Remove BBOO Ransomware Virus (2023 Guide)

BBOO file virus encrypts personal data to demand $490 as a ransom

BBOO ransomware is a malicious data-encrypting virus that originates from STOP/DJVU malware group. It is the 205th version of it, discovered by M. Gillespie. Once installed on victim’s computer, it encrypts personal files stored on it, adding .bboo file extensions to mark corrupted data. Next, the virus creates ransom note and saves it it _readme.txt files all over the compromised computer. The note contains cybercriminals’ demands to pay a ransom worth $490 in Bitcoin within 3 days, otherwise the price goes up to $980. The victim is suggested to test the decryption tool and get further info by writing to helpmanager@firemail.cc or helpmanager@iran.ir.

BBOO ransomware encrypts files using unbreakable encryption algorithm. There is no way to restore files without having a private decryption key. However, STOP/DJVU variants use either offline or online encryption keys to lock victim’s data safely. Based on encryption method used, the victim may or may not expect to recover some files in the future.

How the virus operates: the offline and online encryption cases

Once installed on the target host, the ransomware first checks whether it can connect to its Command& Control server. If it does, it uses it to obtain ONLINE encryption keys, which are individual for each victim. In other words, nobody else gets these encryption keys, therefore nobody else’s decryption keys will match yours.

When BBOO file virus fails to establish connection with C&C server, it uses a hardcoded OFFLINE encryption key, which is the same one for all victims subject to offline encoding attack. Once someone pays a ransom and receives a decryption key, such key can be shared with others. Usually, security experts ask to contact them so that tools like STOP Decryptor could be updated.

BBOO ransomware virus’ developers won’t tell you whether your files were encrypted with online or offline key. Therefore, you have to check your personal ID to realize that. Please do not check the personal ID stored in the _readme.txt file – it might not reflect the situation accurately (since several keys can be used).

Instead, go to C:/SystemID/ and open PersonalID.txt file here. If any of the stored keys end in t1, it is a good sign meaning that an offline key was used at least on part of your files. If it is the ONLY ID here ending in t1, it means that ALL of your files were locked with offline key, and there might be chances to recover all of them.

Threat Summary

Name	BBOO ransomware virus
Type	File-encrypting malware
Origins	STOP/DJVU (205th version)
Targeted systems	Windows
Behavior	Prevents access to personal files by encrypting them, demands ransom in exchange for data recovery tool
File extension	Marks files with .bboo extension
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490-$980
Emails	helpmanager@firemail.cc, helpmanager@iran.ir
Distribution	Distributed via software cracks, keygens, KMSPico
Decryption tools	STOP Decryptor doesn’t support the 205th ransomware variant yet
Removal	Remove using antivirus while in Safe Mode (use instructions given below)

However, you must be aware that this ransomware virus installs AZORULT password-snatching Trojan on the system, which can steal and use your login credentials for malicious purposes. Therefore, do not delay the computer cleanse and remove BBOO ransomware virus along with AZORULT as soon as you can. You may want to use the free instructions provided at the end of this article.

The ransom-demanding message

BBOO ransomware creators seek to extort money from computer users, especially those with little or no computing experience. Unfortunately, the majority of computer users still fail to realize the importance of having data backups, which come in handy in case of ransomware attack, computer corruption or loss.

The _readme.txt file explains that the only way to restore encrypted .bboo extension files is to pay a ransom for the cybercriminals. The note doesn’t contain cryptowallet address belonging to the criminals. It simply explains that the victim has to buy Bitcoins and transfer them to a specified wallet. If the victim rushes to do so within 3 days since the attack, the ransom price stays $490. Otherwise, it increases to $980.

We do not recommend paying the ransom. By doing so, you would support the billion-dollar worth industry of malware.

DJVU variants await in malicious files

DJVU ransomware variants, such as BBOO, REPP, ALKA, BTOS and others are known to be waiting for victims in a form of malicious and often illegal downloads. To be precise, malware developers tend to conceal these as software cracks, keygens, or other tools used to activate software licenses in an illegal way (without paying for the license).

Please remember that by downloading such files (for example, KMSPico) you infringe the software developers’ copyrights and expose yourself to the wide range of malware available today. Some malicious viruses such as AZORULT won’t display any malicious activity until you’ll notice suspicious activity on your other accounts. This, unfortunately, can go on for months before you notice it.

Ransomware developers also tend to employ such distribution tactics as email spam. It is an extremely widely used technique to hunt for unsuspecting victims. Once the victim clicks on an attached link or file, the malware can easily jump into the computer system and starts its malevolent activity right away.

The best way to remove BBOO ransomware virus

If you’re looking for the best way to remove BBOO ransomware virus from your computer, look no futher. We have prepared an easy-to-follow guidances on how to eliminate this threat along with AZORULT malware from your PC instantly.

BBOO file virus removal might seem complicated, but if you use a trustworthy and, what’s most important, an up-to-date antivirus, you’ll have no issues with this task. Next, we suggest changing your passwords and start looking for your data backups.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:

GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

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System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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