How to remove Ocelot Locker ransomware virus

Ocelot Locker ransomware virus: is this a real threat?

Ocelot Locker virus pretends to be a real ransomware^[1] virus that targets English-speaking computer users. It uses various distribution methods to infiltrate the computer and once inside it delivers a ransom note on the lock screen. The message informs that all user’s files, such as documents, videos, mp3 files, images, etc., has been encrypted with military grade encryption key. Just like any other file-encrypting virus, Ocelot Locker ransomware mentions that people need to get a decryption key that is stored in the hackers’ server. The cyber criminals demand 0.03 Bitcoins (25 USD) for this decryption key. Indeed, it’s an unusually small ransom because usually, they demand from 1 to 3 Bitcoins. It seems that the authors of Ocelot Locker are not interested in generating illegal profits; they just want to educate computer users to be more careful. When victims click on “Check for the payment” button, after a moment or two they receive another message informing that this could have been a real ransomware attack. People are encouraged not to pay the ransom^[2] for cyber criminals and think about prevention. This fake ransomware virus suggests installing antivirus programs and tells that “prevention is better than desinfection.”

Indeed, the developers of Ocelot Locker virus tell the truth. It’s better to be safe online and prevent ransomware from getting inside the computer. Strengthening computer’s protection by installing a reputable antivirus program and making data backups^[3] are the best way to minimize the risk of the attack. However, this method of educating computer users is questionable. Start Ocelot Locker removal as soon as it delivers a message about infecting your device. You can never be sure what other shady purposes hackers might have. Even though it’s a fake and educational virus, it’s still a computer infection. Remove Ocelot Locker with a help of FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. Detailed removal instructions are presented at the end of this article.

Ransomware distribution methods and how to avoid it

The primary Ocelot Locker malware distribution method is malicious spam emails^[4]. Other ransomware developers widely use this distribution technique as well. The reason is simple – people are still willing to trust all received emails in their inbox. It doesn’t matter whether an email has appeared in the spam folder or not, people too often open attached documents and let ransomware inside. Hackers might pretend to be from famous companies, governmental institutions, online shops and other businesses and urge users to open attached invoice, purchase information or other “important” document. Before opening any received document^[5], make sure that you are supposed to receive it and double check information about the sender. If the email address or content itself looks suspicious, do not open the document and contact institution directly.

However, it’s not the only way how you can get infected with Ocelot Locker ransomware. It might also be hiding under the malware-laden ad, on the infected websites or might get inside bundled with bogus software downloads or updates. For this reason, you should be careful while browsing the Internet and follow all security specialists’ tips on online safety. It’s better to stay safe than sorry!

Ocelot Locker removal instructions

Even though it’s a fake ransomware, you should still take its removal seriously. Do not try to eliminate malware manually and opt for automatic Ocelot Locker removal. It allows scanning computer’s system with professional security tools such as FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. Before running a full system scan, don’t forget to update your chosen program first. However, if you have difficulties with program’s installation, updates or system scan itself, have a look at the instructions below. They will help you to remove Ocelot Locker from the device no matter how stubborn ransomware might be.