Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation) Removal Guide

Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation) is a malicious program that infects users’ computers an encrypts files it finds on them. Once the targeted files are affected the malware should show a ransom note urging to contact the threat’s developers. We are almost one hundred percent sure those who agree with the terms would receive instructions on how to pay a ransom. It is doubtful the malicious application’s developers would provide decryption tools free of charge, as money extortion is usually the main reason for creating such malware. If you continue reading our text, we will explain you more about Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation). Also, if you need help with the threat’s removal, do not forget to check the deletion instructions available at the end of the article.

Just like the name suggests Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation) is a new version of a well-known infection known as Dharma Ransomware. We believe, this new variant should be distributed through channels used when distributing previous versions, such as malicious email attachments, software installers, and so on. This is why we advise users not to open suspicious files received via email or found on unreliable web pages if they do not want to endanger their computers. The best way to void malware is to strengthen the device and keep away from potentially harmful material. To strengthen the system, we would recommend updating outdated software, old passwords, and so on. Also, it would be smart to install a reliable security tool as an extra safety layer.

Soon as the computer gets infected, Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation) should encrypt all private user’s files, for example, pictures, photos, videos, and so on. All of them should be marked with the malware’s additional extension that may look something like this id-{user id}.[audit24@qq.com].RISK. Files marked this way cannot be opened even if you rename them or change their extensions back to their original forms. The next application move of the malicious application is to show a ransom note. The message from Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation) developers may not mention anything about paying a ransom or how much you would have to pay, but we are almost sure their reply would demand it. The worst part is not the fact the sum could be significant, but the possibility, you might get scammed, as there are no guarantees the infection’s creators will hold on to their promises. Therefore, we recommend against contacting the hackers. What we recommend is erasing the malicious application.

Those of you who have no plans on contacting the hackers and risk being scammed should remove Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation) with no hesitation. To eliminate the malware manually, our specialists suggest completing all the steps located below. If the process looks too complicated, you could install a reliable antimalware tool and let it take care of the malicious application for you. In such a case, you should pick a tool of your choice, install it, and perform a full system scan. Click the removal button provided after the scan and all threats, including Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation), should be erased at once.

Get rid of Dharma Ransomware (audit24@qq.com variation)

1. Tap Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
2. Pick Task Manager.
3. Select the Processes tab.
4. Look for a process associated with the malware.
5. Select the process and click End Task.
6. Leave Task Manager.
7. Tap Win+E.
8. Go to these locations:
   %TEMP%
   %USERPROFILE%\Downloads
   %USERPROFILE%\Desktop
9. Find the malicious file opened before the system got infected, right-click it and select Delete.
10. Navigate to these paths separately:
    %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%
11. Search for files named Info.hta, right-click them and select Delete.
12. Go to these directories:
    %HOMEDRIVE%
    %PUBLIC%\Desktop
    %USERPROFILE%\Desktop
13. Find documents named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt, right-click them and select Delete.
14. Navigate to these paths:
    %WINDIR%\System32
    %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
    %ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
    %ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
15. Identify malicious executable files, e.g., file.exe; right-click them and choose Delete.
16. Close File Explorer.
17. Tap Win+R.
18. Type Regedit and click Enter.
19. Go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
20. Identify the malware’s created value name, e.g., file.exe, right-click this value name and press Delete.
21. Locate this directory: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
22. Find the malicious application’s created key, e.g., {random}.exe, right-click it and select Delete.
23. Close Registry Editor.
24. Empty Recycle Bin.
25. Restart the computer.