Guster Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

We have just been notified of a new Guster ransomware which exhibits a screenlocker function which appends the .locked extension to the compromised files.


Name
Guster

File Extensions
.locked

Special Feature
Screen Lock Function

Ransom
0.4 Bitcoins

Solution #1
Guster Remove Guster Ransomware easily with the help of an anti-malware tool, a program that will clean your computer from the virus, remove any additional cyber-security threats, and protect you in the future.

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

Distribution
The ransomware is spread mainly through spam email messages and untrusted download sites

Guster Ransomware Description

The Guster ransomware is a new malware threat which features a distracting screenlocker function. The security analysis shows that the virus actually employs scareware tactics. It doesn’t actually encrypt user files but asks for a ransomware fee of 0.4 Bitcoins to “restore” the victim’s files.

An annoying screenlocker is installed on the host computer upon infection which repeatedly reads the ransom note. The image shows the following message:

All your files (documents, videos, photos, musics, pdfs, etc) have been encrypted with a strong military cryptography
The only way you have to get your files back to you, is paying a fee of 0.4 bitcoins, which worth something about 300.00 USD.
You can buy bitcoins in various sites all over the web, like localbitcoins.com and various others. If you try to delete me or something funny.
I SWEAR I’ll blow up your whole files and you’re never going to see it again.
It’s serious!
You have 48 hours to pay me these bitcoins or you’ll never get to see yous files again! You’re warned!

Follow these steps in order to get your files back:

1. Go to a Bitcoin exchange site and buy exactly 0.4 BTCs
1.1 You can take a look at some of these sort of sites here: https://www.bestbitcoinexchange.io/
2. Send an email with your ID to [email protected]
3. Wait for a email-reply with more instructions
3.1 – It may take about 6-8 hours, if it takes more than that, send the email again. FAAAST!
3.2 – Remember! You have only 48 hours, so you better hurry up!
4. After following all the steps (including email reply steps), you’ll get the PASSWORD to decryption
5. Type the password in the indicated field
6. Click on ‘Decrypt!’
7. It’s done. Your files will be decrypted!

Your ID: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXx

Guster Ransomware Distribution

The file is distributed as a infected binary file which is distributed via the usual infection strategies: spam email messages, browser hijackers, malicious ads and etc.

Guster Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Guster 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 Guster Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

Manual removal of Guster requires being familiar with system files and registries. Removal of any important data can lead to permanent system damage. Prevent this troublesome effect – delete Guster 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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