See our guide to Windows Safe Mode for more on what this is and how it works. If you can't switch on your computer without seeing the ransomware message immediately, then you'll need to start in Safe Mode to get around this. Next, click on Remove Selected to clear the infected files. Check each of the tick- boxes alongside the detected infections. MalwareBytes Anti-Malware Free is a good, free program that can remove CryptoLocker and similar ransomware scams.ĭownload and install Malwarebytes as per our instructions, then run a full scan of your PC. Method 1: If your computer is still accessible Different viruses have different cures, so seek information on your virus and find out whether security companies have created an antidote. Use another PC to search for details of the virus. Disconnect from the internet – the malware could be trying to send your data out to the scammers. Make a note of any information you can, and log any files that are flagged by your operating system or security software as infected. If you do contract a PC virus – ransomware or otherwise – the best thing to do is to remain calm. The lock-screen claims the computer has been used for illegal activities, scaring or embarrassing victims into paying a ‘fine’ via online payment systems such as Ukash or Bitcoins that can be hard for police to track. The most common type of ransomware locks your PC screen, displaying a message purporting to be from the Metropolitan Police, the UK’s e-crime unit or Action Fraud. Both approaches claim that payment will resolve the issue, although officials warn that paying won’t guarantee you’ll get the use of your PC back, and that your bank details could be stolen in the process. Viruses such as CryptoLocker can even encrypt the files on your PC, making them unreadable unless you pay up for a key-code. Ransomware may lock your system entirely, preventing you from getting past the warning message. Ransomware is a form of virus that attacks your PC and locks parts of the system, sometimes irrevocably blocking access to valuable photos and important documents.

Malwarebytes crypto locker