TechSupportScam Screenlocker Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

Security experts discovered a new computer threat known as The TechSupportScam Screenlocker or Zusy Locker which locks the computer screen and demands a ransom payment. Learn more about the threat and how to protect yourself from it, as well as instructions for malware removal in our article below.


Name
TechSupportScam Screenlocker

File Extensions
Does not alter files

Special Feature
Screen Lock Function

Ransom
Varies

Solution #1
TechSupportScam Screenlocker ransomware can be removed 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
TechSupportScam Screenlocker ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below.

Distribution
Email Spam, exploit kits.

TechSupportScam Screenlocker Ransomware Description

The TechSupportScam Screenlocker is a new ransomware Trojan virus that uses scare tactics to extort money from its victims. Upon installation on the target computer the virus locks the screen and poses as a security feature by Microsoft. The owners are lead to believe that Microsoft has banned their computers due to an infection. The complete message contents read the following:

Your Windows has been banned

This PC has been banned for terms of use violations. To protect the Windows service and its members. Microsoft does not provide details about the specific PC bans.

Your PC has been banned because we detected an unusual activity on your computer. To protect the Windows service and its members. Your PC maybe has been infected with viruses that do an unusual activity. To grant access back to your PC please pay some fee to trusted Microsoft Technician and the Microsoft Technician will give you a code to unlock your PC. To contact nearest Microsoft Technician please click below.

Contact Nearest Microsoft Technician (button)

The various anti-spyware and anti-virus vendors already added the threat to their definiitons list. The active threats are listed as a variant of the Zusy Trojan which is an old banking Trojan. This virus is known to be very small in size and can easily be integrated in various software packages.

TechSupportScam Screenlocker Ransomware Distribution

The TechSupportScam Screenlocker Ransomware can be deliveered in various infected software bundles distributed in P2P networks and download sites. The binary files can also be attached in email spam campaigns and distributed via exploit kits, malicious ads and other means of intrusion.

TechSupportScam Screenlocker Ransomware Removal

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

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