How to remove Gw3w ransomware

Gw3w ransomware – one of B2DR virus versions demanding a ransom after files' encryption

Gw3w is a high-risk ransomware that is designed to infiltrate the system unknowingly. The research has shown that it's one of the versions of B2DR ransomware. This virus uses AES-256 encryption algorithm and appends “.reycarnasi1983@protonmail.com.gw3w” file extension to targeted data. Previous versions add “.ssananunak1987@protonmail.com.b2fr”; “.bronmerkberpa1976@protonmail.com.b2dr”; “.setimichas1971@protonmail.com.b4wq” suffixes. When ransomware locks files, it demands to contact criminals using email or TOR network.

Gw3w virus usually gets into Windows computer when a user opens a malicious email attachment. Once malware payload is dropped and executed, it starts making system changes in order to boot on system startup and remain as soon as possible on the device.

Furthermore, Gw3w ransomware begins the most important task – file encryption. It scans the system looking for the targeted data. It locks all files strong AES encryption and makes them useless. After the successful encryption virus places ransom message file “ScrewYou.txt“ on every folder that has encrypted files:

Ask how to restore your files by email reycarnasi1983@protonmail.com

Use only gmail.com, yahoo.com, protonmail.com.
Messages written from other mail services we can not get.

We always respond to messages. If there is no answer within 24 hours, then write us with another email service.

As you can see from the extract, creators of Gw3w ask to contact them via email and promise to respond immediately. However, they also give alternative solution for those who are willing to do what they ask but did not receive the answer in one day time:

If within 24 hours you have not received a response, you need to follow the following instructions:

a) Download and install TOR browser: [link removed]
b) From the TOR browser, follow the link: [link removed]
c) Register your e-mail (Sign Up)
d) Write us on e-mail: [link emoved]
ATTENTION: e-mail (reycarnasi1983@torbox3uiot6wchz[.]onion) accepts emails, only with e-mail registered in the TOR browser at torbox3uiot6wchz[.]onion

Virus developers suggest you contact them by the given email address and then you can allegedly receive your decryption key. Interesting the fact that these cybercriminals want you to use specific email services. Although, do not contact developers of Gw3w ransomware virus in any way because they can take your money and ignore you after. This means that you lose your money and can be at risk for other malicious malware.

This virus is not just a scam,^[1] it can do severe damage. After the cyber attack, your computer becomes vulnerable, so other cyber threats might easily sneak into the system. This is the biggest reason you should remove Gw3w ransomware ASAP. Additionally, while the virus resides on the system, you cannot safely plug in any external drives because malware can affect them too. Hence, you may lose copies of the important files too.

Cybersecurity specialists from Uirusu.jp^[2] recommend you to use proper tools for Gw3w ransomware removal. Anti-malware programs like FortectIntego can be the best solution here because malware like this can contain other tools or applications that change your Windows system Registry key or even more.

Be careful with received emails – they might be spreading malware

Usually, you can spot potentially dangerous spam emails by their shady or aggressive commercial offers. However, macro viruses,^[3] such as ransomware-type cyber threats, can be hidden in safe-looking files, f.e., Microsoft Word documents. This means that when you open an attachment from letters like this, you immediately get malware on the system. It is essential to be cautious while browsing through your emails.

Even so, you should delete all of those suspicious emails without opening and clean your email boxes occasionally. That clickable content, deals, offers are mostly there to grab your attention and trick into installing malicious content on your machine. We want to remind about the importance to double-check the information before opening any file added to the email.

Get rid of Gw3w ransomware and try to recover your files

You should use anti-malware tools if you want to remove Gw3w ransomware correctly. This fact is important because professional tools can eliminate every little ransomware addition and piece of malware that may have been brought to your PC. Trusting programs like FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes can be vital here.

We highly recommend focusing on Gw3w ransomware removal instead of immediately looking for the ways to decrypt or restore data. However, decryption tools are not available. The only possibility to restore your files is to use backups. Do not plug in any drive to a computer that has not been cleaned yet. You should back all of your data occasionally because if you do not, file recovery can get very difficult. We have a couple of alternative methods that might help down below.