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Published Aug 24, 2011 | Updated Sep 15, 2017

Ransom:Win32/Adslock.A

Detected by Microsoft Defender Antivirus

Aliases: No associated aliases

Summary

Windows Defender detects and removes this threat.

This threat stops you from loading Windows and displays a full-screen message, commonly called a "lock screen". If this threat asks you to pay a fee or fine, do not pay it. The message is a fraud.

It tries to scare you into paying a fine to unlock your PC.

Windows 10 protects you from ransomware. Read more:

Windows 10 Creators Update provides next-gen ransomware protection

You can read more about this type of threat on our ransomware page.

Microsoft doesn’t recommend you pay the fine. There is no guarantee that paying the ransom will give you access to your files.

If you've already paid, see our ransomware page for help on what to do now.

Run antivirus or antimalware software

The following free Microsoft software detects and removes this threat:

You should also run a full scan. A full scan might find other hidden malware.

Advanced troubleshooting

To restore your PC, you might need to download and run Windows Defender Offline. See our advanced troubleshooting page for more help.

Get more help

You can also ask for help from other PC users at the Microsoft virus and malware community.

If you’re using Windows XP, see our Windows XP end of support page.

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