoid disrupted operations after ransomware strikes.
Meet Stelian Pilici
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
