I wrote this article to help you remove Bart Ransomware. This Bart Ransomware removal guide works for all Windows versions.
The ransomware family is, absolutely, the worst cyber infection you could possibly get. These file-locking parasites want nothing but money from you so blackmail you for it. And the worst part is that this dread malware family keeps on growing. The Bart Ransomware is its latest addition. Researchers say that Bart has some things in common with the notorious Locky. As you may know, Locky is one of the most dangerous representatives of the ransomware group. Even the smallest similarity between it and Bart means you are dealing with a serious threat.
All ransomware are a scam aiming at your bank account. If you don’t want to be their next victim get rid of Bart as soon as possible. As the majority of ransomware infections, Bart follows a pretty standard pattern. First, it enters your system in complete silence. Second, it locks all of your files. And third, it extorts you for money in exchange for giving you a key to recover your data.
When Bart has managed to slither in, it goes to work immediately. For starters, the ransomware performs a quick scan of your machine searching for important files to lock. And it doesn’t take it long to find them all. Pictures, videos, music, documents, Word files, etc. Then, it encrypts every single one of them by utilizing a strong encryption cipher. It appends its own malicious .bart.zip extension at the end of each one. Seeing this extension means you no longer have access to your data. It has been modified and your PC cannot recognize it anymore. What you are left with are unusable empty icons. Bart does differentiate from its relatives with one thing, though. It creates an individual zip archive for each of the encrypted files.
All of this is an attempt you scare you so you would think the only way of having your precious files back is paying. As we mentioned, your money is the only thing the ransomware cares about. During the encryption process, Bart creates a ransom note for you and drops it on your desktop. This is one more scare tactic. In the note, the crooks explain you the situation claiming that unless you pay your files will be gone forever. The sum Bart`s developers want is 3 Bitcoins which equals to $2000.
You are also given instructions on how exactly to make the transfer. According to them, you have to use the Tor browser to make the payment. Keep in mind that this is the worst possible option. We mean paying in general, no matter which browser you use. Paying won`t help you get your data back. In fact, it will cause you more problems. By giving these crooks money you also give them access to your private life and personal information. And they won`t send you the tool you need. They are cyber criminals and dealing with them is a risky business. Once they receive your money, their goal is complete and your files remain locked. Not to mention that the money you give them will be used for expanding the ransomware business. Don’t encourage this illegitimate industry.
The most important thing is not to panic when you see all of your data encrypted. The crooks want you to be nervous as in a vulnerable position you would be more willing to pay. Don’t let yourself be fooled. And don’t be naïve. Luckily for you, we are offering an easy to follow removal guide which will help you remove this greedy pest from your machine. And a piece of advice for the future: always make backups of your most important files. If you do, you will be able to safely recover everything after deleting the parasite from your system. And watch out for other infections. Usually, ransomware pieces travel in email attachments. If you tend to click open each email you get, you risk being infected with a dangerous threat. Like in your current case.
Be more careful with the messages you receive. Another entering techniques include freeware, corrupted pages/links/ads, fake updates. A ransomware can even use the help of a Trojan to get in. You have to be on the alert all the time when online. When you download a program be careful with the installation process. Don’t rush it and read twice what you are agreeing to. Don’t skip the Terms and Conditions and opt for the Advanced settings in the Setup Wizard. Remember.
As infections need your permission, they ask for it in the sneakiest way possible. So, what they need even more that your approval is your distraction and negligence. If you are a little bit more attentive you have a chance at catching the pest on time. Be vigilant and don’t give these parasites what they want. Don’t make yourself an easier target.
Bart Ransomware Uninstall
Method 1: Restore your encrypted files using ShadowExplorer
Usually, Bart Ransomware deletes all shadow copies, stored in your computer. Luckily, the ransomware is not always able to delete the shadow copies. So your first try should be restoring the original files from shadow copies.
- Download ShadowExplorer from this link: http://www.shadowexplorer.com/downloads.html.
- Install ShadowExplorer
- Open ShadowExplorer and select C: drive on the left panel
- Choose at least a month ago date from the date field
- Navigate to the folder with encrypted files
- Right-click on the encrypted file
- Select “Export” and choose a destination for the original file
Method 2: Restore your encrypted files by using System Restore
- Go to Start –> All programs –> Accessories –> System tools –> System restore
- Click “Next“
- Choose a restore point, at least a month ago
- Click “Next“
- Choose Disk C: (should be selected by default)
- Click “Next“. Wait for a few minutes and the restore should be done.
Method 3: Restore your files using File Recovery Software
If none of the above method works, you should try to recover encrypted files by using File Recovery Software. Since Bart Ransomware first makes a copy of the original file, then encrypts it and deletes the original one, you can successfully restore the original, using a File Recovery Software. Here are a few free File Recovery Software programs:
