The new year is often a time for new beginnings. Unfortunately, it’s also a time for new malware editions — this time, it’s Anatova ransomware, recently discovered by McAfee. So far, the malware has affected users in the United States and nine other countries and is predicted to expand its geography.

In this article, we’ll show you how to block Anatova ransomware on a Windows 10 PC and how to remove Anatova ransomware from your computer.

What is Anatova ransomware?

Detected on a private peer-to-peer network, Anatova ransomware poses as a game or another “safe” application and tricks users into downloading, installing and opening it. Once in your system, the malware requests admin rights and proceeds to encrypt the files on your PC and all the files on shared networks.

Anatova ransomware will then demand a ransom in the value of 10 Dash coins, which equals approximately $700, to decrypt your files.

How to remove Anatova ransomware from your PC

In the unfortunate case of your computer having been infected with Anatova ransomware, there are several steps you can take to remove Anatova ransomware from your PC.

  1. Step one is to boot your computer into Safe mode with Networking.

In order to do so:

  • Click on the power button on the Windows login screen.
  • Press and hold the Shift key and click on Restart.
  • Select Troubleshoot, pick Advanced options and click on Startup Settings.
  • Select Restart from th: e list of options.
  • Once the Startup Settings window pops up, select Enable Safe mode with Command Prompt.
  1. Step two is to restore your system files and settings:
  • Go to Start and navigate to the Windows System.
  • Locate Command Prompt, right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
  • Enter “cd restore” and confirm by pressing Enter.
  • Type in rstrui.exe and press Enter again.
  • Click the Next button in the new System Restore window, select a restore point before Anatova ransomware corrupted your system and click Next.
  • Confirm the system restore process by clickingYes.

After the system restore is complete, you will need to confirm that Anatova malware has been removed from your system. You can do that by running a simple antivirus scan, using malware protection software like Auslogics Anti-Malware.

How to block Anatova ransomware on a Windows 10 PC

The best way to avoid system problems on your computer and protect yourself from malware is to take precautions before the virus makes its way into your system. While removing malware is definitely possible, it can be quite time- and resource-consuming — and prevention is definitely the best cure in this case.

There are several simple steps that you can take to keep your PC safe from potential virus infections:

  • Download your applications and software only from official stores and sources and install only official updates.
  • Beware of free “too good to be true” software downloads from suspicious websites.
  • Do not ignore safety warnings sent by your browser or system when surfing the web.
  • Do not open suspicious emails from unknown senders and use strong passwords for your accounts.
  • Keep your system current: make sure not to delay updates for too long as they often include improvements in security features.
  • Back up all of your important files onto a hard drive in case they get corrupted in a malware attack.
  • Finally, make sure you have a reliable anti-malware program installed and run regular virus scans.

Auslogics Anti-Malware is an efficient tool in both preventing and battling malware infection. The software will keep your system safe and secure by running regular automatic scans, and you will be able to use it alongside your main anti-virus program.

Have you encountered Anatova ransomware on your PC? Share in the comments below.