How to remove Scotch Tape Locker ransomware virus

Scotch Tape Locker threatens victims with fake FBI warning

Scotch Tape Locker is a lock-screen type ransomware virus that delivers a fake message from FBI. Victims are accused of illegal activities and are asked to pay $150 fine. The good news is that this variant of FBI virus is not likely to encrypt files.

The Scotch Tape Locker virus usually enters the system when a user opens a malicious email attachment. Once inside, it makes several modifications in Windows registry in order to boot at system startup.

Currently, the ransomware is not encrypting files. However, researchers assume that it might still be in development mode. Therefore, Scotch Tape Locker might start corrupting data anytime soon. These assumptions are based on one virus feature. It might be capable of deleting Shadow Volume copies.^[1]

Typically, crypto-malware deletes these files in order to make data recovery complicated. Without these files, it’s nearly impossible to restore encrypted data with third-party software. In this way, crooks are boosting their chances to receive the ransom.

On the affected computer malware delivers a pop-up window named Scotch Tape Locker v1.0. It informs about locked computer due to the violating the US law. Victims are accused of 10 crimes:

• Downloading child porn,
• Downloading elements of Zoophilia,
• Commit rape,
• Sending spam messages containing terrorist motives,
• Promoting violence,
• Torturing children.
• Bestiality,
• Eating children,
• Sexual intercourse with children,
• Selling drugs.

Nevertheless, some of these accusations are absolutely ridiculous; seeing the logo of FBI might scare some of the users. However, we want to remind that authorities do not ask to pay the ransom in Bitcoins in order to avoid legal punishment. If you look up the Criminal law of the United States, you will see that sanctions for these crimes are different.

Authors of the Scotch Tape Locker ransomware gives each of the victim unique ID number and claim that unlock key is different of each of them. In order to get it, they are asked to transfer $150 to the provided Bitcoin address and contact them via email fbifine@protonmail.com. Indeed, this email reveals that this lock-screen message is a pure scam.

It goes without saying that you should not follow hackers’ orders. You should focus on Scotch Tape Locker removal only. After the attack, you should scan the device with reputable malware removal tool, such as FortectIntego.

If you cannot access security software and remove Scotch Tape Locker automatically, scroll down at the end of the article. There you will find instructions how to disable the virus and eliminate it from the system.

Distribution methods of the virus

The virus might be distributed via these channels:^[2]

• malicious spam emails,
• infected links on social networks,
• fake/illegal software downloads on file-sharing sites,
• malvertising.

These methods allow spreading crypto-malware all over the world, including Germany,^[3] Norway, and other European countries. Therefore, precautions remain the same:

• do not open suspicious email attachments even if it claims to be sent from a bank, governmental institution or other well-known company;
• do not open unknown links or files received from your contacts on a social network before making sure that it’s safe to do;
• do not use insecure file-sharing websites, torrents, and P2P networks;
• do not click on catchy ads even on legitimate websites.

In order to avoid ransomware attack, you should also invest in a professional security program. However, any tool can protect you 100% if you do not follow security tips yourself.

Termination of the Scotch Tape Locker virus

Scotch Tape Locker removal should be performed ASAP as you receive a misleading pop-up window. Malware might be still in-development, so it might cause more damage if you don’t terminate it on time.

Therefore, install FortectIntego, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes or another security program and run a full system scan with updated software. It’s the only safe way to get rid of this malicious program. However, if malware prevents from installing the program or scanning the system, you should check the instructions below. They will explain how to deal with these obstacles and remove Scotch Tape Locker.