How to Remove HC7 Ransomware (Virus Removal Guide)

HC7 is a version of ransomware that encrypts personal files on a computer it infects, adds a new file extension to the end of the filenames of the files it encrypted, and drops a text file that contains a ransom note throughout the infected machine. One of the newest variants of HC7 ransomware is the PLANETARY virus.

HC7 ransomware

The text file dropped by the ransomware essentially details what happened to the files on the machine and how to make a ransom payment to allegedly decrypt the files (the way the malware author wants you to). It should be noted that paying the ransom will not guarantee that you will recover your files or that the infection is removed and will not happen again in the future.

HC7 ransomware is typically spread like most ransomware is these days. It can be introduced to a machine from a website that hosts malware or through malicious email attachments. Emails messages often contain malicious attachments, that when executed, will launch the malware across the machine.


Removing HC7 Ransomware (Removal Guide)

The HC7 ransomware removal guide on this page will help you remove HC7 viruses and other malware from your computer for free. This guide will also help you decrypt and recover files encrypted by the ransomware.

1. Remove malicious files with Malwarebytes
2. Clean up and repair associated issues with CCleaner

Decryption
Troubleshoot


1. Remove malicious files with Malwarebytes

1. Open your browser window and download Malwarebytes 3.0 Premium or Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free.

2. Open the executable file (mb3-setup.exe or other) to begin installing Malwarebytes.

3. In some versions of the installation file you can simply select your language and click Next to install the program; Otherwise, select your language, click Next, then select “I accept the agreement,” click the Next button several times, and then click the Install button to install Malwarebytes. Click Finish once the install process is complete.

4. Open Malwarebytes and click the Scan Now button on the Dashboard to begin scanning your computer.

5. Click the Quarantine Selected button once the scan is finished.

6. If Malwarebytes says “All selected items have been removed successfully. A log file has been saved to the logs folder. Your computer needs to be restarted to complete the removal process. Would you like to restart now?” click the Yes button to restart your computer.

2. Clean up and repair associated issues with CCleaner

1. Open your browser window and download CCleaner Professional or CCleaner Free.

2. Open the executable file (ccsetup.exe or other) to begin installing CCleaner.

3. Click the Install button to begin stalling the program.

4. Click Run CCleaner to open the program when installation is complete.

5. Select the Cleaner tab and click the Analyze button.

6. When the Analyze process is complete click the Run Cleaner button to clean all files.

7. Next, select the Registry tab and click the Scan for Issues button to scan for issues in your registry.

8. When the scan is complete click the Fix selected Issues button and Fix All Selected Issues button to fix the issues.

9. Next, select the Tools tab and click Startup. Examine each area, search for suspicious entries, and delete any suspicious startup entries by selecting the entry and clicking the Delete button.

10. Next, click Browser Plugins and search each internet browser for unwanted browser add-ons and extensions. Click the extension you want to delete and click the Delete button to remove it.


File Recovery Software

NAME DESCRIPTION DOWNLOAD
Shadow Explorer Restores lost or damaged files from Shadow Copies Download (Free)
Photorec Recovers lost files Download (Free)
Recuva Recovers lost files Download (Free) | Buy

Troubleshoot

Alternative methods are suggested if there are issues removing HC7 ransomware from an infected computer.

How to Restore your computer

If a restore point has previously been established on your machine you will be able to perform a system restore in order to restore your machine to a date and time before it was infected. You will lose files on your computer that were obtained prior to the restore point.

There are several options to restore your computer. Most computers have their own restore software that can be found by performing a search. Additionally, computers that run the Windows Operating System have a default restore program that can also be found by performing a search.

A boot screen that can be used to access options to restore your computer can be reached by rebooting your computer and pressing the F8 key once the manufacture screen is displayed.

How to Recover your computer to factory settings

A system recovery (or reset) will recover your computer to factory settings. You will lose the current programs and files on your computer.

There are several options to recover your computer to factory settings. Most computers have their own recovery software that can be found by performing a search. Additionally, computers that run the Windows Operating System have a default recovery program that can also be found by performing a search.

A boot screen that can be used to access options to restore your computer can be reached by rebooting your computer and pressing the F8 key once the manufacture screen is displayed.

Sean Doyle

Sean is a distinguished tech author and entrepreneur with over 20 years of extensive experience in cybersecurity, privacy, malware, Google Analytics, online marketing, and various other tech domains. His expertise and contributions to the industry have been recognized in numerous esteemed publications. Sean is widely acclaimed for his sharp intellect and innovative insights, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the tech community. His work not only advances the field but also helps businesses and individuals navigate the complexities of the digital world.

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