How to remove Decryption Assistant ransomware virus

Definition of in-development Decryption Assistant ransomware

Decryption Assistant virus is a ransomware that spreads in the form of a fake Flash Player Update. If the victim agrees to install it, the ransomware encrypts all data stored on the computer and adds .pwned file extension to every touched file. The sample of ransomware emerged in free online malware scanning sites, and analysts quickly realized that it is an in-development ransomware variant. Identified malicious executives were not able to infect all files on the computer, but only in a C:\chicken folder, which obviously looks like a test one. There are no doubts that the virus is going to be improved shortly. This Hidden-Tear^[1] based ransomware uses AES algorithm to lock files securely, and a demands ransom paid in Bitcoins. Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency that almost all ransomware developers command victims to use to pay the ransoms^[2], and it is often blamed for accelerating the ransomware industry since it allows transferring and receiving payments anonymously. If you were infected by this ransomware, do not even consider paying the ransom. The criminals might not even be able to help you and restore your files because at the moment it seems that this virus was developed by amateurs. Therefore, we recommend you remove Decryption Assistant ransomware using FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner malware removal software.

HiddenTear ransomware that was mentioned above is an open-source virus, and it seems that it has inspired a lot of wannabe cybercriminals to start developing their very own ransomware programs. Of course, such script kiddies hardly can develop a computer program, therefore their creations are weak and can be easily decrypted (in most of the cases). At the moment, there are no known decryption tools that could unlock .pwned files, but we suggest you remain patient and wait. If you have a data backup, you can speed up the data recovery process right now. If you do not, follow instructions provided below the article. Remember that Decryption Assistant removal should be carried out before trying to decrypt your data.

Distribution of Hidden-Tear based ransomware viruses

Almost all ransomware viruses created using pieces of HiddenTear’s source code are distributed via malicious spam. Amateur ransomware developers are too inexperienced to employ techniques such as malvertising, RGP attacks or exploit kits; therefore they rely on the most basic, yet the most efficient ransomware distribution method. They send out thousands of convincing, but deceptive emails that contain malware. Typically, they conceal the malicious file by giving it a safe-looking name, for example, Invoice or Resume. If the victim gets on the hook and lets his curiosity win, the ransomware infects the system immediately. To avoid such situations, we suggest keeping clear from emails that come from unsolicited or unknown individuals.

Decryption Assistant ransomware removal methods

DecryptionAssistant is a critical program, therefore it must be removed professionally. When speaking about ransomware, we never suggest removing it manually, because such viruses do not only drop their files on the system but also perform changes on it, for example, meddle with Registry keys. To reverse the damage made by the ransomware, we suggest you remove Decryption Assistant virus using anti-malware software. Our suggested program FortectIntego can also optimize the system afterward, which we consider being a significant advantage if compared to typical anti-malware programs. However, even the most powerful programs need to be started properly, so we suggest you follow Decryption Assistant removal tutorial that we provided.