Viiperware ransomware spreads via illegal downloads, infects the computer to extort the victim
Viiperware virus is a malicious program written using HiddenTear's source code[1]. It encodes user’s data and demands to pay the ransom. The encryption method used to disable file access is similar to the one used to encrypt military-grade secrets. Thus, only the person who created the virus can provide a decryption key for recovery of .viiper extension files. Helpless victims might agree to pay a €20 ransom, but we strongly recommend you NOT to do so![2]
Once the malware infiltrates on your computer, it starts data encryption and creates a new window with further details. Cybercriminals explain the situation using 3-step instructions:
- Firstly warns the victim that s/he is not able to access their files anymore;
- Secondly, informs that there is a way to recover their data – pay the ransom;
- Finally, explains that user’s computer most probably got infected by the illegal downloads or rogue ads;
The amount of money required for the decryption key is also mentioned below. If you have never encountered this malicious ransomware, it can be recognized by the extension marks .viiper added at the end of the file-names.
Even though the malware encrypts only one folder, researchers believe that this ransomware will be updated soon and corrupt all files on the computer in the future.
Keep in mind that criminals should not be trusted, and there are no guarantees that after paying the ransom you will not be asked for even more money. Therefore, if you decide to spend 20 Euros and transfer them to criminals in Bitcoin, you might simply waste a lot of time, lose your money and never receive the decryption key.
Therefore, if Viiperware virus attacks your computer, you should better focus on the elimination of it. We strongly recommend using FortectIntego security software which will quickly detect the infected files and perform a secure Viiperware removal. Later, you will be able to try to recover most of your data from back-ups stored in the cloud.
Download applications only from authorized developers
As the hackers said it themselves – the malware is distributed through illegal downloads from less than reliable sources or intentionally spread via spam emails.
To avoid the attack, you should always keep your software regularly updated. Software updates are customized by technicians who eliminate possible gaps that allow hackers to circumvent the system. In addition, you should also still follow safe browsing rules. If you are interested, you can find some of them on VirusActivity.com site[3].
Besides, never open attachments that are sent by unknown people. They might contain malicious programs and trigger automatic installations of them. For example, even if your friend sends you a message such as “lol, is that your new profile pic?”, you should contact him or her again and make sure that your friend’s account is not hacked.
Also, we advise you to avoid clicking on intrusive ads that redirect to suspicious websites. Usually, they promote scams or malicious programs that may lead to high-risk computer infections. We agree that the appearance of those advertisements is attractive, yet it is hard to determine the legitimacy of the content they promote.
Therefore, be aware of the consequences and protect valuable information by using a trustworthy security system and always back-up your files.
Tips to remove Viiper ransomware
If you have recognized that the defined malware variant infiltrated into your computer, you have two options — remove Viiperware virus automatically or manually.
We strongly recommend choosing the automatic elimination using a verified security software since you are not aware of other threads that your computer may be compromised with. As a result, you will avoid doing even more damage to your files.
However, if you opt for manual Viiperware removal, our team has prepared an extentive guide provided below.
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