How to remove J ransomware virus

J ransomware corrupts targeted files with .LoveYou file extension

J ransomware is a new file-encrypting virus that uses AES cryptography and appends .LoveYou file extension to each of the targeted files. Once data encryption is over, it drops ReadMe.txt file where victims can learn about decryption possibilities.

The virus mostly aims at English-speaking computer users. However, it might also reach people in Germany, Norway^[1] and other countries all over the world.

The virus arrives on the system as J-Ransomware.exe file that might be installed on the system with the help of exploit kits or malicious spam emails. On the affected computer it might modify Windows registry in order to boot on system startup.

J virus might also delete backups and Shadow Volume Copies^[2] to make data recovery more complicated for the victims. Malware has another unique feature. It might restart the computer before launching data encryption procedure.

Once the virus reboots the computer, it starts scanning the system looking for targeted file types. It mostly aims at the most popular files, such as MS Office or OpenOffice documents, various image, audio, video and text files, databases, archives, etc.

The ransomware prevents victims from opening their files by appending .LoveYou extension. For instance, the file called “Image.jpg” after encoding will be renamed as “Image.jpg.LoveYou.” What is more, due to this suffix, malware is also known as .LoveYou file virus.

Following traditional crypto-malware behavior, it delivers a ransom-demanding message in a text document. Authors of the malware demand to pay the ransom for data recovery. However, their orders should not be followed.

After ransomware attack, we recommend staying calm and thinking about computer’s security first. Thus, you need to remove J ransomware from the device before thinking about data recovery. Malware elimination is necessary because this threat makes the system vulnerable. As a result, you won’t be able to use your computer normally and safely.

In order to delete virus from the system, you need to employ a professional security software, such as FortectIntego. If you cannot install or run automatic J removal, you will find our prepared instructions at the end of the article handy.

Distribution methods of the ransomware virus and prevention tips

J-Ransomware might be spread via exploit kits, malicious spam emails, and fake downloads. These strategies are widely used among other developers of ransomware. Thus, you should learn how to protect your device.^[3]

Cybercriminals use social engineering to trick people into opening a malicious spam email attachment or infected link. Crooks might pretend to be representatives from banks, governmental institutions, and other well-known companies.

J ransomware virus might also take advantage of outdated system and programs. Developers may use exploit kits that help to launch the attack by using security vulnerabilities.

Malware might also spread as an obfuscated program or update in torrents, P2P networks, and file-sharing sites. Thus, in order to protect your computer from this or similar cyber threats, you should:

• double-check information before opening email attachment or link;
• install updates regularly;
• choose reliable sources for downloads;
• avoid clicking suspicious links, ads and other content online.

Removal instructions of the J-Ransomware virus

The only safe way to terminate ransomware from the device is to run a full system scan with reputable security software. We recommend J ransomware removal with the help of FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. These programs are strong enough to locate and delete all malware-related entries immediately.

If you are thinking about possibilities to get rid of the virus manually, we want to discourage you from this task. We have mentioned that ransomware might modify the system and inject malicious code into legitimate processes. Thus, trying to delete such components might cause irreparable damage to the system.

However, automatic removal may not be easy as well. Sometimes file-encrypting viruses prevent from accessing security tools. If you encounter such problem, please follow the instructions below that will help to remove J ransomware successfully.