How to remove Haters ransomware virus

Haters — a malicious computer infection under development

Haters virus is a new crypto-ransomware ^[1] which infects computers and runs executes an encryption process rendering numerous victim’s files unreadable. The software still seems to be in the initial stages of development. Nevertheless, its authors already feel confident enough to compare their work to the infamous Cerber virus which currently stands in the leading positions of the world’s most dangerous ransomware. Perhaps driven by the desire to achieve similar success, the extortionists refer to their creation as Cerber3Ransomware. Besides, the virus also launches data encryption process using CryptoCerber.exe or Cerber3Ransomware.exe executables. Nevertheless, the experts doubt that the hackers behind this virus have anything to do with the Cerber family. In fact, closer research of the virus has brought another ransomware group into the experts’ attention — the Stupid virus. The evidence or their connection is obvious: from the similarities in ransom note presentation to the application of the same extension “.haters” as another Stupid ransomware version Mikoyan uses. You can tell that this software is still a work-in-progress merely by looking at its ransom note. This note opens as a pop-up called Form 2 after the virus finished the data encryption and features just a few words in bold “Your Files Are Encrypted.” Below this line, there is space for the combination code and a “Decrypted” button next to it. Luckily for the users who managed to get their computers infected during this short period while the virus was active, the experts have found a way to decrypt it. It turns out that the string “masihmaubullyguaanjeng” found in the ransomware’s code is the key to software decryption. If you manage to complete data decryption successfully, you should also remove Haters virus components from your computer to prevent secondary encryption. Don’t try to perform the elimination manually, though and put some reputable antivirus software like FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes to use.

While the software is currently decryptable, it would be naive to expect it to stay harmless for too long. Ransomware is an easy way for the criminals who know at least a little bit about programming to make money. So, you can be sure they will definitely take that opportunity. Thus, you should be prepared to protect your files in case an undecryptable version of Hater hits the web. Making backup copies of your files and storing them in some secure location will guarantee that you will always be able to recover your files in case they get corrupted, damaged, or encrypted by ransomware. Proper system protection is just as important. Make sure the security software you possess is legal and updated, and if you don’t have one — obtain it immediately! As we have already mentioned, such tools are also irreplaceable helpers for those who have been infected with ransomware and want to perform a thorough Haters removal.

Malware searches for software vulnerabilities to sneak into the system

To infect computers, Haters virus typically exploits various system and software vulnerabilities, so it possible that you accidentally downloaded it on your computer disguised as some legitimate-looking software update or a supposedly crucial upgrade for the operating system. Creators of ransom-based viruses are also excellent at social engineering ^[2], so they use their wits to send potential victims convincing emails containing a Macros-based Word documents which, when opened, execute the malicious script and download Haters executable on the computer. As you can see, there are quite a few ways that the virus can seize the system and it is virtually impossible to determine where and how the virus is going to hit. Having this in mind, it is recommended to keep data backups so that you’d be able to recover files in case of an emergency.

Haters removal and data recovery:

There is no denying that everyone infected with Haters virus must remove it from their devices without questions asked. The parasite poses a substantial risk of corrupting the computer system or damaging your files, regardless of whether the malware is decryptable or not. Nevertheless, when it comes to the elimination process, users rarely know where to begin. Well, the key to Haters removal is definitely the choice of proper antivirus software. Don’t even consider manual virus disposal — it is very risky! Let a professional malware-fighting software to remove Haters for you.