FCP Ransomware does not encrypt files; it only renames them

FCPRansomware is a crypto-malware that aims at Chinese[1] computer users. However, judging from the ransom note called “READ_ME_HELP_ME.txt” malware might also attack English-speaking users. According to the criminals, the only way to recover files is to obtain their offered decryptor, but that's not true.
The ransom note is not the only file downloaded after the attack. FCP Ransomware also installs a decryption software and numerous malicious files that are responsible for other harmful tasks on the computer. Nevertheless, data encryption is the main task of the virus; it also affects various system processes, so its removal should not be delayed in order to maintain smooth and safe computer’s work.
According to the bilingual ransom note, victims have to pay the ransom in order to restore their files. The FCP Decryptor should start automatically. If not, users have to launch it themselves. They can find program file on the desktop. The blue program window gives brief instructions what steps victims have to take.
First of all, FCP virus allows choosing decryptor’s language from Chinese and English. Crooks allow recovering few files for free. It seems that criminals want to give a guarantee that they actually have working decryptor. However, in order to restore all files, victims have to buy an “Advanced Edition.” But crooks do not provide the set size of the ransom.
However, the analysis of FCP revealed that malware does not encrypt files. It just renames them. Therefore, you should not follow hackers’ instructions. The decryptor might just rename back targeted files. However, paying the ransom for this task is not a wise decision. After ransomware attack, you should focus on virus removal and protect your machine from possible attacks in the future.
FCPRansomware removal has to be performed with reputable security software. Despite the fact that it cannot harm the files, it’s still a complicated cyber infection that should be terminated properly. Ransomware might affect important system processes and delete these entries might be nearly impossible without causing damage.
If you are looking for a tool to remove FCPRansomware, take our advice and choose FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. These security programs can detect and eliminate all virus-related files. If you have problems with anti-malware installation or system scan, you can check our prepared instructions below.

The main distribution methods of the ransomware viruses
There are numerous ways how your PC can get infected with a file-encrypting virus. The majority of these cyber threats are distributed using the same strategies:
- malicious spam emails;[2]
- malvertising;
- fake/illegal downloads;
- exploit kits.
Bear in mind that any security software cannot protect you 100% if you don’t take any precautions yourself. To avoid FCPRansomware and similar cyber threats, you should:
- not open spam emails;
- double-check the information before opening email attachments;[3]
- not click on eye-catching and aggressive and, especially, delivered on high-risk websites;
- not download illegal or unknown files, programs, and other content;
- install all available software updates.
Elimination of the FCPRansomware virus
After ransomware attack, you should employ professional security software and run the system scan ASAP. There’s no need to keep ransomware on the device because it only makes the system vulnerable.
Therefore, we recommend FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes for FCPRansomware removal. If malware prevents you from installing security software, you should disable it. The instructions below the article will show you how it’s done.
Once you remove FCPRansomware the virus, you will have a bunch of renamed files. Therefore, you will have to spend some time with cleaning the chaos. However, if you find some of the files impossible to open, you should check data recovery options below.
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