How to Remove Horsemoney Ransomware

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software which infects a computer system, typically by taking advantage of one or more vulnerabilities in various applications to gain administrative access. The malware then encrypts the files on the infected machine, rendering them unusable without decryption keys supplied by the attacker. To ensure that victims pay up, an attacker may use additional methods such as cyber-extortion and crypto-ransomware infections to demand money from their victims.

How Does Ransomware Spread?

Ransomware can be spread through many different vectors. The usual suspects tend to be phishing emails and infected downloads in P2P networks and torrents. Some ransomware variants are even capable of exploiting vulnerabilities in various applications, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, Java Runtime Environment (JRE), and Microsoft Windows' Common Controls.

The ransomware may also use social engineering tactics to fool users into clicking a link that downloads the malicious payload.

How Does Horsemoney Ransomware Work?

The easiest way to remove Horsemoney Ransomware is to reformat the computer. The size of the Horsemoney Ransomware may be difficult to detect by using antivirus programs. It is recommended that you back up your files first with a trusted system before removing the virus.

If there are no backups available, then you can search if a decryptor for the ransomware threat is available. Otherwise, it is best to get professional help from cybersecurity specialists.

How to Protect My Computer From Ransomware

First, users should have a good antivirus program (running at all times) to prevent the infection of their computer. Second, run a virus scan on your PC every few days to ensure that the malware is not being disseminated through any new contact with other devices. Third, keep an eye out for any changes in the email and web browser as ransomware often attempts to disguise itself as legitimate messages from companies like Microsoft and Apple.

It is also essential to back up any data located in cloud storage sites such as Dropbox or Google Drive, so if your computer has been infected with ransomware, you can wipe it clean and restore all of your files without paying the ransom.

Furthermore, do not click on links or attachments from people you do not know or trust. These details are useful in cyber-extortion and crypto-ransomware infections.

Update your software. Ensure that all your programs are updated because they may contain security vulnerabilities that the attacker can exploit to install ransomware on your computer. Normally, it is the victim's own lack of awareness of software updates that allows them to get infected in the first place.