How to remove Wooly ransomware virus

Wooly ransomware makes its first steps in the cyber space

WoolyBear or Wooly virus defines a new file-encrypting threat^[1] which is programmed to encrypt users’ files. At the moment, the file is still in its initial stage of development. The malware manages to encrypt users’ files and append .wooly extension. Nonetheless, the very operation mode triggers multiple errors.

At the moment, the ransomware presents no specific ransom message nor indicates the sum of ransom. Luckily, the infection is already detected by numerous security tools as Trojan.Ransom.Wooly, Win32:Malware-gen, Gen:Heur.Ransom.MSIL.1, Ransom_WOOLY.A, etc^[2]. Interestingly, the ransomware disguises under ransom.exe file. It may also pretend to be a file associated with the legitimate Visual Studio 2017.

Thus, if you have noticed that suddenly the overall performance operating system got significantly deteriorated, check the Task Manager. If some of your files already got modified and now bear .wooly file extension, it is high time you performed WoolyBear removal. FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes will help you with the elimination procedure.

“Script kiddies” join the market

This malware is only one of numerous malware samples available which are supposedly programmed by amateur wannabe hackers. On the one hand, sometimes such incomplete ransomware scripts happen to be more easily decryptable. On the other hand, they might cause more troubles rather than ordinary polished threats.

Interestingly, the malware source code contains an image of a polar bear. Thus, it might be only for amusement purposes. Nonetheless, there is no need to waste time and remove Wooly cyber infection.

Ways to get infected with the malware

Regarding the features of the malware, users may accidentally activate WoolyBear hijack after they open an executable file of malicious app. As mentioned before, restrain from downloading any applications from secondary sources of web pages overcrowded with ads.

In addition, beware of the emails which are supposedly sent from the official institutions. Alarming letters from the FBI or National Tax Agency are common bait employed by cyber criminals. Thus, remain vigilant. Additional malware elimination tool might also help you ward off potential virtual threats.

Delete Wooly crypto-virus from Windows

It is likely that you should not encounter any Wooly removal difficulties. Launch a virus fighting utility and update it. You should repeat the procedure after restarting the device.

In case you cannot remove Wooly virus from the first attempt. Reboot the device in Safe Mode. Below guidelines instruct you how to do it in more detail. In addition, you will find below additional tips how to recover your data. Though the traffic of the malware is still limited, its samples might appear in, e.g., Hungarian^[3] domains.

[GI=method-2In case Safe Boot did not help you access the security tool, you can benefit from this option. Note that all files and programs installed between the auto-saved recovery point and the present might be lost.][/GI]