How to remove Balbaz ransomware virus

Creators of the Balbaz demands $200 in exchange for data decryption key

Balbaz is a file-encrypting virus that is based on the HiddenTear open-source project.^[1] The virus uses the AES encryption algorithm and appends .WAmarlocked to each of the targeted files, which restricts all the access to them by the victim. Finally, it delivers ransom notes in two different files:

• READ_IT.txt
• Ransomware BALBAZ 1.00 program window, which also contains a timer that lasts sever days.

As evident, cybercriminals' main goal is to make users pay the fee so that they could restore their files and convert them into a usable state once again. However, paying criminals is exceptionally risky, as one can not guarantee that the attackers will keep their promises and the transaction of a cryptocurrency is made.

The TXT file informs about hacked computers and encrypted files. Users are asked to send Bitcoins in order to get a decryption code if they want to get back access to the data:

This computer has been hacked
Your personal files have been ecrypted. Send me BTC or food to get decryption passcode.
After that, you’ll be able to see your beloved files again.
With love… Hidden Tear Project :’)

The program window imitates the ransom note delivered by WannaCry. The ransom note starts says that users have to send $200 within 7 days. Later the private decryption key will be destroyed. However, it’s better to remove Balbaz from the device and sacrifice your files than to risk losing your money for the unknown decryption software. Besides, a decryptor might be created later so you could recover your files for free sometime later.

After the attack, a Decryptor is installed on the computer as well. Users can find it as a @balbazDecryptor@.exe file. However, it does not work until victims pay the ransom. However, no one can assure that this tool actually works or if hackers are willing to keep their word.

However, data recovery without a secret decryption key might be impossible. The virus can delete Shadow Volume Copies by executing this command:

vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet

Deletion of these files means that data recovery is nearly impossible with third-party tools. Therefore, the only possible way to restore the data safely is to use backups. If you do not have them, there’s still hope for you too. Ransomware might fail to delete Shadow Volume Copies, and other tools might help restore at least some of your files.

However, before getting back access to the files, you should get rid of the malicious program first. For the removal process, you have to employ professional malware elimination software, such as SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. To repair damaged system files and components, use FortectIntego.

Ways crypto-malware spreads

The virus has already infected several computers in the United States. However, some reports claim that their attacks were also held in Hungary^[2] and Bulgaria. Malware spreads as an obfuscated hidden-tear.exe file via:

• emails,
• social networks;
• file-sharing websites;
• freeware.

To avoid infiltration of ransomware virus, you should act smart while browsing the web.^[3] Never open links or files that seem suspicious or you did not expect to receive them. Staying away from questionable file-sharing sites, torrents or illegal downloads also helps to prevent ransomware attack.

Balbaz deletion instructions

Ransomware removal is performed with anti-virus or anti-malware software only. Ransomware can modify the Windows registry and install numerous malicious components or affect legitimate processes. Therefore, attempts to get rid of these issues might end up with bigger damage to the system.

In order to remove Balbaz safely, we recommend choosing SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. The virus can block from security software installation or system scan, so you may need to disable it first by restarting the PC to Safe Mode with Networking (instructions below).