UpdateHost Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The UpdateHost ransomware is a dangerous new malware which is of unknown origin, read our removal guide to learn how to protect yourself from it.

UpdateHost Ransomware Description

Security experts discovered a new virus called UpdateHost ransomware. This is a fairy typical strain of the Hidden Tear malware family. It is also known under the alias of HostFile.

As other similar infections it targets specific user file types, encrypts them and then extorts the victim for a fee payment. The following user data is compromised and then renamed using the .locked extension:

.7z, .asp, .aspx, .csv, .doc, .docx, .html, .jpg, .mdb, .odt, .php, .png, .ppt,
.pptx, .psd, .rar, .sln, .sql,.txt, .xls, .xlsx, .zip

The virus has already been featured in several attack campaigns and its unique signature has been added to the updated definition sets of most anti-spyware and anti-virus vendors.

UpdateHost Ransomware Distribution

The UpdateHost Ransomware is primarily distributed using the well-known tactics employed by other Hidden Tear-based viruses.

The most popular distribution method is spam email campaigns. Usually the hackers send out waves of messages to a predefined list of targets which include attachments or links that lead to infections with the UpdateHost Ransomware.

In many cases such threats can also be delivered via infected macros delivered in various documents such as invoices, notices, messages and etc.

UpdateHost Ransomware – How To Remove it and Prevent It From Coming Back

There are two ways of removal:

• With an anti-malware tool – this will also help prevention
  
• Manually – using the instructions below

UpdateHost Ransomware Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete UpdateHost Ransomware 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 UpdateHost Ransomware 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