The Vxlock ransomware is a new virus of unknown origin that uses AES encryption to withhold sensitive files and extorts the victims for a ransom payment. Continue reading our in-depth removal guide to learn how to remove active infections from your computer and protect yourself in the future.
| Name | Vxlock |
| File Extensions | .vxLock |
| Ransom | Varies |
| Solution #1 | You can skip all steps and remove Vxlock with the help of an anti-malware tool. |
| Solution #2 | Vxlock 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. |
VxLock Ransomware Description
The VxLock Ransomware is a new virus of unknown origin. Experts are still conducting an in-depth security analysis and we cannot say for certain if it is an independent creation or a strain from a popular malware family. What we know is that its name is taken from the extension it appends to the compromised files.
Vxlock ransomware uses an AES-based encryption engine which targets the most popular user data file types. They include multimedia files (music, photos and videos), configuration files, archives, backups, documents and etc.
The virus is distributed as a malicious binary file.
VxLock Ransomware Distribution
The first malware samples of the Vxlock ransomware were identified in January 2017. According to the available data it is primarily targets English-speaking users. We presume that the primary distribution methods include the following:
- Spam Email Messages – Criminals use the body of the messages to distribute hyperlinks to malicious instances of the Vxlock ransomware or attach binaries directly to the messages.
- Malicious Ads, Redirects & Browser Hijackers – They can be used to redirect the users into downloading the virus.
- Compromised Download Sites and P2P Networks – Hackers use controlled download sites or hacked instances, as well as various P2P networks like BitTorrent to ditribute samples of the Vxlock ransomware.
VxLock Ransomware – How To Remove it and Prevent It From Coming Back
There are two ways of removal:
- With an anti-malware tool – this will also help prevention
- Manually – using the instructions below
Vxlock Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Vxlock 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 Vxlock 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
