Manifestus Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

Manifestus Ransomware is an updated version of the infamous M4N1F3STO Ransomware responsible for several large attack campaigns. To learn more about it continue reading our removal guide.

Manifestus Ransomware Description

The Manifestus Ransomware is a recently discovered updated version of the M4N1F3STO malware. Similar to its predecessor it uses the AES cipher to encrypt target user data and follows the same attack pattern. Upon infection it targets specific user files and encrypts them using the built-in encryption module. All compromised files receive the .*** file extension. The victims are then displayed a ransomware note which displays a ransom sum extortion message.

The criminal operators of this virus demand the fee of 0.2 Bitcoins which is about 160 US Dollars in return for their data. The ransomware note reads the following:

Your personal files are encrypted by Manifestus
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files ha ye been encrypted with strongest
encryption and unique key, generated for this computer.
The single copy of the private key, with will allow you to decrypt the files, located on a secret server on the internet, the server will destroy the key after a time specified in this window. After that, nobody and never will be able to restore files…
To obtain the private key for this computer, which will automatically decrypt files, you need to pay 0,2 bitcoins or 160 USD Dollars to the bitcoin adress specified below with your email address to send you the decryption key.
If you do not have bitcoins you can buy them from www.localbitcoins.com.
Thank you!
Bitcoin Address: ***
If you already purchased the key enter it here: …

An additional note reads:

Windows Update
Please do not restart or shutdown your pc during this operation.
Your system32 will be damaged, and this will brick you pc.
Thank You!
Jhon Woddy, Microsoft

Manifestus Ransomware Distribution

The Manifestus Ransomware has already been used in several large-scale attack campaigns. It is primarily distributed in email spam messages, exploit kits, counterfeit software updates and installers.

Manifestus Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Manifestus completely with a few mouse clicks.

STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.

1) Hit WIN Key + R

2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK

Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”

STEP II: Show Hidden Files

1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
– Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option

3) Windows 8/ 10

– Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option



4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button

STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes

1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it

STEP IV: Remove Completely Manifestus Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

STEP V: Repair Windows Registry

1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys

Further help for Windows Registry repair

STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files

1) Use present backups
2) Restore your personal files using File History
– Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar



– Hit the “Restore” button

3) Using System Restore Point

– Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures

1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter