How to remove CSGO ransomware

CSGO ransomware is a fake virus that does not encrypt files

CSGO ransomware is another bogus virus that deems that all the files on users’ PC are encrypted, and the only way to get them back is by playing Counterstrike: Global Offensive for five hours. However, the data on the computer does not get encrypted, and the demands of cybercriminals should be simply ignored.

CSGO ransomware was first noticed in April 2018, together with MC ransomware, which demands to play Minecraft in return for the alleged decryption of files. However, just as PUBG ransomware, it does not do much apart from dropping a pop-up window.

CSGO virus can be hardly called ransomware as it does not fulfill the purpose – the encryption of files. However, it is important to remove CSGO ransomware as soon as it is detected on the PC, as it can render it susceptible to other malware^[1] attacks.

The pop-up windows shows the following explanation:

OOPS. All your important data is encrypted

How this happens???
This happens because your computer has been infected by CSGO Ransomware

How can i get my files back???
If you want to get your files back you need to play 5 hours of csgo and then you get your exclusive decrypting key waht you can use to decrypt your files

Who is behind all this???
Behind of all this madness is BeaverSquad group of professional coders and gamers

Played Time: 00:00:00:00
Status: Waitting for CSGO

Cybercrooks are being quite arrogant calling themselves “professional coders” as the CSGO virus is coded really poorly. As explained above, it does not encrypt any files. Second of all, it does not even detect if the CSGO game is present on the machine.

The only feature the malware is looking for is the name of the executable file. Therefore, even renaming any .exe into csgo.exe will do the trick and trigger the timer on the lock screen to go off.

It is not clear what motive of BeaverSquad and NATroutter (authors) is, as the demanded ransom is not the usual BTC payment. It is safe to assume that hackers have nothing to do with the most popular first-person shooter creators – Valve. Therefore, crooks do not benefit financially.

As for now, it is evident that the authors are amateurs. However, even if the CSGO ransomware is created as a joke, it should not be treated lightly. It is highly likely that one day the new variant might come out and actually encrypt all files or threaten to destroy them. Thus, do not delay CSGO ransomware removal – use a robust anti-malware tool, such as FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes.

Ransomware can be injected via contaminated email attachments, and not only

With ever-changing technologies and improved security measures, cybercriminals also look for different methods of virus distribution. Nevertheless, many infections manage to slip through security precautions and infect PCs. Unfortunately, it is most likely due to user’s fault.

Security experts^[2] segregate these most prominent ransomware distribution methods:

Malicious email attachments. As soon as the file attached asks you to enable macro function, you should not allow it and delete the email. Overall, users should avoid opening emails from unknown sources or click on links provided inside.

Illegal or other file-sharing sites. Repacked or cracked software^[3] may be infected with malicious ransomware code. Also, pirating software is wrongful and might land you in jail.

Malicious links. It is vital not to explore websites that you might be redirected to, especially if you have adware installed on your machine. Close down your browser and never click on any offers or deals, even if they look legitimate.

Exploit kits. This piece of software is capable of detecting vulnerabilities within certain programs. The developers of genuine software often patch their products to fix these bugs. So, the immediate update can save you from attacks related to exploits.

Eliminate CSGO ransomware using powerful security software

We do not suggest trying manual CSGO ransomware removal. Even though the virus is bogus, it is still affecting your system and some of your system settings may be modified. Thus, we suggest employing robust anti-virus software which can take care of everything automatically.

Do not forget that the CSGO virus might block the normal startup of the security program. Therefore, enter Safe Mode with Networking as explained below. Furthermore, we provide instructions for file recovery, in case the ransomware becomes fully functional one day. Once that happens, remember that you need to remove CSGO virus before proceeding with file recovery procedure.