Research on .HELP File Virus
The “.HELP File Virus” is a file encryption ransomware infection that has emerged as a significant threat to computer users. This malware operates by encrypting the user’s files, effectively locking them and rendering them inaccessible, and it targets a wide variety of file types. These include, but are not limited to, images (PNG, PSD, JPEG), documents (DOC, DOCX, PDF), databases (SQL, MDB), and even multimedia files (MP3, MP4, AVI). Upon encryption, it appends an “.HELP” extension to the files, signaling that they have been compromised.
How Did .HELP File Virus Sneak into Your Computer?
Similar to other data locking ransomware like KOOL Ransomware, the primary vector for this ransomware’s infiltration is through spam emails. These emails are cunningly crafted to appear legitimate, often masquerading as invoices or flight bookings with incorrect credit card details. This deceptive appearance lures the recipient into opening the email and, more critically, the attachment it contains. Unfortunately, opening the attachment initiates the ransomware infection, leading to the encryption of personal files. Following encryption, victims are coerced into paying a ransom in bitcoins to receive a decryption key.
Should You Pay the Ransom to Maker of .HELP File Virus?
No! It is strongly advised against paying the ransom demanded by these cybercriminals. Submitting to their demands does not guarantee the recovery of your encrypted files and only funds their malicious activities, facilitating the development of more ransomware. History has shown that trust in these attackers is misplaced.
To tackle the “.HELP File Virus,” the first step is to remove the ransomware from your computer. This action prevents further encryption and prepares the system for the recovery process. Once the system is cleaned, users should seek legitimate decryption tools or professional help to attempt file recovery. Below are detailed steps to guide you through the process of removing the “.HELP File Virus” and attempting to recover your files:
Ransomware Removal + Files Recovery Guide
Begin the process of file recovery only after ensuring your PC is secure from infections.
If you regularly back up your data, you can restore your files from these backups. However, it’s crucial to thoroughly scan your entire PC to ensure no remnants of the malware or its related components remain. Avoid transferring backup files to your PC until you’ve verified its safety; otherwise, the ransomware might encrypt these backups as well.
For those without backup files, the safest method to retrieve your data is through professional data recovery software. Prior to using any recovery tools, confirm your PC’s environment is secure.
Ultimately, whether restoring from backups or using data recovery software, verify your PC’s environment is entirely secure and clean. If you’re unsure how to assess your PC’s safety, consider employing a reliable and professional security application for a comprehensive scan and cleanup of any potential threats, potentially saving time and mitigating hidden risks.
Our PC Security experts recommending using SpyHunter, a reputable and professional Anti-malware application capable of keeping your PC Clean and Protected.
Step 1 – Use SpyHunter to scan PC and see If system environment is malware-free:
Download SpyHunter for Windows by Clicking Here:
Download SpyHunter For Windows (Free Trial)*The SpyHunter Trial version includes, for one device, a one-time 7-day Trial period for SpyHunter 5 Pro (Windows) or SpyHunter for Mac. * Check Terms & Conditions of SpyHunter Free Trial Offer , EULA and Privacy/Cookie Policy.
Install SpyHunter:
Once downloaded, Double-click “SpyHunter-Installer.exe” start the installation process.
(Note – Sometimes web browser may warn that “This type of file can harm your computer…” .Do not worry, such warning may appear when user download EXE file. Just free to click “Keep” to allow it.)
Then Follow the prompts on the screen, agreeing to the terms and choosing your preferred installation options. And complete the installation by following the on-screen instructions.
Run SpyHunter:
After installation, launch SpyHunter from your desktop or the Start menu.
On the first run, SpyHunter may need to download updates. Allow it to do so to ensure it can detect the latest threats.
Scan for Malware:
Once updated, click on the “Start Scan Now” button to begin the malware detection process.
SpyHunter will scan your system for all types of malware, including viruses, trojans, ransomware, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).
Review Scan Results:
After the scan completes, review the threats detected by SpyHunter. It provides detailed information about each threat, including its location and type.
Take Action:
To remove the detected malware and other threats, follow SpyHunter’s recommendations.
You need to register and activate SpyHunter remove the malicious files detected. You can activate the 7-Day Free Trail first if you do not consider purchasing the full version of SpyHunter now.
Step 2 – Recover your files via Legitimate Data Recover Software or Back-up.
Once you have confirmed that your computer is entirely secure and clean, you can begin the file recovering process.
If you do not have back-up files, you should try your luck on legitimate decryption software as many as possible. Here is a list of professional Decryptors:
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Use EMSISOFT Decrypter To Recover Files
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Use Kaspersky Ransomware Decryptor To Recover Files
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Use No More Ransom Decrytor To Recover Files
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Use Avast Ransomware Decryption To Recover Files
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Use Shadow Explorer To Recover Files
NOTE – This guide is designed to introduce a method with the potential to decrypt files. While we cannot guarantee that the suggested approach and tools will ensure a 100% success rate in file recovery, we are committed to updating this guide should we discover a method that is proven to be fully effective in restoring files.