The PC Locker Ransomware is a new dangerous threat that has screen locking capabilities, learn how to remove it by following our guide.
| Name | PC Locker Ransomware |
| File Extensions | Does not alter any files |
| Ransom | Survey |
Special Feature | Screen Lock Function |
| Solution #1 | Use an advanced anti-malware tool to remove PC Locker ransomware. |
| Solution #2 | PC Locker 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. |
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PC Locker Ransomware Description
The PC Locker ransomware is a new malware threat that functions as a screen locker upon infenction of the victim computer. The virus forces numerous surveys upon the user instead of extorting them for a ransom sum payment. This tactic is particularly tedious as they are often plagued by ads and they generate income for the criminal operators.
The malware blocks the victim’s desktop and blackmails the victims into thinking that their computer are locked.
An in-depth security analysis has not been completed yet and we do not know further details about the PC locker ransomware however several tests have concluded that the malware is not compatible with 64-bit hosts.
Upon infection the virus checks if the following registry value is available on the computer:
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon]
The virus doesn’t work on Windows XP hosts however it is functional on Windows 7 computers.
If the user interacts with the proposed “Get Password” button the PC locker ransomware opens the default web browser and attempts to connect to a hardcoded survey site.
The security researchers have discovered that the unlock password is hardcoded into the code of the virus – london1969paris.
The PC Locker ransomware also bas its own administrative panel with hardcoded credentials – the username is pchip2012 and the password is s2m2sug1. The following options are available: “Restore Registry”, “Log Off” and “Close”.
The locker can collect data about the victims which can be used to make profiles of the victim machines and their owners. The security researchers state that this virus may be a development version of a much more deadly threat may be launched in large campaigns soon.
PC Locker Ransomware Distribution
The available PC Locker ransomware samples are too few to conclude the main distribution method of the threat. We suspect that spam email campaigns are the most favorable type of infection vector.
PC Locker Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete PC Locker 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 PC Locker 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
