How to remove Schwerer ransomware virus

Schwerer virus definition and working principles

Schwerer virus is an Autoit-based ^[1] cyber infection which belongs to the large and dangerous malware family known as crypto-ransomware ^[2]. In particular, the parasite uses a complex AES encryption algorithm to render victims’ files inaccessible and establishes data recovery rules which almost always involve paying a ransom. This time, the extortionists hope to receive €150 for every infected machine. Luckily, the security experts have managed to find a workaround for this virus, so the victims can now get back their files for free. You will find a download link to this free decryptor below. But first, you should take care of Schwerer removal from the infected computer. The most important thing is to terminate the ransomware files such as Pawje.exe to stop further data encryption. Don’t do that manually — you may fall into traps that the hackers may have left there on purpose and eventually damage your computer even more. We recommend employing FortectIntego or similar specialized software to perform the virus elimination safely.

The initial Schwerer ransomware variant may no longer be a threat to the users. Nevertheless, this does not mean that the virus creators will stop then and there. It is likely that they will continue developing the malware and eliminating the flaws that initially led to the virus decryption ^[3]. Thus, you should be prepared. Learn how to recognize the virus and how to remove it from your computer.

One of the main attributes that help differentiate between ransomware infections are their ransom notes. You will know you are infected with Schwerer if you see the following note on your screen:

All your computer file were encrypted with AES, only we can restore your files.
How to restore files : *****
Files encrypted : [number of encrypted files]
1. Send email to 897698@mail2tor.com containing your personal identifier (it is below)
2. We will send you a Bitcoin address, you must send 150€ to it within 3 days.
IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND BITCOIN EMAIL WILL CONTAIN INFORMATIONS
3. Once full amount is sent you email us again. (make sure to contain key)
A. We will send you key and you will paste into textbox below, that will restore files.
Your Identifier: [random characters]
Restore key: *****
[Restore files]

You should remember, though, that in different virus versions the ransom notes may also vary. So may the email address 897698@mail2tor.com that in this note is indicated as the main channel for the victim-criminal communication. Regardless of what these notes may say or look like, you should take action as soon as you find out that your files have been encrypted. Remove Schwerer and recover your files using the free decrypter.

Ransomware infiltration techniques:

Schwerer, like most ransomware viruses, has a tendency to infect computers through spam ^[4]. In particular, we’re talking about malicious spam attachments that may be delivered to your inbox as telecommunication notifications, speeding tickets and any other information that could grab your attention and make you click on it. In truth, such attachments carry a malicious executable designed to download ransomware on your computer. The received files may look like legitimate PDF or Word documents, but examining them more closely would reveal a hidden .exe extension at the end ^[5]. Stay away from files like these and delete them from your computer ASAP!

Will Schwerer removal fix my PC?

Despite how convenient it may be, Schwerer removal will not solve all of your problems. Simply deleting the virus from your computer will not fix the inaccessible files. For that, you will have to use special tools, such as the already mentioned decryptor. Please note that the decryptor should only be put to use only when the system is completely clean from the malicious virus components. Otherwise, the files may be encrypted repeatedly or become permanently damaged. Thus, before launching the decryptor, investigate your device with the help of a reliable antivirus software.