How to remove FBI MoneyPak

FBI MoneyPak is a computer threat that locks your PC screen for money extortion purposes

FBI MoneyPak (also known as FBI virus) is one of the earlier versions of malware now known as ransomware. It does not lock user files but instead blocks victims from accessing their PCs fully by locking their screens. Those infected are also unable to call up Windows components that would help to shut down the screenlocker, for example, the Task Manager or Registry Editor.

The main goal of this attack is to convince victims that their computers have been locked by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for allegedly illegal activities performed on the computer. Cybercriminals want users to transfer a specific amount of money (usually between $200 and $300USD) via the MoneyPak financing system that allows complete anonymity of the recipient. Do not pay this fake fine as you will lose your money, and your screen won't be unlocked!

The message that is provided to users can be very frightening, as many might get immediately concerned about an FBI investigating them. This is precisely the effect that threat actors are going for – to frighten victims and make them pay the requested money.

However, the are multiple flaws within this scam, so it is important not to panic and think rationally. The main reason why scammers have released such a virus is really simple – they expect you to believe that you have been “illegally watching copyrighted content, and now you have to pay a fine through Moneypak service.”

There are several other horrendous crimes that users are accused of, including:

• Distribution of disturbing pornographic material;
• Illegal access to a computer (which is ironic, as the computer was locked illegally)
• Delivery of spam or malicious ads, etc.

The victim is usually asked to go to Walmart or Walgreens stores to make a payment. Please do not do that as you end up losing your money for good and hand it to criminals that fuels their intention to create more malware and infect more innocent people.

There are several different versions of FBI Moneypak or FBI virus that use other alerts and demand $200, not $100, for the fine. They are called the FBI Green Dot Moneypak virus and FBI Virus Black Screen. They have no video recording but use an audio warning that asks to pay the cash and get the code to unlock your computer.

We highly recommend to ignore this forged alert and remove the virus from your computer. For that, access Safe Mode as explained below and perform a full system scan with a powerful anti-malware, such as SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. FortectIntego can also be used to fix virus damage done to the computer (it is particularly useful if Windows starts crashing, returning errors, or suffering from other stability issues after the eliminated of the infection).

Propagation properties of screen-locker

This sophisticated intruder gets inside the system via trojan horses that come inside unnoticed by a user and download all the files needed for FBI Moneypak. Also, the virus locks the system down and displays its pop-up message based on misleading information about copyright and related rights law violation.

In fact, it looks almost like a legitimate message displayed by the FBI! However, you must keep in mind that this alert is completely deceitful and wants only to mislead you into spending your $100 to unlock the PC. Instead of that, you should don't waste your time and remove the infection from your computer before it starts additional activity on your computer.

Security experts recommend ignoring all the spam letters and never open attachments that can be found inside them. Also, stop wasting your time with freeware because such programs may also come together with viruses. Finally, always make sure you have reputable anti-virus and anti-spyware programs installed so that they could help you to prevent viruses from infiltrating your PC.

Remove FBI Moneypak and never transfer the requested money

In order to remove this dangerous threat and unlock your computer, you are highly recommended using reputable anti-malware programs, such as SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes, and then use FortectIntego to remediate Windows system files. Besides, if you find yourself completely disabled, follow these steps before you run a full system scan with anti-malware:

1. Take another machine and use it to download an anti-malware program.
2. Update the program and put into the USB drive or another external storage device.
3. In the meanwhile, reboot your infected machine to Safe Mode with command prompt and stick USB drive in it.
4. Reboot computer infected with FBI ransomware once more and run a full system scan.

Below you will find detailed instructions on how to access Safe Mode with Networking. However, you should not look for malicious files yourself and rely on professional anti-malware software instead.