Main characteristics of the BitStak ransomware:
Even though BitStak virus belongs to the family of ransomware viruses which are often deemed as one the most dangerous viruses on the web, this particular cyber threat significantly falls behind compared to more sophisticated creations such as Cerber or SamSam ransomware. Moreover, the virus experts have found that the infection features a rather amateur script and managed to decrypt the virus within hours of its initial release. The decryption tool is now freely available online. Despite the poor programming, the virus seems to be working similarly to other ransomware programs. It blocks the access to the user’s personal data by encrypting it with a very intricate algorithm and then asks the victim to pay up for the ability to decrypt them. Luckily, with the already mentioned decryption tool, the locked files can be recovered without having to pay a penny to the ransomware creators. What is left to do is to remove BitStak from your computer. You can do that using trustworthy antivirus software such as FortectIntego.
Overall, this ransomware is considered to be a low-end program. However, it can sure give you a scare when it takes over your computer. It will lock your personal data, such as the Office documents, pictures, video material, etc. and once the encryption process is done, appends .bitstak extension to the files. And not only that. The virus will also replace the filenames and folder titles with a jumble of letters so you will not be able to identify what data was encrypted. Another interesting fact about this program is that it requires a considerably small ransom for the file decryption. While other ransomware usually demand around 1 BitCoin for the file recovery key, BitStak only asks for 0.07 (~$45). However, regardless of the small ransom, we do not recommend paying up because it might only motivate the novice hacker to continue working on some more destructive creations.
What are the typical ways ransomware infect computers?
BitStak ransomware, or any other viruses, take over computers if their owners act carelessly online. Such reckless behaviour may include clicking on random links, downloading unknown software as well as succumbing to random offers or lottery propositions online. These are among the most common places ransomware viruses may hide. Also, you can find one of these nasty infections in your email, disguised as an invoice, speeding ticket, online purchase information or other important-looking correspondence. Antivirus utilities are usually successful at determining unsafe downloads but sometimes a new version of the virus or some obfuscated infection can bypass this protection without being detected. That is why you need to be careful with your browsing and learn how to differentiate suspicious content from the legitimate one.
How can I clean my PC from BitStak?
As we have already pointed out, BitStak can be easily decrypted. However, it is important to note that after you recover your files, you should remove BitStak from your computer immediately. Even though its is a low-end program, it is still malicious, thus keeping it installed on the system is unadvisable. It is also not recommended deleting the virus manually- this may cause unnecessary damage to your computer. What you should do, though, is to scan your device with an antivirus software which will ensure a quick and safe BitStak removal. You should also remember that software has to be updated to the latest version available for it to perform properly.
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