How to remove NWA ransomware

NWA ransomware is a file locking malware that uses explorer.exe as its main executable

NWA ransomware is a data locking malware that stems from Dharma virus family. It also belongs to a long list of other variants released at a similar time, such as ETH, KARLS, 888, and others. While there are minor differences between the versions, all of the viruses are used for money extortion purposes. To achieve that, NWA ransomware authors write up a specific code that would perform a file encryption procedure once the host gets infected. The virus mainly uses AES^[1] or DES ciphers to lock up databases, pictures, videos, documents, and other personal files, which names get modified in a particular way: [filename].[original extension].id-[user ID].[dr.crypt@aol.com].NWA. Victims are also greeted with a typical ransom note FILES ENCRYPTED.txt – it explains to users what happened to their personal data and what they should do next. However, experts do not recommend following the instructions provided by hackers and taking care of NWA ransomware removal instead.

Threats like NWA ransomware do not simply appear on users' machines out of nowhere – malware authors often tackle multiple infiltration techniques in order to make the malicious scheme successful. In most cases, however, hackers rely on victims' inexperience and lack of security measures, as well as careless behavior online. Check out the second section to find out how to avoid such threats like NWA virus infection in the future.

Once the payload of NWA ransomware is executed (it is known the main dropped comes under the name explorer.exe), it performs various system changes to perform file encryption without any interruptions. A secure encryption algorithm is used to modify files, although it does not mean that they are corrupted. Imagine it as using a password to open a document – it is merely a more complicated version of such process.

NWA virus locks up a variety of files, mostly those that are personally used by users, such as .doc, .pdf, .jpg, .rar, .mpeg, .html, .avi, and others. Nevertheless, the malware also skips system and some other files (usually .exe), as hackers' main goal is not to corrupt the system, but rather receive a ransom payment from the victims.

Ransomware developers can ask for a various ransom size, as they claim, it depends on how fast users contact the crooks. NWA malware authors ask victims to use Bitcoin as a payment method, while other hackers are more keep on such digital currency as Monero^[2] or DASH.

Additionally, users are also offered a test decryption service. Allegedly, victims can upload one file (it must not contain valuable information) and hackers will decrypt it for free, simply to show that the procedure is possible. Such practice is typical among ransomware authors, as it sometimes creates a false sense of security for the NWA virus victims.

However, never contact cybercrooks. Remember, their main goal is money, and they are not obligated to send you the decryptor. Instead, remove NWA ransomware from your computer and use alternative file recovery methods. Note that not all AV engines can recognize the threat,^[3] so we suggest you employ such tools as FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner.

Take actions to protect your computer from malware

Ransomware and similar threat actors are not your average computer users, but rather sophisticated individuals who use their knowledge in coding for malicious deeds. Therefore, these people are using a variety of infection methods to spread malware around the world. It includes brute-force attacks (which recently became very popular among malware authors), spam emails, repacked or cracked software, fake updates, drive-by downloads, exploit kits, etc.

In order to protect yourself from personal files loss, compromised computer and a potential money loss, follow these simple tips from industry experts:^[4]

• Download and install modern security solutions that include real-time scanning feature;
• Patch your system and all the software installed on the device as soon as security updates are released;
• Do not get tricked by fake updates – only download them from official websites and do not believe a pop-up message embedded on the malicious site that claims the software needs updating;
• Be very careful when handling emails, especially those located in the Spam box. Email providers use built-in scanners to recognize phishing, and most of such messages are sent to the Spam box. Nevertheless, some malicious emails might get through to your Inbox, so do not open email attachments or click on links unless you are absolutely sure they are genuine;
• Do not download high-risk files, such as cracks or keygens, as well as pirated software;
• Do not click on various suspicious links that claim that your PC is infected with a virus, or you won a prize;
• Use two-factor authentication procedure, as well as a password manager for all your accounts.

Terminate the malicious activity of NWA ransomware virus

To remove NWA ransomware without too much trouble, you should enter Safe Mode with Networking environment on your Windows computer. Because ransomware usually tampers with various OS processes, it is best to enter a safe environment that temporarily disables the threat and only launches with a few fundamental drivers and processes.

Once there, employ a reputable security application to scan your device thoroughly. We suggest you use FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, or any other software that can detect and terminate .NWA file virus.

After you complete the NWA ransomware removal process, you can attempt file recovery. If you have no backups (which, unfortunately, most people forget to prepare), you can try alternative methods as listed below. While the chances of getting all files back using these means are slim, you might be able to get at least some data back.