Prevent Shortcut Virus by Disabling AutoRun

Shortcut Virus is a virus which comes from a malware infected flashdrive and spreads the infection when it was plugged into a computer. The behavior of this virus is to hides files or change your files into shortcuts in your USB Drive. And this situation is very irritating when we badly need our files for an important matter. There are many ways to unhide our files infected from shortcut virus such as using command prompt or using third-party software. But how can we prevent this shortcut virus so that it will never infect our computer.

To prevent USB Shortcut Virus from infecting your computer. Please follow the instructions below carefully:

Step 1 : Download [DisableAutorunFunctionalityinWindows.zip]

Step 2 : Extract it using file decompressor such as 7-Zip or Winrar

Step 3: After extracting the zipped file, you can see 4 registry files, Double Click or open the 3 registry files namely 'Disable Autorun for All Drives_HKCU', 'Disable Autorun for All Drives_HKLM' and 'Disable Autorun_Sys'.

• [message]
• Registry Editor
• Adding information can unintentionally change or delete values and cause components to stop working correctly. If you do not trust the source of this information in C:\SamplePath\Sample.reg, do not add it to the registry. Are you sure you want to continue?

When there's a popup like this, just click 'Yes'.

Step 4 : Restart your desktop or laptop to apply changes.

Additional Reminders:

- Update your Antivirus regularly to get latest signatures of new threats, thus, your PC/laptop is well protected against viruses, malware, spyware and other harmful computer threats.

- Run boot scan once a month.

- Always enable your Antivirus' USB auto scan feature for extra level of protections against USB viruses.

- Also remember, not to open files by double clicking the USB path/folder directly because it will execute possible autorun.inf virus. Just navigate only through the navigation pane.

This procedure is the safest way to prevent shortcut virus or any flashdrive viruses in infecting your PC, laptop of flashdrives. This helpful tips applies to Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1 and the latest OS Windows 10.

Disabling AutoRun can also prevent attacks from the popular ransomware virus WannaCry.

For more computer tips, visit PinoyTechSaga daily.

Image Source: Wikipedia