What should you know about MemeLocker ransomware virus?
Malware researchers have recently spotted a new in-dev ransomware[1] known as MemeLocker virus. According to the latest research data, this crypto-malware might be based on the HiddenTear open-source project. Researchers are still investigating this cyber infection; though, you should be aware that soon this extortionist might start active attacks. The malicious payload memelocker.exe might be distributed via malicious email attachments, fake software downloads and updates, infected ads, etc. On the affected computer, the virus is supposed to lock affected computer’s screen and display a red window informing about the hijack. However, MemeLocker ransomware is designed to take user’s files to hostage. After the infiltration, it scans device and encodes targeted data using the strong cipher. There’s no doubt that it aims at the widely used MS Office or OpenOffice documents, various image, audio or video files, databases, and other popular file types. Corrupting these files boosts chances to swindle the money from the victims who doesn’t back up. Although the ransomware hasn’t been spreading world-widely yet, we want to remind about a necessity to make copies of your files[2] and store them on the external drives. In case of the attack, you will have to remove MemeLocker and don’t worry about corrupted data.
Authors of all ransomware viruses have the same goal – to get money from the victims. After data encryption, the MemeLocker virus also delivers ransom note where people know how much time they have to transfer the demanded sum of Bitcoins. However, we want to stress out that paying the ransom might lead to the data loss or other cyber infections.[3] Developers may not have working decryption software or provide you an infected tool. What is more, they might also ask for more money. MemeLocker removal is recommended to avoid a bigger damage. Scanning computer with FortectIntego or other anti-malware software assures that cyber criminals won’t steal your money or personal data.
Is it possible to avoid ransomware virus?
If you be careful enough and follow security experts’ advice,[4] you should not encounter MemeLocker ransomware or other crypto-malware. However, malware developers become better and better with tricking people into opening suspicious email attachments or strange links, downloading bogus programs or fake updates, and encouraging clicking on malware-laden ads. Thus, we recommend making data backups and updating them regularly. In case of emergency, they will be crucial. Backups protect you from paying the ransom for cyber criminals and using their shady software. Developers might launch various malicious spam email campaigns to spread MemeLocker virus widely. Be aware of those shady emails that have attached files. The content of the message might express the urge to open PDF, Word, Excel or other safe-looking document and confirm particular details. We want to point out that crooks are good at social engineering; so, you should be vigilant all the time. Before opening any email attachment, double-check the information whether you are supposed to receive such a message. If not, someone tries to get your computer infected. Nevertheless, MemeLocker malware hasn’t started spreading actively yet; you should be aware that similar cyber infections might be hiding under misleading or “too good to be true” pop-ups, ads or banners. Thus, before clicking on the eye-catching commercial offer, evaluate the possible risk of infection. We want to point out that cyber criminals are capable of placing malicious ads even on popular and well-known websites.[5] For ransomware prevention, you should always keep all software up-to-date. Enable automatic update function to avoid misleading notifications online. Besides, if you need a new program, always choose publisher’s websites instead of unknown third-party sources.
What should I do if I get infected with MemeLocker ransomware virus?
If this extortionist finds the way to your computer, you should not think about anything else but its removal. It doesn’t matter whether you have data backups or not, MemeLocker removal is the most important task. Malware makes your computer vulnerable and easily accessible for other cyber infections. Besides, we have already told you that paying the ransom does not guarantee safe and successful data recovery. Thus, remove MemeLocker from the device using antivirus or malware removal programs, and then try alternative data recovery methods. For virus elimination we recommend using such tools as FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. If you have problems with installing or accessing security software, please follow the instructions below.
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