The BonziBuddy ransomware is a newly discovered malware threat that was discovered in the second week of November 2016. Learn more about it in our removal guide.
| Name | Bonzibuddy |
| File Extensions | Does not affect user data |
| Ransom | None |
| Solution #1 | You can skip all steps and remove Bonzibuddy with the help of an anti-malware tool. |
| Solution #2 | Bonzibuddy ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below. |
| Distribution | Spam Email Campaigns, Exploit kits, malicious ads & etc. |
BonziBuddy Ransomware Description
The BonziBuddy Ransomware ransomware is a new malware that has been discovered by security experts in the second week of November 2016.
Upon infection the ransomware affects target user files by encryting the user daat and extorting them for a fee. The initial analysis has shown that the BonziBuddy Ransomware follows a typical infection process and does not stand out with any unusual features.
The experts note that the criminal developers have used the name of the popular BonziBuddy desktop assistant which was popular with Microsoft Windows users a decade ago. According to the researchers this ransoomware may be a test version for a currently unreleased Trojan.
The BonziBuddy ransomware does not contain an encryption engine however it does show an application window with the title “Bonzibuddy Says” which contains the following message:
‘yOUR A BONZIBUDY LOVER
YOUR FILES ARE MINE
[text box] OK {button}
Save your Computer
yOU SUCK BYE’
The virus itself does not cause any damage as it does not use a popular encryption cipher or limit access to the computer via a screenlocker malware.
BonziBuddy Ransomware Distribution
The malware is being distributed via email messages. The BonziBuddy Ransomware is primarily carried through spam campaigns that contain links to the malicious binaries.
Most anti-virus and anti-spyware vendors have already added the virus to their updated definition list.
Bonzibuddy Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Bonzibuddy 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 Bonzibuddy 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
