AutoIt v3 script virus (Removal Guide) - Free Instructions
AutoIt v3 script virus Removal Guide
What is AutoIt v3 script virus?
AutoIt v3 virus is malware that relies on a legitimate scripting tool
AutoIt v3 script virus is malicious software that was written with the help AutoIt[1] freeware application, which is initially used to edit scripts for use in a network environment. Unfortunately, hackers can use genuine tools to create malicious code, and that is exactly what many users that reported suspicious activity from AutoIt v3 script are facing.
Users said that they acquired the virus after downloading such files as Michael_Buble_love.torrent.zip,[2] or infected their Flash drive with the payload from the infected computer. If you encountered any suspicious activity on your computer, there is a high chance it is contaminated and should be removed with the help of our guide – so please read on. The AutoIt v3 script virus needs to be removed from the machine because this infection can damage the machine significantly.
Name | AutoIt v3 script virus |
Type | Malware |
Distribution | Infected files, unsafe websites, repacked installers, spam emails, etc. |
Symptoms | Vary, depending on the payload |
Based on | AutoIt scripting language |
Related files | Michael_Buble_love.torrent.zip, Autoitv3script.exe, WinddowsUpdater.exe |
Elimination | Use reputable security software |
Optimization | To restore Windows registry and fix damage to the system, use PC repair software ReimageIntego |
Because AutoIt v3 script virus is not a specific malware but a script, it can carry many different payloads, depending on what the hacker programmed it to be. Reddit[3] user reported that his encounter with malware started when his Flash stick got contaminated.
The initial infection was loaded into a suspicious file under the name of AutoIt v3 script.exe, and after the execution, the user noticed thousands of files being created on the hard drive.
In another instance, a user tried to download a torrent file that actually had a .zip appendix at the end. Thus, users who download movies or other media from torrent networks should be cautious.
Symptoms of the infection can vary, as it all depends on the goals of the hacker who wrote the malicious script. However, you might experience the following signs:
- Frequent errors and BSODs;
- Redirects to suspicious websites;
- Additional programs installed without warning;
- Increased CPU usage;
- Stuttering HD video or games;
- Windows registry keys altered (not immediately visible);
- Multiple entries created on the machine, etc.
Unfortunately, malware like AutoIt v3 script virus is often designed not to produce any symptoms at all, especially if it was created for data harvesting purposes. Thus, you should remove AutoIt v3 script virus with the help of reputable security software and then scan the PC with ReimageIntego in order to make sure all virus damage is eliminated.
While AutoIt v3 script virus removal might be completed automatically, experts highly discourage such actions. Those who do not possess in-depth computer knowledge should rely on professional tools that would detect malware automatically.
Something to take into consideration when considering to improve computer safety
Malware, such as trojans, worms, ransomware, rootkits,[4] and other dangerous threats can be acquired on the internet, and hackers don't even have to put much effort into its distribution, in some cases. However, most of the intrusion methods require victims' interaction in one way or another, so it all comes down to the precaution measures, and time one is prepared to put into cybersecurity.
First of all, the rule number one is acquiring powerful security software. One can argue whether or not paid AV solutions are better than free ones, but many researchers claim that non-free versions provide overall better protection from threats.
After installing reputable security software, users should also pay attention to spam emails, as they can carry parasites inside malicious attachments or include links to malware's payload. Thus, do not casually open documents, PDF, text, or similar files that are attached to the email coming from an unknown source.
Another important step to protect yourself from malware is software updates. Security patches fix bugs that would otherwise allow attackers to use exploit kits and infect vulnerable machines with malware.
Eliminate AutoIt v3 script virus from your computer
Looking at how the virus is constructed, it will mostly be a payload designed to steal data, mine crypto, spread on the network, lock up files, or does other tasks that are harmful to the victim. Such viruses usually use sophisticated obfuscation, and persistence techniques, so manual AutoIt v3 script virus removal might be almost impossible.
Instead, we suggest you download and install reputable security software that is capable of detecting malware. You can try to remove AutoIt v3 script virus with SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes. Note that some viruses interfere with AV engines, so entering Safe Mode with Networking might be necessary. You will find all the instructions below.
After you terminated the AutoIt v3 script virus, you should use ReimageIntego or similar software to repair virus damage and restore the Windows registry. These pieces can be damaged or corrupted, so your device cannot run properly. Make sure to double-check and remove the infection fully.
Getting rid of AutoIt v3 script virus. Follow these steps
Manual removal using Safe Mode
To remove AutoIt v3 script virus safely, enter Safe Mode with Networking:
Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.
Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking
Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment.
Windows 7 / Vista / XP
- Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Windows 10 / Windows 8
- Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
- Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
- On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
- Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
- Click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Go to Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Press Restart.
- Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes
Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Click on More details.
- Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
- Right-click and select Open file location.
- Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
- Delete the contents of the malicious folder.
Step 3. Check program Startup
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Go to Startup tab.
- Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
Step 4. Delete virus files
Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:
- Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
- Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:
Temporary Internet Files
Downloads
Recycle Bin
Temporary files - Pick Clean up system files.
- You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):
%AppData%
%LocalAppData%
%ProgramData%
%WinDir%
After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.
Remove AutoIt v3 script using System Restore
System Restore might also help you stop malware:
-
Step 1: Reboot your computer to Safe Mode with Command Prompt
Windows 7 / Vista / XP- Click Start → Shutdown → Restart → OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
-
Select Command Prompt from the list
Windows 10 / Windows 8- Press the Power button at the Windows login screen. Now press and hold Shift, which is on your keyboard, and click Restart..
- Now select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings and finally press Restart.
-
Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt in Startup Settings window.
-
Step 2: Restore your system files and settings
-
Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter.
-
Now type rstrui.exe and press Enter again..
-
When a new window shows up, click Next and select your restore point that is prior the infiltration of AutoIt v3 script. After doing that, click Next.
-
Now click Yes to start system restore.
-
Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter.
Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from AutoIt v3 script and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as ReimageIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes
How to prevent from getting malware
Do not let government spy on you
The government has many issues in regards to tracking users' data and spying on citizens, so you should take this into consideration and learn more about shady information gathering practices. Avoid any unwanted government tracking or spying by going totally anonymous on the internet.
You can choose a different location when you go online and access any material you want without particular content restrictions. You can easily enjoy internet connection without any risks of being hacked by using Private Internet Access VPN.
Control the information that can be accessed by government any other unwanted party and surf online without being spied on. Even if you are not involved in illegal activities or trust your selection of services, platforms, be suspicious for your own security and take precautionary measures by using the VPN service.
Backup files for the later use, in case of the malware attack
Computer users can suffer from data losses due to cyber infections or their own faulty doings. Ransomware can encrypt and hold files hostage, while unforeseen power cuts might cause a loss of important documents. If you have proper up-to-date backups, you can easily recover after such an incident and get back to work. It is also equally important to update backups on a regular basis so that the newest information remains intact – you can set this process to be performed automatically.
When you have the previous version of every important document or project you can avoid frustration and breakdowns. It comes in handy when malware strikes out of nowhere. Use Data Recovery Pro for the data restoration process.
- ^ AutoIt. Wikipedia. The Free Encyclopedia.
- ^ AutoIT V3 script. Microsoft. Community.
- ^ Autoit v3 script.exe - The shortcut virus/WinddowsUpdater.exe. Reddit. Discussion website.
- ^ Rootkit. Techopedia. Where Information Technology and Business Meet.