How to remove ShinigamiLocker ransomware virus

ShinigamiLocker takes your files hostage for a Bitcoin ransom

ShinigamiLocker virus is a destructive computer program set to encrypt victim’s data with DES encryption algorithm^[1]. The virus renames original file names with eight random characters and replaces the original extension with a .shinigami file extension. Consequently, the victim finds out that files can no longer be accessed.

ShinigamiLocker ransomware then changes the desktop wallpaper with a picture that says:

You have been hacked
Your files were encrypted
Get rid of this in few steps
[Instructions on how to buy Bitcoins and send them to a particular Bitcoin wallet]
You need to pay Bitcoin worth 50$!
Any attempt on closing or deleting this software will damage your PC

Shinigami virus is executed from rANSOM.exe file (version 1.0.0.0). This executable application aims to take victim’s files hostage (including photos, videos, documents, music, other important files) and then take advantage of victim’s situation to demand a ransom.

Clearly, people cannot afford to lose their files all of a sudden, not to mention that we keep important work documents or just precious memories on our smart devices. Ransomware is a virtual extortion tool^[2] that takes these files away and asks to pay a ransom in exchange for the decryption key.

In this case, the virus demands 50 US dollars, which, if compared to sums asked by other viruses, is not that high. However, that is NOT a reason to pay it; criminals are hardly trustworthy, and they might never decrypt your files. Remove ShinigamiLocker using a tool like FortectIntego and consider trying one of the data recovery options suggested below.

NOTE. It is important to delete Shinigami malware professionally. Leaving some of its files on the system can result in serious problems such as data or private information loss. Even if you have downloaded an automatic spyware or malware removal tool, use the ShinigamiLocker removal guide presented below to prevent the virus from blocking the removal process.

Ransomware distribution explained

It is pretty clear that ransomware viruses are distributed in ways to infect computers without users’ knowledge. For this reason, they are mainly distributed using deceptive techniques that are closely related to spam, malvertising, exploit kits and phishing (according to Novirus.uk^[3]).

Fraudsters find creative ways to deceive computer users; however, their most favorite ransomware distribution technique is malicious spam. All that they need to do is to create some email accounts and bypass spam filters. They are later used for spam campaigns that deliver certain messages with attachments to victims.

If you want to be protected from ransomware, we highly suggest that you invest in a good computer security software and avoid clicking on suspicious links online. Even better, question everything! If you encountered some content online that seems suspicious, do not rush to explore it or you might have to face sad consequences.

Remove ShinigamiLocker for good

It is now time to remove ShinigamiLocker virus from your computer. Make sure that you have proper tools to complete this task. First of all, you will need to reboot your computer in a proper mode and delete the ransomware using anti-malware software then. For in-depth instructions on how to do it, please follow the instructions provided below.

After ShinigamiLocker removal, you can focus on data recovery. We have provided some options that might be helpful; however, you must remember that ransomware is a dangerous virus and it is not always possible to reverse the encryption process without having the decryption key.