What is _HOWDO_text.bmp? Should you get rid of it?

What does _HOWDO_text.bmp file include?

The reason why _HOWDO_text.bmp file appeared on your desktop is that your computer was infected with ODIN virus. This dangerous ransomware-type virus has been threatening computer users for a while and corrupted zillion of files by appending .odin file extension. Malware is an updated version of Locky virus, and their close relationship is evident because hackers offer to purchase Locky Decryptor for recovering lost data. Mostly ODIN ransomware is distributed via malicious email attachments, but you can also catch the virus by clicking on a malware-laden ad, downloading questionable software or updating programs from shady sources. Hackers use various malware transmission methods and strategies, and after infiltration start encrypting files. Later victims notice a _HOWDO_text.bmp file, which contains a ransom note. Besides, it is one of three ransom notes delivered by the virus. After the attack, you will find _HOWDO_text.html and _5_ HOWDO_text.html files on your desktop as well. It doesn’t matter which file you open, they all include the same scary information that you need to pay a particular amount of money if you want to access your files ever again. Bear in mind that criminals use psychological terror to convince you that paying the ransom is the only possible solution. Even though security experts haven’t developed free decryption tool yet, you should not rely on hackers’ word. Instead of looking for your credit card, remove _HOWDO_text.bmp with other virus-related files. Employ FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or other strong security program and scan computer’s system.

_HOWDO_text.bmp file informs victims that all their files were encrypted using a heavy algorithm. Hackers used a unique public key for data encryption, and victims have to get a private key to decrypt them. Therefore, victims have to purchase a private key and decryption program. Hackers provide all necessary links and information related to paying the ransom: how to buy Bitcoins, how to install Tor browser and so on. Crooks require using alternative currency and anonymous browser because they don’t want to be found. They might spend long years in the prison for their cyber crimes. However, you should not sponsor criminals in order to get your lost data. We firmly recommend ODIN and _HOWDO_text.bmp removal instead.

How _HOWDO_text.bmp file might appear on my computer?

Previously, we briefly explained that _HOWDO_text.bmp file appears on your computer’s desktop when ODIN virus completes data encryption. However, you should not be afraid of the ransom note. This file is not malicious itself; you should be afraid of the ransomware. Whatever you have encountered the virus or not, you should beware of its distribution techniques. As we already told you, the most popular way for malware transmission is malicious email attachments. Hackers became good at persuading people and convincing them that attachment is safe. Indeed, sometimes it’s hard to differ if the email was sent from a bank or secret hacker’s spot. For this reason, you should always double check information about the sender and make sure that the attachment is safe to open. Furthermore, various ransomware viruses might be hiding under aggressive or suspicious advertisements and waiting for you in high-risk websites. Malware might also get inside your computer if you download or update software from unreliable sources. Besides, you can minimize the risk to catch computer infection if you install a strong and reputable antivirus program.

Malware removal guide

First of all, do not remove _HOWDO_text.bmp and other files that might be related to ransomware manually. If you remove some of these files, you might cause yourself more problems. For example, some of the encrypted files might be deleted as well, and you won’t be able to recover them ever again. Deleting virus-related files is not an effective way to get rid of the ODIN virus. Your computer’s system is vulnerable due to the attack and if you delete wrong files you might cause more damage. ODIN and _HOWDO_text.bmp removal should be completed using professional anti-malware programs, such as FortectIntego or SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner.

Offer
try it now!
Download
Fortect Happiness
Guarantee
Download
Intego Happiness
Guarantee
Compatible with Microsoft Windows Compatible with macOS
What to do if failed?
If you failed to fix virus damage using Fortect Intego, submit a question to our support team and provide as much details as possible.
Fortect Intego has a free limited scanner. Fortect Intego offers more through scan when you purchase its full version. When free scanner detects issues, you can fix them using free manual repairs or you can decide to purchase the full version in order to fix them automatically.
Alternative Security Tools
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Fortect, try running SpyHunter 5.
Alternative Security Tools
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Intego, try running Combo Cleaner.
About the author
Gabriel E. Hall
Gabriel E. Hall - Passionate virus researcher

If you found this free tutorial helpful, please consider making a donation to support us. Even the smallest amount will be appreciated and will help to keep this service alive.

Contact Gabriel E. Hall
About the company Esolutions

Uninstall guides in different languages