Do you know what GTF Ransomware is?
GTF Ransomware is a dangerous computer infection that will take over your system by surprise. Although we install such malicious programs onto our computers ourselves, it is always possible to avoid ransomware infections if we are careful enough. Therefore, we are going to use this opportunity to tell you more about ransomware infections and how it is possible to avoid them. Of course, you can also find the manual removal instructions at the bottom of this description because you have to remove GTF Ransomware from your computer.
The truth is that GTF Ransomware isn’t an entirely new player on the field. Yes, it is a new infection, but it is based on a rather well-known malicious code. It means that this program comes from a notorious group of ransomware infections, and there are tons of other similar infections out there that are based on the same code. In practice, GTF Ransomware is very similar to SySS Ransomware, Dever Ransomware, Bitx Ransomware, RSA Ransomware, and many others. Of course, when we know there the programs come from, it is a lot easier to apply some sort of removal method or another tactic that would help us deal with the infection’s consequences.
The best way to mitigate a ransomware infection is by keeping a file backup. That would mean that we have to save copies of your files regularly on an external device (something like a hard drive). We can also back up our data on a cloud drive, and there are tons of options out there. In fact, these days, the ransomware threat is so common that whenever you set up a new computer, your operating system will offer you to set up a cloud drive, too. After all, it’s always better to be prepared.
So, let’s say you have a file backup. Even if GTF Ransomware enters your computer, you don’t need to panic and look for ways to restore your files. Does it mean you should just let this infection enter your computer? Of course not. If you can, prevent ransomware from infecting you. For that, you have to know how it spreads.
GTF Ransomware screenshot
Scroll down for full removal instructions
Based on what we know about other programs from the Crysis/Dharma Ransomware family, we can assume that GTF Ransomware also spreads through spam emails and unsecured RDP connections. It means that users receive ransomware infection installers through these channels, and users run those installers themselves. This usually happens because the files that carry malware look like regular documents that we deal with every day. So, if those files do not look suspicious, users might not think twice before opening them. But wait! You can always check the sender!
Do you know the sender? Have been you waiting for this file? Don’t you think it’s odd to receive a document out of the blue? Why don’t you scan the received document with a security tool before you open it? This way, you will definitely protect yourself from GTF Ransomware.
On the other hand, if you fail to implement these security measures, GTF Ransomware will slither into your system, and then it will encrypt your files. Like most of the programs from this group, GTF Ransomware will change your file extension, by adding the infection ID and the email you have to use to contact these criminals. It will also display a ransom note that says you have to contact the people behind this infection as soon as possible. It also says that paying the ransom is your only way to get your files back, but that shouldn’t sway you.
There is actually no guarantee that these criminals would issue a decryption key once you have paid the ransom. Also, if you do have a file backup, you can just remove the infection, delete the encrypted files, and transfer the healthy copies back into your computer. It’s a no brainer.
On the other hand, if you do not have a file backup, you might want to go through various file recovery options. Do not hesitate to address a professional who would help you learn more about the issue. Also, you need to acquire a computer security tool that would help you protect your system from various threats in the future.
How to Remove GTF Ransomware
- Delete the most recent files from Desktop.
- Remove the most recent files from the Downloads folder.
- Remove the FILES ENCRYPTED.txt ransom note.
- Use the Win+R command to access these directories:
%APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\
%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\
%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\
%WINDIR%\System32\
%APPDATA%\ - Delete the Info.hta file and a random EXE file from those directories.
- Press Win+R and type regedit. Click OK.
- Open HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run.
- On the right pane, right-click the values related to the random EXE file and the Info.hta file.
- Delete the files and exit Registry Editor.
- Use SpyHunter to scan your system.
In non-techie terms:
GTF Ransomware is a computer infection that will block you from accessing your files. This program will tell you that you have to pay money to get your files back. However, paying is not an option because you would only give your money away to cybercriminals. Remove GTF Ransomware today with a licensed security tool, and then look at your file recovery options. If you feel at a loss, please address a local professional or leave us a comment below. Our team is always ready to assist you.