What is Cryptolocker Virus and how to remove it?
Cryptolocker is an example of a Trojan horse that infects your computer, after which it searches for files to encrypt.It belongs to the family of ransomware.The first time it appeared was in September 2013.
How does it work?
The CryptoLocker ransomware is distributed via spam email containing infected attachments or links to malicious websites.
When a computer is infected, Cryptolocker virus contacts a central server for the information it needs to activate, and then begins encrypting files on the infected computer with that information.After it encrypts your files, you need to pay a certain amount money in exchange for the decryption of your files.If you don't make the payment, it threatens to destroy all your files.
Cryptolocker virus only infects Windows PCs, running XP, Vista, Windows 7 or Windows 8. So, if you use an Apple computer, it can't affect you. Similarly, smartphones are safe from Cryptolocker.
Although it is the most famous example of ransomware, it's not the only one. PC users may be infected with other types of ransomware, and Android and Mac OS users should carry on with their normal security precautions.Being safe from one type of malware doesn't mean you're safe from all of them.
What is so special about Cryptolocker?
One of the reasons why Cryptolocker is dangerous is because this software really does encrypt your files, to a strength which renders it unbreakable even by the fastest computers in the world.
That means you'll have to rely on any backups of your data to get it back. But it's important that you don't try and restore your data before you clear your computer of the infection, otherwise you could lose your backup, too.
Will I get my data back if I pay the ransom?
There is a possibility of paying the ransom to the hackers. Some users that were hit with Cryptolocker report that they really did get their data back after paying the ransom.But there's no guarantee it will work, because cybercriminals aren't exactly the most trustworthy group of people. Also, paying the ransom may encourage these bad guys to continue and even expand their operations.We strongly suggest that you do not send any money to these cyber criminals, and instead address to the law enforcement agency in your country to report this attack.
How to prevent Cryptolocker ransomware from my PC?
To prevent Cryptolocker or any other type of malware from infecting your PC, it is crucial to have an antivirus software installed on your PC as a basic protection together with an antimalware protection, as an additional layer of protection.Also, you always need to have backup for your personal documents.
Cryptolocker removal
Unfortunately, once your PC has been infected and your data encrypted, you cannot recover them. Antivirus and antimalware software can only remove the infection from your PC or they can block it / prevent it from infecting your PC if you were wise enough to have them installed on time.However, they cannot recover your encrypted files. Therefore, it is highly important to protect your files on time.
According to MRG Effitas, Zemana AntiMalware has proved to be the best anti-ransomware software on the market, which will block the CryptoLocker ransomware on your machine.
If you are using Zemana AntiMalware premium version (which comes with 15-days free trial), it will protect you by blocking the Cryptolocker ransomware on time.This way, it will prevent it from infecting your PC.
However, if you decide to continue using the Trial and do not wish to purchase the Premium subscription at the end of the trial, your Zemana AntiMalware program will disable premium features. All other(basic) features will remain unchanged.This means that you will no longer be protected from Cryptolocker but you will still be able to scan your PC with Zemana AntiMalware, which will detect Cryptolocker and block it.
Therefore, the best Cryptolocker prevention is installing the right protection solution even before you get infected.
Zemana AntiMalware as a Cryptolocker removal tool
If you are looking for a solution that will help you in removing Cryptolocker, it is important to note that Zemana AntiMalware is compatible with any antivirus software that you might have on your PC and will run alongside it without any conflicts.
Below you can find a guide on how to detect and remove this virus with Zemana AntiMalware.
- STEP 1: Download Zemana AntiMalware here.
- STEP 2: Once download, install the software on your PC. You can do this by double-clicking on ZAM program icon on your desktop or in your download files.
- STEP 3: Press the "Scan" button.
- STEP 4: When the scan is complete, click "Next".
- STEP 5: Restart your computer if you are prompted to do so.
