Windows Activation Pro Scam
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What is Windows Activation Pro?
Windows Activation Pro is a malware (scam), which locks victims' computers and then displays a window stating that malicious software has been detected and that the victim must enter a valid Windows Activation Key. It is also stated that the victim may call Customer Support via a telephone number provided (1-844-459-8882) to receive help in solving this problem.
After system infiltration, Windows Activation Pro modifies various settings allowing it to display a fake BSOD (Blue Screen Of Death) stating that the Windows copy has expired. Entering an Activation Key, however, does not remove the lock. Therefore, users have no choice but to call the aforementioned Customer Support number.
Be aware that the persons behind this telephone number are cyber criminals who attempt to sell unnecessary support services. They will ask victims to make certain payments in exchange for a valid Product Key, which will supposedly remove the lock. This behavior is common to various ransomware-type viruses.
We strongly advise you not to call the telephone number or pay the ransom. The developers of the 'Windows Activation Pro' scam aim to generate as much revenue as possible by attempting to trick you into paying, and then ignoring you. Furthermore, they might steal your credit card information, which can lead to serious privacy issues or even identity theft.
Although Windows Activation Pro scam does not encrypt system files, it shares many similarities with other ransomware-type viruses. Examples include Bloccato, Locky, CryptoHitman, and Cerber. All infiltrate the computer, encrypt files, and demand a ransom.
The only differences are size of ransom and type of algorithm used to encrypt the files. Research shows that most viruses are distributed via infectious email attachments, peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, fake software updates, and/or trojans.
Therefore, be cautious when opening attachments sent from unrecognized/suspicious email addresses and when downloading files/software from third party sources. Keeping all installed applications up-to-date and using a legitimate anti-spyware or anti-virus suite is also paramount.
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Quick menu:
- What is Windows Activation Pro?
- STEP 1. "Windows Activation Pro" virus removal using safe mode with networking.
- STEP 2. "Windows Activation Pro" ransomware removal using System Restore.
"Windows Activation Pro" 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":
Step 2
Log in to the account infected with the Windows Activation Pro "Your computer has been blocked" 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 ransomware virus 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 Windows Activation Pro ransomware 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 Windows Activation Pro "Your computer has been blocked up for safety reasons" virus.
If you cannot start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking (or with Command Prompt), boot your computer using a rescue disk. Some variants of ransomware disable Safe Mode making its removal complicated. For this step, you require access to another computer.
After removing "Your computer has been blocked up for safety reasons" virus from your PC, restart your computer and scan it with legitimate antispyware software to remove any possible remnants of this security infection.
Other tools known to remove the Windows Activation Pro "Your computer has been blocked up for safety reasons" virus:
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