How to remove XinFrams malware from the operating system
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What is XinFrams?
XinFrams prevents victims from accessing the operating system (restricts login and file access) by locking the screen. It displays a ransom message that contains instructions about how to pay a ransom to the developers plus various other details. Note that XinFrams is non-encrypting malware - it restricts access to files, but does not encrypt them.
The ransom message displayed by XinFrams states that all files are encrypted with the AES-256 and RSA-2048 encryption algorithms. To decrypt them, victims must use a decryption key that can be purchased for US$250 via the provided Tor website.
As mentioned, this malware does not encrypt files - it simply prevents users of the infected computer from logging into the operating system, thereby preventing them from accessing the Windows desktop and using installed programs, files, etc. In such cases, access to the operating system can be restored by uninstalling this malware.
Instructions about how to achieve this are provided below. Note that, even if malware of this type is designed encrypt files, victims should not pay ransoms to the developers. When cyber criminals are paid, they often ignore victims who are scammed.
| Name | XinFrams malware |
| Threat Type | Files locker. |
| Ransom Demand Message | Locked screen. |
| Ransom Amount | $250 |
| Detection Names | AVG (FileRepMetagen [Malware]), BitDefender (Trojan.Ransom.CEL), Emsisoft (Trojan.Ransom.CEL (B)), Kaspersky (HEUR:Hoax.MSIL.FakeRansom.gen), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Wacatac.B!ml), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal). |
| Symptoms | Can't open files stored on your computer, previously functional files now have a different extension, for example my.docx.locked. A ransom demanding message is displayed on your desktop. Cyber criminals are asking to pay a ransom (usually in bitcoins) to unlock your files. |
| Additional Information | This malware does not encrypt files. |
| Distribution methods | Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads. |
| Damage | All files are encrypted and cannot be opened without paying a ransom. Additional password stealing Trojans and malware infections can be installed together with a ransomware infection. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Some examples of other screen lockers similar to XinFrams ar BlackKnight2020, ComputerDestroyer, and Rubly. Most lock the victim's screen and provide instructions about how to contact the developers, pay the ransom and various other details.
The ransom message generated by XinFrams states that this malware encrypts files when in fact it does not, however, it is possible that it will be updated in future to encrypt data.
How did malware install on my computer?
Malware (including ransomware) is usually distributed via malspam campaigns, unofficial software activation ('cracking') tools, Trojans, dubious file/software download sources, and fake software updating tools. When cyber criminals attempt to distribute malware via malspam campaigns, they send emails that contain malicious attachments or download links for malicious files.
Typically, they disguise their emails as official and important. If recipients open the attached file (or a file downloaded via a website link), they cause installation of malicious software. Cyber criminals commonly attach executable files (.exe), archive files such as RAR, ZIP, PDF documents, JavaScript files and Microsoft Office documents to their emails.
Software 'cracking' tools supposedly activate licensed software illegally (bypass activation), however, they often install malicious programs and do not activate any legitimate installed software. Trojans are other rogue programs that can cause chain infections. I.e., when a Trojan is installed on the operating system, it can install additional malware.
Free file hosting websites, freeware download websites, Peer-to-Peer networks (e.g., torrent clients, eMule), unofficial websites, and third party downloaders are examples of other sources that are used to distribute malware. Cyber criminals disguise malicious files as legitimate and regular.
When users download and open them, they inadvertently infect their computers with malware. Fake software updating tools install malicious software rather than updates/fixes for installed programs, or they exploit bugs/flaws of outdated software that is installed on the operating system.
How to avoid installation of malware and other unwanted applications
Download software and files from official websites and via direct links. It is not safe to use torrent clients, eMule (or other Peer-to-Peer networks), third party downloaders, unofficial websites or other sources of this kind. Avoid third party installers. Check "Advanced", "Custom" and other settings, and decline offers to download or install unwanted software.
Do not click ads that are displayed on dubious websites, since they can open other untrusted websites or even cause unwanted downloads and installations. Remove any unwanted, suspicious applications (extensions, add-ons, and plug-ins) that are installed on the browser.
The same should be applied to programs of this kind that are installed on the operating system. If your computer is already infected with PUAs, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate them.
Appearance of the ransom message (GIF):
Text in the ransom message:
Ooops! Your Computer Has Been Locked!! And All Your Important Files Are Encrypted!!!
Your Computer File is AES-256 And RSA-2048 To Encrypting!!
Your File Recovery Tool And AntiVirus SOft Is Deleting!! What Virus Deleting??
250USD Payment To Computer Have Unlocked!!
24Hours Noting Payment To Notwaking Payment.....
The XinFrams Locker Coded by @hukubabaawww351JP_Hacker
Your Personal ID: -
[How To Payment?] [Show Rules] [Encrypted File List]
[Check Payment]
Screenshot of the pop-up window that appears after execution of a malicious file, which is designed to install XinFrams:
Instant automatic malware removal:
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Quick menu:
- What is XinFrams?
- STEP 1. XinFrams virus removal using safe mode with networking.
- STEP 2. XinFrams virus removal using System Restore.
XinFrams virus removal:
Step 1
Windows XP and Windows 7 users: Start your computer in Safe Mode. Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart, click OK. During your computer starting process press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until you see the Windows Advanced Option menu, then select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Video showing how to start Windows 7 in "Safe Mode with Networking":
Windows 8 users: Go to the Windows 8 Start Screen, type Advanced, in the search results select Settings. Click on Advanced Startup options, in the opened "General PC Settings" window select Advanced Startup. Click on the "Restart now" button. Your computer will now restart into "Advanced Startup options menu".
Click on the "Troubleshoot" button, then click on "Advanced options" button. In the advanced option screen click on "Startup settings". Click on the "Restart" button. Your PC will restart into the Startup Settings screen. Press "5" to boot in Safe Mode with Networking Prompt.
Video showing how to start Windows 8 in "Safe Mode with Networking":
Windows 10 users: Click the Windows logo and select the Power icon. In the opened menu click "Restart" while holding "Shift" button on your keyboard. In the "choose an option" window click on the "Troubleshoot", next select "Advanced options". In the advanced options menu select "Startup Settings" and click on the "Restart" button.
In the following window you should click the "F5" button on your keyboard. This will restart your operating system in safe mode with networking.
Video showing how to start Windows 10 in "Safe Mode with Networking":
Step 2
Log in to the account infected with the "XinFrams" virus. Start your Internet browser and download a legitimate anti-spyware program. Update the anti-spyware software and start a full system scan. Remove all entries detected.
If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking, try performing a System Restore.
Video showing how to remove viruses using "Safe Mode with Command Prompt" and "System Restore":
1. During your computer starting process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until the Windows Advanced Options menu appears, and then select Safe Mode with Command Prompt from the list and press ENTER.
2. When Command Prompt Mode loads, enter the following line: cd restore and press ENTER.
3. Next, type this line: rstrui.exe and press ENTER.
4. In the opened window, click "Next".
5. Select one of the available Restore Points and click "Next" (this will restore your computer system to an earlier time and date, prior to the "XinFrams" virus infiltrating your PC).
6. In the opened window, click "Yes".
7. After restoring your computer to a previous date, download and scan your PC with recommended malware removal software to eliminate any remnants of the "XinFrams" virus.
If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking (or with Command Prompt), boot your computer using a rescue disk. Some viruses disable Safe Mode making it's removal complicated. For this step, you require access to another computer.
After removing "XinFrams" virus from your PC, restart your computer and scan it with legitimate anti-spyware software to remove any possible remnants of this security infection.
Other tools known to remove this scam:
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