Geek's Advice

.google ransomware defined: A computer virus that aims to take your files hostage

.google ransomware is a malicious virus created by cybercriminals to encrypt their victims’ computer files to extort ransom payments. Another name for this virus is GoGoogle, but regardless of its name, this ransomware has absolutely no link with Google Inc. This virus functions by encrypting all files it comes in contact and thereafter renames each one using this algorithm: original/existing filename→ unique ID → the cybercriminals email contact address → lastly, .google extension.  

Here is a realistic depiction of it, for a file previously existing as “1.jpg” would eventually be transformed to: 1.jpg_ID_738713657_dinanit@protonmail.com.google when the process is completed. Then a ransom message known as “FireRecovery.txt” will be dropped. 

Contained in the ransom message is a statement claiming that the entire data as contained in the compromised system have been encrypted i.e. made unreadable. It then directs the user to get in touch with them through the email address if they hope to reclaim the data. However, the victim must include the unique ID that was issued to them when responding to the cybercriminals.  

They will also suggest for the victim to include a couple of encrypted files for them to decrypt as evidence of their capability to restore the files. They will also warn that trying to decrypt the files manually will lead to irreversible data loss. 

Unfortunately, a significant proportion of ransomware encryptions can’t be reversed without the involvement of the rogue developers behind it. However, if the malware is still in its developmental phase or has bugs/flaws (or both), then chances of it being successfully decrypted increases sharply. Regardless of the situation, we strongly advise victims of cybercriminals not to reach out nor respond to the cybercriminals and neither should they pay any ransom demand. 

Our stance is based on the fact that there is no guarantee you will receive any effective decryption tool and neither would your data be recovered. Thus, it becomes a double whammy for victims to lose their data, and also lose their money and time. However, to prevent further data loss, you must remove .google ransomware virus from the compromised system ASAP. For this matter, we recommend using INTEGO Antivirus and additionally scan the system with RESTORO (secure download link) to repair virus damage caused to Windows OS files.

Once you’re sure the virus is totally removed, you can then use any backup storage means to restore your lost data. That is why it’s crucial to externally back-up your data at all times, because not having any after a ransomware attack could automatically mean a total and irreversible loss of important data. 

Ransomware Summary

REMOVE MALWARE & REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE

How computer systems become compromised with ransomware

All forms of malware (ransomware inclusive) are spread through various means as listed below:

• Spam Campaigns
• Illegal Activations/ “crack” tools
• Trojans
• Fake Updates
• Illegitimate third party download sites

Notwithstanding the channel cybercriminals may decide to use in spreading ransomware, one thing is constant. They’re always deceptive. They may use emails and pretend to be from service providers, popular institutions or companies etc. only to insert the infectious virus as attachments or links within the email. Also, they make use of diverse formats, particularly PDF, MS office, JavaScript or any other executable files. Thus, once the victim opens them, they inadvertently unleash malware on their system. 

Unsuspecting users try to make use of illegal activations/ “crack” tools or other pirated products because they don’t want to go through the recommended channels that would require paying for the cost. However, they end up triggering disastrous Trojans instead of the software they hoped for. That is why such dangerous third-party sites such as unofficial platforms including free file-hosting sites, and P2P sharing networks must be avoided at all costs. 

How to prevent your computer from getting infected with ransomware

If you are in the habit of opening emails indiscriminately, then you must stop now. Scrutinize all emails that arrive your inbox to ascertain if they’re genuine before deciding to open them or not. If they’re not genuine or appear unsolicited, then do not open them or any attachment/links contained in them. Also, make use of only official sites for any form of activations, software copies or tools. 

Since “cracks” or illegal activation tools and software copies from illegal third party are some of the most prolific ways these malwares are spread, you must avoid such contents at all times, no matter how appealing they may seem. Most importantly, you need to have a strong and effective antivirus software installed in your system and also keep them updated. You should also run regular scans to prevent or remove any malware that may be detected. 

If you weren’t proactive enough and Google ransomware virus infects your computer, it becomes necessary to scan your computer with INTEGO Antivirus — we recommend this particular antivirus because it is absolutely efficient in safeguarding computer systems against all forms of malware. 

An example of .google ransomware (“FireRecovery.txt”) text file is shown below:

Below is a screenshot of infected files encrypted with Gogoogle (“.google” extension):

Remove .google Ransomware Virus Efficiently

When infected with this type of computer virus, it is important to secure your computer and your privacy as soon as possible. We recommend that you follow the steps given below and, in case you do not have a robust antivirus yet, we suggest using INTEGO Antivirus to remove .google ransomware virus. Additionally, we usually suggest downloading and scanning the infected system with RESTORO which can repair virus damage to Windows OS files without the need to reinstall the operating system.

Additional steps towards better computer security after ransomware attack are listed below.

• Report the incident to relevant authorities nearest to you;
• Search online for relevant ransomware decryption tools that may be available;
• Make use of data recovery tools to restore your files;
• Always have data backups for all your important files.

Ransom payment should never be an option, and trying to find decryption tools online can sometimes be a fruitless effort. The most proactive and smart way to prevent a ransomware attack is to avoid all the causative agents as pointed out in this article. Above all, you should keep an effective and strong antivirus active in your system at all times. If you do have any antivirus you can trust, then we strongly recommend INTEGO Antivirus because it is nearly 100% reliable.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:

STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS

REMOVE & PROTECT WITH INTEGO

Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7.. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs.

Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.

Read full review here.

STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

DOWNLOAD RESTORO

RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically.

RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

Read full review here.

GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

If you're looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek's Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.

Norbert Webb

Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.