How to remove R3store ransomware virus

R3store threatens to damage the computer if victims don’t pay the ransom

R3store is a new file-encrypting virus that aims at Windows operating system users. Malware is based on Hidden Tear ransomware project and uses a strong encryption algorithm to damage files on targeted computer. During data encryption, it appends .r3store file extension to each of the affected file. It aims at various text files, pictures, media files, databases, etc. Generally, it targets the most popular and widely used files to cause bigger damage to the victims and encourage them to pay the ransom. When users are prevented from opening their personal data, R3store ransomware drops READ_IT.txt file to each folder that includes encrypted files. What is more, it runs a pop-up window with a ransom-demanding message. Crooks ask to send $450 in Bitcoins^[1] to provided Bitcoin wallet address. Once users pay the ransom, they have to click the big button saying “I paid, Give me my files back!” and recover their files. However, it may not happen. It’s unknown if authors of the ransomware actually have working decryptor and are going to keep their word. Undoubtedly, cyber criminals are unreliable people. For this reason, it’s better to remove R3store and protect a device from other problems.

On the affected computer, R3store also makes few changes on the system. One of its tasks is to make sure that it runs when users start his or her computer. Thus, ransomware always works in the background. It uses computer’s resources and makes the system weaker. Such cyber threats are often capable of installing other malicious programs and causing more problems. Once it strengthens its persistence, it starts scanning the system looking for the targeted files. When they are locked with strong cipher, R3store delivers a ransom-demanding window. Crooks try to scare people and encourage them to pay the ransom by telling that there’s any other way to get back their files and computer. The horrible message includes buttons that cover information about possible payment methods, the list of encrypted files and information how to buy Bitcoins. As we already mentioned, this does not guarantee that your files will be recovered. That’s why we recommend R3store removal. It protects your PC from other dangers and your money from being wasted for a useless cyber crime.

Ransomware uses tricky methods to infiltrate the device

Authors of R3store use numerous strategies to spread this file-encrypting virus. These methods include infected email attachments,^[2] fake updates, bogus software downloads, and malvertising. Thus, users are tricked to click or install a malicious file. Malware executable might arrive as safely looking email attachment that pretends to be an invoice, statement or another important document. Ransomware executable might also be installed in the form of “crucial” software update. Usually, such updates appear in pop-ups and other online ads. R3store hijack the system pretending to be a useful program that is distributed on various file-sharing sites and networks. Thus, in order to avoid crypto-malware, you need to browse the web carefully and think twice before clicking on various content.

Guidelines for R3store removal

File-encrypting viruses are complex programs that need proper treatment. In order to remove R3store safely from the system, you have to employ a professional malware removal program, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. Before installing our recommended tool, you may need to reboot the computer to the Safe Mode with Networking (instructions are presented below). It might be necessary if ransomware prevents from installing security tools. After installing the program, we suggest scanning the system several times in order to make sure that all malicious components are deleted entirely from the system. After R3store removal, you can use data backups to recover your files. If you do not have them, please try our presented alternative recovery methods presented below.