The brief overview of the HAHAHA ransomware
Developers of the HAHAHA ransomware virus were quite lazy to create a brand new file-encrypting virus. In order to develop this crypto-malware, they used a code of CryptoWire which is known as an open-source ransomware[1] project. Malware researchers haven’t discovered what data encryption method it uses yet. Though, it is already known that virus corrupts files and makes them useless. HAHAHA virus aims at the widely used file types, such as videos, photos, pdf, MS Word documents, and more. In this way, it is capable of causing more damage to the computer users and have higher chances to receive the demanded amount of money. After the encryption, all targeted files have .encrypted file extension. Then, the virus launches a pop-up window and creates a “TEXT FILE.txt” file on the desktop. Pop-up and .txt file inform about ransomware attack and demand to pay the ransom in exchange of the files. Should you do that? Absolutely not! [2]Nevertheless, you do not have data backups; you should not give your money to the cyber criminals. No one can assure that hackers have a decryption software and are willing to help you. Though, it’s better to remove HAHAHA from the PC and look for the alternative ways to restore your files.
The developers of the HAHAHA virus ask to transfer 500$ in Bitcoins to the provided Bitcoin Wallet address and send an email to hugoran1@gmx.com within 72 hours. Crooks try to scare victims and tell that after the deadline all the files will be deleted. They also mention that running antivirus program might remove the virus; though, the files remain encrypted. However, we suggest scanning the computer with FortectIntego or other another malware removal program and cleaning the system. HAHAHA removal is indispensable if you want to use your computer safely again. Talking about data recovery, you can use data backups[3] or, if you don’t have them, we suggest trying additional data recovery methods at the end of this article. Hopefully, HAHAHA decryptor will be released soon, and you will be able to restore all encrypted files.
Proliferation methods of the ransomware
The HAHAHA ransomware has been spotted spreading with fake hacking tools, such as Steam Cash and BTCHacker. However, virus executable might also be distributed via malicious spam emails and their attachments, file-sharing websites or programs,[4] or via fake software downloads or updates. Thus, in order to avoid ransomware, you need to be careful and do not take any hasty actions in your inbox. Do not open spam emails, and especially, their attachments. Nevertheless, it may look like legitimate email; always double check the information before opening provided documents or clicking links.[5] What is more, always download and install programs from reliable sources, for instance, developers’ website. What is more, keep your software updated and install an antivirus program. It helps to minimize the risk of HAHAHA malware attack. However, if your computer is already infected, please read further and learn how to treat this cyber infection.
How to remove HAHAHA ransomware safely from the PC?
Eliminating file-encrypting virus manually is not a safe way to treat this cyber threat. Various virus components might be hiding in the system under safe-looking filenames. Thus, you may not remove HAHAHA ransomware, but crucial system files. This mistake might lead to the bigger and more serious problems. The only safe way to get rid of the virus is to use professional malware removal tools, such as FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. Reboot your PC to the Safe Mode with Networking and install one of the suggested programs. Update it and run a full system scan several times. It will help to eliminate malware entirely. Unfortunately, HAHAHA removal won’t decrypt your files. Though, you can try additional data recovery methods presented below.
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