How to remove Havoc ransomware virus

Havoc ransomware seems to be developed by a narcissist

Havoc virus is a typical ransomware virus; however, it appears to be developed by a programmer who loves to exalt himself. The ransomware is set to encode files stored on victim’s computer, and a close analysis shows that the author of this particular malicious program reveals a little background in the description of the virus. According to the Havoc ransomware author, which presents itself as BinaryEmperor and claims to be from a company called Royal Binarys(as much as we know, virus’ authors are not related to Royal-Binary scams^[1], the program “will bring Havoc to your PC.” The original file name of the malicious executable^[2] is Havoc.exe. The virus starts scanning the system as soon as it enters it and what it looks for is valuable data stored on the system. The program has a target list, which it uses to recognize files and mark them as files to encrypt.

Once the program finishes scanning the system and encrypting the files, it launches a ransom note^[3] in a back window. We must point out that the virus appends ._Ink.HavocCrypt file extensions to encrypted files, whereas some researchers falsely claim that it adds .HavocCrypt extensions. The ransom note, which is called Havoc Ransomware | MK II, presents requirements that the victim has to fulfil in order to get the data recovery software. According to the note, victims want to receive $150 in 48 hours, otherwise, they threaten to delete the unique decryption key that is essential in data recovery process. The victim is asked to pay the ransom in Bitcoins and then write to HavocPayday@sigaint.org to receive the Havoc decryption key. Then the victim needs to enter the decryption key in the program that displays the ransom note and then files should be decrypted.

However, understand that this is the best scenario. In reality, cybercriminals’ email can be shut down at any time and even after paying you might not be able to contact criminals, which means you will never receive the decryption key. What is more, criminals might not be willing to send you the decryption key at all. Therefore, we suggest you remove Havoc malware with anti-spyware or anti-malware programs like FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner and then import data copies from a backup drive to your computer. If you cannot remove the virus for some reason, please carefully read Havoc ransomware removal instructions that are given down below.

Dissemination methods

Knowledge about ransomware operation tricks is vital, but it is also important to understand how such malware spreads. In most cases, criminals employ the traditional ransomware distribution method – malspam^[4] (malware spam). They create various trustworthy-looking emails and attach malicious files to them, hoping that the target will open them. If the victim opens such files, the computer gets infected with Havoc crypto-ransomware instantly. However, another trick that helps to convince victims to open malicious files is software bundling. So, you have to be aware of fake software updates that are often pushed via shady third-party websites. In most cases, dishonest sites urge users to install fake Flash, Java, or other well-known software updates^[5] even if the computer doesn’t need them at all. Think twice before installing unknown free programs, too – they can be dangerous!

How can I remove Havoc malware?

Ransomware always wreaks havoc on victim’s computer, and Havoc virus is no different. This virus aims to extort money from miserable computer users, and sadly, it uses quite advanced encryption method and other technologies that can prevent malware researchers from creating a free decryption tool. We suggest you stay up-to-date with the latest news and be patient because Havoc decrypter might be released in the future. In the meantime, you must remove Havoc virus and make sure that a similar virus never gets to enter your computer system again. Havoc removal tutorial is presented below, as well as some data recovery tips.