Files encrypted by XmdXtazX can be unlocked for free
XmdXtazX is a new version of Stupid ransomware virus which pretends to be a warning from the FBI. However, seeing a threatening alert with FBI’s logo should not scare you. Despite the fact that this piece of malware demands only 35 euros, you should not transfer them. You can unlock your computer and get back access to your files using this password: 666444QSW6842QSW666444.
The virus spreads as a camouflaged Builder Ransom.exe file which is usually attached to the spam email. As soon as a user opens the file, which mostly looks legit and safe, malware executable is dropped on the system. Furthermore, ransomware starts data encryption procedure using AES-256[1] encryption. At the end of this procedure, all targeted files are locked with .XmdXtazX extension.
XmdXtazX virus informs users about the attack by displaying a ransom note which starts with a saying:
YOUR COMPUTER HAVE BEEN LOCKED !
Criminals use the name and logo of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in order to make the attack look terrifying. However, grammar mistakes and use of language errors can easily extradite the hoax. Authors of the XmdXtazX ransomware tell that users have to pay the ransom within 24 hours and send an email to wcffedde-1559@ycrcrtwlf.com to get the unlock key.
The ransom window has a timer that shows how much time victims have left. One the timer shows zeros, all the encoded data is supposed to be deleted. However, rushing to give 35 euros to cyber criminals is not recommended. As you already know, researchers made the decryption key public. Thus, enter 666444QSW6842QSW666444 and start XmdXtazX removal procedure.
Nevertheless, XmdXtazX is a decryptable virus; you should not take it less seriously. It’s still a crypto-malware that makes numerous modifications to the system. As a result, the computer becomes unprotected. For this reason, you have to get rid of all malicious files as soon as you recover your data.
Malware-related entries have to be deleted altogether. Thus, you should get a reputable malware removal program, such as FortectIntego. Keep in mind that free programs might be weak and do not remove XmdXtazX from the system. Thus, invest in a professional tool that will protect you from the future cyber threats.
Multiple distribution methods helps to reach victims all over the world
There’s no surprise that developers of ransomware use several ways to spread the malicious program. Most of the time users are tricked to install malware payload itself. For instance:
- Users might receive an email from a reputable organization asking to check information provided in the attachment.
- Users install a fake program. This often happens when people download illegal software[2] from torrents or file-sharing networks.
- Users download fake updates from ads.
Security experts team from Poland[3] note that users should be very careful with content downloaded from the Internet. Cyber criminals use social engineering techniques and always take advantage of users willing to get expensive programs for free. However, you should never forget that losing your files might cost more than the license of the needed software.
XmdXtazX removal guidelines
Once you enter the unlock key in the ransom window and recover the files, you have to focus on the most important task – XmdXtazX removal. Nevertheless, you have a correct key, using it does not clean your device from malicious programs, files, and components. You have to take extra steps to clean the PC.
To remove XmdXtazX entirely, you will need to obtain an anti-virus or anti-malware program. We recommend dedicating this task with FortectIntego. Of course, you can use your preferred tool too. However, before scanning the system, don’t forget to update the program.
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