Free-Freedom Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

Free-Freedom ransomware is a scareware threat that has been developed by a minor as a software experiment. To learn how to disable it read our removal guide.


Name
Free-Freedom

File Extensions
Doesn’t modify the file extensions

Ransom
30$ Google Play Store Gift Card

Solution #1
You can skip all steps and remove Free-Freedom with the help of an anti-malware tool.

Solution #2
Free-Freedom ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below.

Distribution
Spam Email Campaigns, malicious ads & etc.

Free-Freedom Ransomware Description

The Free-Freedom Ransomware is a new scareware type of malware that behaves like a ransomware but it doesn’t encrypt the files. The only system modification that it makes is that it modifies the permissions on the victim files however they can easily be fixed.

Upon execution of the malicious code the user is presented with a browser window that displays a ransomware-like note which states the following:

Your Files Have Been Encrypted!
But you can get your files back!

Your files have been locked / encrypted!

To unlock your files, just click next.

If you have no internet and do not wish to
pay via Unsecure connection, please use
your neighbores internet or a public cafe.

A disclaimer reads that This ransomware was coded by a 13 year old boy! Done with VB.NET Version 10.

The ransomware requests a payment of a 25 US Dollars Google Play Store Gift Card.

You can unlock the computer by using the “adam” code.

Free-Freedom Ransomware Distribution

The Free-Freedom ransomware is distributed as a malicious binary executable file which is delivered via malicious ads, browser hijackers, spam emails and etc.

Free-Freedom Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Free-Freedom 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

Windows-key-plus-R-button-launch-Run-Box-in-Windows-illustrated

    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

    show-hidden-files-win8-10

    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 Free-Freedom Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

Manual removal of Free-Freedom requires being familiar with system files and registries. Removal of any important data can lead to permanent system damage. Prevent this troublesome effect – delete Free-Freedom ransomware with SpyHunter malware removal 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

    restore-your-personal-files-using-File-History-bestecuritysearch

      – Hit the “Restore” button

    3) Using System Restore Point

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

restore-files-using-system-restore-point

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

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Author : Martin Beltov

Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.


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