Haters ransomware virus. How to remove? (Uninstall guide)
Haters — a malicious computer infection under development
Haters virus is a new crypto-ransomware [1] which infects computers and runs executes an encryption process rendering numerous victim’s files unreadable. The software still seems to be in the initial stages of development. Nevertheless, its authors already feel confident enough to compare their work to the infamous Cerber virus which currently stands in the leading positions of the world’s most dangerous ransomware. Perhaps driven by the desire to achieve similar success, the extortionists refer to their creation as Cerber3Ransomware. Besides, the virus also launches data encryption process using CryptoCerber.exe or Cerber3Ransomware.exe executables. Nevertheless, the experts doubt that the hackers behind this virus have anything to do with the Cerber family. In fact, closer research of the virus has brought another ransomware group into the experts’ attention — the Stupid virus. The evidence or their connection is obvious: from the similarities in ransom note presentation to the application of the same extension “.haters” as another Stupid ransomware version Mikoyan uses. You can tell that this software is still a work-in-progress merely by looking at its ransom note. This note opens as a pop-up called Form 2 after the virus finished the data encryption and features just a few words in bold “Your Files Are Encrypted.” Below this line, there is space for the combination code and a “Decrypted” button next to it. Luckily for the users who managed to get their computers infected during this short period while the virus was active, the experts have found a way to decrypt it. It turns out that the string “masihmaubullyguaanjeng” found in the ransomware’s code is the key to software decryption. If you manage to complete data decryption successfully, you should also remove Haters virus components from your computer to prevent secondary encryption. Don’t try to perform the elimination manually, though and put some reputable antivirus software like Reimage or Plumbytes Anti-MalwareNorton Internet Security to use.
While the software is currently decryptable, it would be naive to expect it to stay harmless for too long. Ransomware is an easy way for the criminals who know at least a little bit about programming to make money. So, you can be sure they will definitely take that opportunity. Thus, you should be prepared to protect your files in case an undecryptable version of Hater hits the web. Making backup copies of your files and storing them in some secure location will guarantee that you will always be able to recover your files in case they get corrupted, damaged, or encrypted by ransomware. Proper system protection is just as important. Make sure the security software you possess is legal and updated, and if you don’t have one — obtain it immediately! As we have already mentioned, such tools are also irreplaceable helpers for those who have been infected with ransomware and want to perform a thorough Haters removal.
Malware searches for software vulnerabilities to sneak into the system
To infect computers, Haters virus typically exploits various system and software vulnerabilities, so it possible that you accidentally downloaded it on your computer disguised as some legitimate-looking software update or a supposedly crucial upgrade for the operating system. Creators of ransom-based viruses are also excellent at social engineering [2], so they use their wits to send potential victims convincing emails containing a Macros-based Word documents which, when opened, execute the malicious script and download Haters executable on the computer. As you can see, there are quite a few ways that the virus can seize the system and it is virtually impossible to determine where and how the virus is going to hit. Having this in mind, it is recommended to keep data backups so that you’d be able to recover files in case of an emergency.
Haters removal and data recovery:
There is no denying that everyone infected with Haters virus must remove it from their devices without questions asked. The parasite poses a substantial risk of corrupting the computer system or damaging your files, regardless of whether the malware is decryptable or not. Nevertheless, when it comes to the elimination process, users rarely know where to begin. Well, the key to Haters removal is definitely the choice of proper antivirus software. Don’t even consider manual virus disposal — it is very risky! Let a professional malware-fighting software to remove Haters for you.
To remove Haters virus, follow these steps:
Remove Haters using Safe Mode with Networking
An aspect of ransomware viruses that makes them even more dangerous is their ability to block antivirus software and prevent their elimination from the system. Fortunately, Windows OS has a Safe Mode function which allows to block main ransomware processes. Learn how to activate this mode below:
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Step 1: Reboot your computer to Safe Mode with Networking
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.
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Select Safe Mode with Networking 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.
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Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Networking in Startup Settings window.
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Step 2: Remove Haters
Log in to your infected account and start the browser. Download Reimage or other legitimate anti-spyware program. Update it before a full system scan and remove malicious files that belong to your ransomware and complete Haters removal.
If your ransomware is blocking Safe Mode with Networking, try further method.
Remove Haters using System Restore
Another way you can decontaminate the virus and shift it to your advantage is described in detail below:
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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.
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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.
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Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt in Startup Settings window.
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Step 2: Restore your system files and settings
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Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter.
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Now type rstrui.exe and press Enter again..
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When a new window shows up, click Next and select your restore point that is prior the infiltration of Haters. After doing that, click Next.
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Now click Yes to start system restore.
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Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter.
Bonus: Recover your data
Guide which is presented above is supposed to help you remove Haters from your computer. To recover your encrypted files, we recommend using a detailed guide prepared by 2-spyware.com security experts.If your files are encrypted by Haters, you can use several methods to restore them:
Haters decryption
You can eliminate and decrypt Haters by entering “masihmaubullyguaanjeng” to the indicated area on the ransomware locksreen. You may also use Stupid Decrypter to decrypt your data.
Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from Haters and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as Reimage, Malwarebytes Malwarebytes or Plumbytes Anti-MalwareNorton Internet Security
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References
- ^ Kathleen Richards. Even with rise in crypto-ransomware, majority do not pay. SearchSecurity. Information Security information, news and tips.
- ^ Brien Posey. Is social engineering the new alternative to ransomware?. Redmondmag. Is social engineering the new alternative to ransomware?.