What to Know About the Ransomware with “.wlzfgvn” File Extension

Ransomware is among today’s biggest malware threats, having disrupted the operations of thousands of businesses and the personal lives of millions of individuals. And as this threat continues to become more sophisticated, we have decided to put together an article about one particular ransomware attacks out there, one that involves the “.wlzfgvn” file extension.

The Ransomware with “.wlzfgvn” File Extension

There are many types of ransomware infections today that wreak havoc to computers. While some are very popular such as WannaCry, Petya, and Bad Rabbit, others are quite discreet hiding behind random file extensions.

Is “.wlzfgvn” ransomware? How does ransomware with a “.wlzfgvn” file extension affect your computer? Can it be removed? How can it be prevented?

Ransomware with a “.wlzfgvn” file extension may affect your computer in different ways. But most commonly, users woke up to an otherwise ordinary day. They got up, prepared for work, drunk a cup of coffee, and started grinding to complete their tasks before they’re due. However, they noticed something different. The moment their computers have booted up and showed the desktop, they were greeted with an annoying notification telling them that their files have been locked down. The note specifically said that the files will stay temporarily inaccessible until they pay ransom money.

Again, the ransomware may have varying effects on each and every computer. The best way to know how the ransomware with “.wlzfgvn” file extension affects yours is by checking the ransom note that comes with it. Scan the encrypted files to find any possible markers or check the information associated with the email address used to send the note. You may also check the hyperlink to the payment instruction provided by the cybercriminals.

How to Remove Files with a “.wlzfgvn” Extension

Many organizations and individuals claim that paying the ransom fee is the key to retrieve the files. However, there’s really no guarantee. There is a chance that the ransomware will reinstall itself when you pay the ransom, affecting more files.

Your best option is to remove files with the “.wlzfgvn” extensions. Here’s how:

Step 1: Reboot Your Computer into Safe Mode with Networking

1. Be sure there are no DVDs, CDs, and floppy disks inserted into your computer.
2. Restart your computer.
3. When your computer switches on, press the F8 key continuously until the Advanced Boot Options appear.
4. Use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode with Networking.
5. Hit Enter.

Step 2: Remove the File with the “.wlzfgvn” Extension

1. Now that your computer has restarted into Safe Mode with Networking, launch Task Manager by pressing the CTRL + Shift + Esc keys together.
2. In the Task Manager, find the process associated with the “.wlzfgvn” extension.
3. Before you suppress the process, copy its name onto a text file for later reference.
4. Next, navigate to the %appdata%/roaming folder and delete the file.
5. Open the Windows Registry Editor and go to HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\. Review the programs and delete any suspicious-looking file.

Alternatively, you can use a reliable anti-malware tool like Outbyte Anti-Malware to automate the deletion process or neutralize the toughest malware threats

Best Ways to Prevent Ransomware Attacks and Infection

No matter how advanced our modern anti-malware software tools are, ransomware will always find a way to infiltrate computers. However, by simply observing certain practices, you can minimize the risk of being infected.

Here are some practices that we recommend:

• Don’t grant administrative rights to all users.
• Keep your antivirus software, OS, and other apps updated. Perform regular scans to identify any outdated tools.
• Configure your firewall settings.
• Install and configure intrusion detection and prevention systems to reduce the chances of being compromised.
• Think before you click.
• Make regular backups of your sensitive data. Having an offline copy is ideal.

Prevent the Ransomware Before It’s Too Late

Again, the best way to prevent and handle ransomware is prevention. Follow the security practices above like making sure to have regular backups, installing antivirus software, and staying away from any suspicious-looking attachments, and you should be safe.

Do you know other ways to handle the ransomware with “.wlzfgvn” file extension? Let us know in the comments!