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Easy steps to get rid of Win Erx03 (video guide included)

by Julie Splinters - - | Type: Adware

Win Erx03 Removal Guide

What is Win Erx03?

Win Erx03 is a scam campaign that uses fake error messages to scare people

Win Erx03 scamThis is a fake alert that prompts users to "fix" their systems with the help of bogus tool

Win Erx03 is a scam message that tries to intimidate users and make them believe their Windows OS is damaged and needs fixing immediately. While the notification attempts to imitate legitimate alerts displayed by Microsoft, it is browser-based, which means that users can only encounter it after landing on a malicious website while browsing the web on Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or another web browser.

Cybercriminals behind the hoax try to make visitors believe that their computer has crashed due to virus infection and that they need to press the “Update” button to install unknown software on their machines, which would allegedly fix the problem for good.

If you get tricked by the Win Erx03 scam and proceed with the provided instructions, you could end up downloading and installing adware, a browser hijacker, or malware on your computer. This way, you might also be convinced into spending money on scamware, or provide sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details, to cybercriminals.

While redirects to websites displaying the fake alert can be encountered randomly, there could be an already installed adware on your system causing this unwanted browser behavior. Furthermore, the developers have started using Cloudfront to load their fake alerts (ads have mostly been coming from D30q6395bxosug.cloudfront.net). The main reason for the appearance of the virus is a malicious JavaScript[1] that is embedded in unsafe sites.

SUMMARY
Name Win Erx03
Type Scam/fake error/phishing/malware/adware
Targeted system Windows OS
False claim Cybercriminals create a fake error code, along with a fake message that claims that viruses were found on the system and that window is damaged. They then offer to download potentially dangerous software in order to “fix” this error
Main dangers Malware infection, personal information disclosure, financial losses
Cause JavaScript on malicious websites or adware
Elimination To stop malicious ads from being displayed via your web browser, employ an ad-blocking browser extension. If you suspect that your device might be infected with adware, you can follow the instructions below to eliminate it thoroughly
Optimization Scan your system with FortectIntego if you experience any errors after eliminating all malware from your system

There are plenty of technical support scams in the wild, claiming thousands of victims each day. While the attributes and delivery measures might differ slightly, all of them operate in a very similar manner – they intimidate and scare users, threatening with some type of consequences, in the meantime providing the ultimate “solution” for the non-existent problem. Crooks often employ non-existent Windows error codes to make the scam more believable – Error # WINDOWS-PORN-91, Error code # MS-6F0EXFE, or ERROR # 0x6a4-0xf9fx3999 are just a few examples.

The fake error alert scam in-depth

According to security researchers,[2] online scams like Win Erx03 on Windows 10 are designed to make users download bogus software.[3] Unfortunately, such applications can be harmful to the system. For that reason, under no circumstances, you should click “Update” as the executable can be launched straight away. Instead, close down your Google Chrome or another browser that you are using and get rid of fake alerts by eliminating the cause.

The error reads as follows:

Your Windows system is damaged
Windows Version: Windows 10
Please, pay attention: Your version of software is damaged and obsolete. As a result, all system files are automatically deleted: 0 seconds
Important: Click on the “Update” button to install the newest software to scan and protect your files from being deleted

Additionally, a pop-up message might also appear, which claims:

Windows Firewall has detected that you have not updated your Windows system. It remains damaged and vulnerable. **Do not leave this page until you have updated your system software.**

While these statements are a hoax, many users who do not have adequate computer knowledge might not be aware of this being a fake. Your system files cannot be deleted that easily because Windows has certain precautionary measures set in place. While some malware could modify or delete files, it would definitely not be announced in the pop-up message.[4] For that reason, many users instantaneously recognize that the Win Erx03 popup is fake.

Win Erx03 messageThe false message is a scam that can lead to malware infections

If you encounter Win Erx 03 virus error occasionally, you do not need to do anything special, simply ignore it. Installing such applications like AdBlock or similar could block many malicious ads and prevent the pop-up from showing up again. However, if you suffer from persistent redirects, intrusive ads, a slow browser, and similar issues, you should remove Win Erx03 virus by uninstalling suspicious entries as it has nothing in common with Microsoft[5] or other companies that it impersonates. You will find full instructions below.

In case you already clicked “Update” and installed something, you should scan your machine with anti-malware software, as most of malicious software cannot be eliminated manually. Afterward, we recommend using FortectIntego to fix the damage done to the PC. All components related to Win Erx 03 scam appearance should be removed, otherwise, the program might renew itself in a short period of time.

Note that there is no reason for postponing Win Erx03 removal on your computer as this program is created for illegitimate purposes only. If you want to be sure that the rogue program is bombarding fake alerts, we advise scanning your computer system with a reliable computer tool that will show you true results. Once the scan is finished, you should see that there are no errors or malware to the ones that were provided by the scam.

Win Erx03 errorThis fake error contents vary - sometimes crooks claim that Windows needs to update

Deceiving content online leads to various attacks

Potentially unwanted programs usually spread with the help of software bundling – a technique that allows freeware developers to hide optional components within the installation wizard of the program. While the information about the additional programs is provided, it is usually hidden under the Advanced/Custom installation setting, which most users skip and go for the Recommended/Quick mode.

Another trick used is the pre-selected boxes that users might not notice if they click “Next” several times. Therefore, pick Advanced settings and scrutinize the installation steps to avoid getting tricked. Additionally, it is also as important to pick legitimate download sources for the programs. Third-party websites are filled with adware[6] and other PUPs, although “reputable” download sites like Download.com or Cnet are filled with bundled software.

Remove the infection that causes issues and Win Erx03 alerts

Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent persistent ads from showing up on your browsers. To remove Win Erx03 virus, you should first check for adware on your machine. You can find full instructions below. However, you can also rely on security software that specializes in detecting and eliminating potentially unwanted programs automatically. These programs will ensure you that the elimination will be finished fast and successfully.

If you checked your machine for unwanted applications and did not find any, we suggest you use an ad-blocking application for Win Erx03 removal from your browsers. This method can effectively prevent bogus messages from appearing while browsing the web. This is a good option if wanted to avoid ads that show up on specific websites only. However, make sure your system is not infected first.

Win Erx03 PUPThe potentially unwanted application may appear in a software bundle

The video removal guide for the malware

If you spotted the fake alert on your browser, note that it should be terminated before it forces system crashes and redirects to unapproved domains. Those who are struggling with Win Erx03 elimination should check our video guide explaining how to get rid of the virus from the machine completely. The video will guide you through the entire elimination process. Click here to view it:

You may remove virus damage with a help of FortectIntego. SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner and Malwarebytes are recommended to detect potentially unwanted programs and viruses with all their files and registry entries that are related to them.

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Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Fortect, try running SpyHunter 5.
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Getting rid of Win Erx03. Follow these steps

Uninstall from Windows

Instructions for Windows 10/8  machines:

  1. Enter Control Panel into Windows search box and hit Enter or click on the search result.
  2. Under Programs, select Uninstall a program. Uninstall from Windows 1
  3. From the list, find the entry of the suspicious program.
  4. Right-click on the application and select Uninstall.
  5. If User Account Control shows up, click Yes.
  6. Wait till uninstallation process is complete and click OK. Uninstall from Windows 2

If you are Windows 7/XP user, proceed with the following instructions:

  1. Click on Windows Start > Control Panel located on the right pane (if you are Windows XP user, click on Add/Remove Programs).
  2. In Control Panel, select Programs > Uninstall a program. Uninstall from Windows 7/XP
  3. Pick the unwanted application by clicking on it once.
  4. At the top, click Uninstall/Change.
  5. In the confirmation prompt, pick Yes.
  6. Click OK once the removal process is finished.

Remove from Microsoft Edge

Clean your Microsoft Edge browser from all unwanted add-ons by performing these instructing steps:

Delete unwanted extensions from MS Edge:

  1. Select Menu (three horizontal dots at the top-right of the browser window) and pick Extensions.
  2. From the list, pick the extension and click on the Gear icon.
  3. Click on Uninstall at the bottom. Remove extensions from Edge

Clear cookies and other browser data:

  1. Click on the Menu (three horizontal dots at the top-right of the browser window) and select Privacy & security.
  2. Under Clear browsing data, pick Choose what to clear.
  3. Select everything (apart from passwords, although you might want to include Media licenses as well, if applicable) and click on Clear. Clear Edge browsing data

Restore new tab and homepage settings:

  1. Click the menu icon and choose Settings.
  2. Then find On startup section.
  3. Click Disable if you found any suspicious domain.

Reset MS Edge if the above steps did not work:

  1. Press on Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Click on More details arrow at the bottom of the window.
  3. Select Details tab.
  4. Now scroll down and locate every entry with Microsoft Edge name in it. Right-click on each of them and select End Task to stop MS Edge from running. Reset MS Edge

If this solution failed to help you, you need to use an advanced Edge reset method. Note that you need to backup your data before proceeding.

  1. Find the following folder on your computer: C:\\Users\\%username%\\AppData\\Local\\Packages\\Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe.
  2. Press Ctrl + A on your keyboard to select all folders.
  3. Right-click on them and pick Delete Advanced MS Edge reset 1
  4. Now right-click on the Start button and pick Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  5. When the new window opens, copy and paste the following command, and then press Enter:

    Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers -Name Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “$($_.InstallLocation)\\AppXManifest.xml” -Verbose Advanced MS Edge reset 2

Instructions for Chromium-based Edge

Delete extensions from MS Edge (Chromium):

  1. Open Edge and click select Settings > Extensions.
  2. Delete unwanted extensions by clicking Remove. Remove extensions from Chromium Edge

Clear cache and site data:

  1. Click on Menu and go to Settings.
  2. Select Privacy, search and services.
  3. Under Clear browsing data, pick Choose what to clear.
  4. Under Time range, pick All time.
  5. Select Clear now. Clear browser data from Chroum Edge

Reset Chromium-based MS Edge:

  1. Click on Menu and select Settings.
  2. On the left side, pick Reset settings.
  3. Select Restore settings to their default values.
  4. Confirm with Reset. Reset Chromium Edge

Remove from Mozilla Firefox (FF)

Remove dangerous extensions:

  1. Open Mozilla Firefox browser and click on the Menu (three horizontal lines at the top-right of the window).
  2. Select Add-ons.
  3. In here, select unwanted plugin and click Remove. Remove extensions from Firefox

Reset the homepage:

  1. Click three horizontal lines at the top right corner to open the menu.
  2. Choose Options.
  3. Under Home options, enter your preferred site that will open every time you newly open the Mozilla Firefox.

Clear cookies and site data:

  1. Click Menu and pick Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy & Security section.
  3. Scroll down to locate Cookies and Site Data.
  4. Click on Clear Data…
  5. Select Cookies and Site Data, as well as Cached Web Content and press Clear. Clear cookies and site data from Firefox

Reset Mozilla Firefox

If clearing the browser as explained above did not help, reset Mozilla Firefox:

  1. Open Mozilla Firefox browser and click the Menu.
  2. Go to Help and then choose Troubleshooting Information. Reset Firefox 1
  3. Under Give Firefox a tune up section, click on Refresh Firefox…
  4. Once the pop-up shows up, confirm the action by pressing on Refresh Firefox. Reset Firefox 2

Remove from Google Chrome

Delete all PUP-related content from Chrome. Use this guide if help is needed:

Delete malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

  1. Open Google Chrome, click on the Menu (three vertical dots at the top-right corner) and select More tools > Extensions.
  2. In the newly opened window, you will see all the installed extensions. Uninstall all the suspicious plugins that might be related to the unwanted program by clicking Remove. Remove extensions from Chrome

Clear cache and web data from Chrome:

  1. Click on Menu and pick Settings.
  2. Under Privacy and security, select Clear browsing data.
  3. Select Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, as well as Cached images and files.
  4. Click Clear data. Clear cache and web data from Chrome

Change your homepage:

  1. Click menu and choose Settings.
  2. Look for a suspicious site in the On startup section.
  3. Click on Open a specific or set of pages and click on three dots to find the Remove option.

Reset Google Chrome:

If the previous methods did not help you, reset Google Chrome to eliminate all the unwanted components:

  1. Click on Menu and select Settings.
  2. In the Settings, scroll down and click Advanced.
  3. Scroll down and locate Reset and clean up section.
  4. Now click Restore settings to their original defaults.
  5. Confirm with Reset settings. Reset Chrome 2

Delete from Safari

You can refresh the Safari web browser by following these instructions:

Remove unwanted extensions from Safari:

  1. Click Safari > Preferences…
  2. In the new window, pick Extensions.
  3. Select the unwanted extension and select Uninstall. Remove extensions from Safari

Clear cookies and other website data from Safari:

  1. Click Safari > Clear History…
  2. From the drop-down menu under Clear, pick all history.
  3. Confirm with Clear History. Clear cookies and website data from Safari

Reset Safari if the above-mentioned steps did not help you:

  1. Click Safari > Preferences…
  2. Go to Advanced tab.
  3. Tick the Show Develop menu in menu bar.
  4. From the menu bar, click Develop, and then select Empty Caches. Reset Safari

After uninstalling this potentially unwanted program (PUP) and fixing each of your web browsers, we recommend you to scan your PC system with a reputable anti-spyware. This will help you to get rid of Win Erx03 registry traces and will also identify related parasites or possible malware infections on your computer. For that you can use our top-rated malware remover: FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes.

How to prevent from getting adware

Do not let government spy on you

The government has many issues in regards to tracking users' data and spying on citizens, so you should take this into consideration and learn more about shady information gathering practices. Avoid any unwanted government tracking or spying by going totally anonymous on the internet. 

You can choose a different location when you go online and access any material you want without particular content restrictions. You can easily enjoy internet connection without any risks of being hacked by using Private Internet Access VPN.

Control the information that can be accessed by government any other unwanted party and surf online without being spied on. Even if you are not involved in illegal activities or trust your selection of services, platforms, be suspicious for your own security and take precautionary measures by using the VPN service.

Backup files for the later use, in case of the malware attack

Computer users can suffer from data losses due to cyber infections or their own faulty doings. Ransomware can encrypt and hold files hostage, while unforeseen power cuts might cause a loss of important documents. If you have proper up-to-date backups, you can easily recover after such an incident and get back to work. It is also equally important to update backups on a regular basis so that the newest information remains intact – you can set this process to be performed automatically.

When you have the previous version of every important document or project you can avoid frustration and breakdowns. It comes in handy when malware strikes out of nowhere. Use Data Recovery Pro for the data restoration process.

About the author
Julie Splinters
Julie Splinters - Anti-malware specialist

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References
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