The threats of security computing they are everywhere. From downloads on the Internet, through the pages and their cookies to the use of removable devices. In general we are talking about virus, but in particular of the so-called Recycler.
Few malware are so annoying like this. And although experts categorize it with a medium danger level, the truth is that it is a threat to infected files and information.
The two most important problems it represents are virulence (worth the redundancy) with which it propagates and imperceptible that can become. To avoid this unwanted guest on your device or even to eliminate it, we recommend the following post.
What is Virus Recycler and how does it work on removable drives?
It’s about a malware designed to compromise the Windows operating system. It spreads through removable devices such as discs external devices, flash memories, pendrives, etc. The first sign of the presence of this virus is a system message that indicates “Recycler.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close.” As we mentioned before, it is quite an infectious program and only affects Windows operating systems given its file auto-run features.
The virus works as follows, when a removable memory-type device is placed in a carrier computer, the malware writes a file to it “autorun.inf” next to an executable “Recycler.exe“. The first problem is that these two, are housed in a hidden way and they are difficult to detect with the naked eye. Then when inserting this same device into another PC, auto executable is activated performing a copy of the virus on the system. That is, in its new carrier.
In this way, when inserting new devices the cycle repeats and malware spreads. The second drawback of this virus is that violates our system Y leaves the door open to new malicious programs that can be more dangerous. Furthermore, it is capable of corrupting web browsers, redirecting to sites with more malicious content.
Learn step by step how to remove the virus from the shortcuts on your pendrive
At first we mentioned that the first symptom was the appearance of a poster. But this does not always happen. However, if you enter the content of the external disk or pendrive you will see that all files and archives have been transformed into shortcuts.
Which will corroborate that you are a victim of the virus. But do not worry, since being such a popular virus there are different solutions and methods to eliminate it. In this post we will show you the way to permanently remove it from your device. The first thing and what we always recommend is have a powerful antivirus installed with real-time protection capability. There are many, very good and free on the internet. It will be able to identify it just by placing the removable hardware.
However, it may not remove it completely, so you will need to take a few additional steps:
- Opens one by one all the devices you think infected and repeat the following operation.
- In the tab “View” from the browser, check the box “Show hidden items”.
- Locate the files “Desktop.ini”, “b845ef76.ece” Y “autorun.inf” as well as the files “RECYCLER” Y “DRIVER”.
- Select them (You will not know!) and press the combination “Shift + Del”.
Unfortunately, when performing this operation all shortcuts, that were once files, will also disappear. But there is no reason to be alarmed, because they are recoverable.
You just have to follow these instructions:
- From the Start menu, select “Run” or press the key “Windows + R”.
- Writes “CMD” and later “To accept”.
- When the sale opens, locate the corresponding letter to the removable device.
- Select the disk with its respective identification. For example, for F it would be “F:”. Whereupon the line would appear as
F:>. - Enter the command
attrib -s -r -h /s /dand press “Enter”. - By doing so, all files and archives will return to normal on your device.
Tips to prevent your removable drives from being contaminated with recycler virus
Of course, the best way not to deal with this virus and prevent it from infecting our computer is preventing contagion.
For this we have five recommendations that will help you keep this unwanted out of your system and devices:
Opt for the best antivirus you can have
If it is among your possibilities choose the one with the most real-time protection features. Most are usually paid, but if you can’t afford the expense, there are very good ones on the Internet that are free. A good antivirus will stop the infection before it spreads to the operating system. At the same time you will achieve warn you of potentially dangerous websites for the security of your device.
Be careful where you put the pen
The advice applies equally to external drives, flash memories, even mobile phones. Since the malware will try automatically jump from one infected computer to all of them. To prevent this risk as much as possible, you can incorporate an antivirus for USB in each device. In turn, analyze it every time you put it in unreliable sources.
Avoid unsafe pages
We refer to illegal download sites, as well as those who do not have security certifications corresponding. These websites are a breeding ground for all kinds of malware. They often feature deceptive banners and buttons that open the back doors of your computer system.
Turn off autoplay
With this you will prevent it from running reading external devices without your authorization.
To achieve or verify this do the following:
- Login to “Control Panel”.
- Then “Hardware and sound”.
- Locate “Autoplay”.
- Disable the option “Use autoplay” across all media and devices.
Recommend these processes and tips to your friends
It may seem banal, but this way you will minimize the risk of spreading Recycler between computers the removable devices walk through. In the same way, it is recommended that you carry out security checks on the PCs that you use regularly, such as those at work.