BPWS ransomware attacks personal files on a computer, takes them hostage
Contents
BPWS ransomware is a new file-encrypting virus that belongs to the widespread STOP/DJVU ransomware family. This specific malware variant locks all files on infected computers with the help of data encryption, marks filenames with additional .bpws extension, and drops ransom notes called _readme.txt on the system. To illustrate how files are renamed, see this example: files originally named 1.jpg and 2.xls will appear as 1.jpg.bpws and 2.xls.bpws following a successful ransomware attack. What this means is that there will be no way for the computer user to access these files until a decryption key is provided by the attackers.
The cybercriminals behind this computer virus expect the victim to comply with their demands and pay a ransom in exchange for BPWS decryption tool and key that they promise to provide after receiving the ransom. People who fall in such unfortunate situations should remember that paying a ransom hardly solves the issue.
What is worse, this ransomware often runs together with information-stealing Trojans capable of stealing user’s passwords, browsing history, cookies and other relevant details.
The message left in the _readme.txt file demands money
The ransomware operators for sure want the victim to understand their message loud and clear, so they drop the ransom note in each of data folders containing encrypted files. The _readme.txt note begins by asking for victim’s attention, and then suggests that all data types, including images, videos, audio files and archives were encrypted with robust algorithms. It also explains that the sole way to restore files back to normal is by using a BPWS decryption software and private key. The note suggests purchasing it from the ransomware operators for a specified price.
Speaking of the ransom, the criminals introduce conditions of its pricing. According to the note, victims who contact the criminals within 3 days will be eligible for a 50% discount, which means the decryption means would cost $490. Otherwise, the criminals will demand $980. In both cases, they will require the victim to convert such amount to cryptocurrency and transfer it to their wallet address, thus ensuring some level of anonymity for the transaction.
To convince the computer user to do as they say, they introduce “test decryption” service, which allows the victim to decrypt one small file for free. In order to try this decryption, the user is asked to send one encrypted file, typically one that doesn’t contain sensitive information, via provided email addresses: support@freshmail.top or datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. The victim is also asked to include Personal ID string, one that’s provided at the end of the _readme.txt note, for identification purposes. The crooks promise to reply with a decrypted file version attached.
However, it is important to point out the fact that paying the ransom doesn’t mean your data will be restored. As advised by FBI and NCSC, it is not advisable to pay up, as it encourages the cybercriminals to continue their activities. Plus, you might be identified as an obedient victim and might be targeted in future attacks in hopes to extort even more money from you.
Therefore, if you have fallen victim to a malware attack, we strongly recommend taking action to secure your device now. First of all, to remove BPWS ransomware virus, use the free instructions presented below this article. You will learn how to boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking and run your antivirus from there. Our team recommends using a trustworthy antivirus that offers real-time protection feature, such as INTEGO Antivirus. It is also a good idea to download RESTORO and use it to detect and repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.
Ransomware Summary
Name | BPWS Ransomware Virus |
Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
Family | STOP/DJVU |
Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
Previous versions | KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (find full list here) |
Version | 627th |
Extension | .bpws |
Cybercriminal emails | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
Additional malware dropped | Azorult, RedLine or Vidar malware |
Damage | The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .bpws extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online. |
Ransom note | _readme.txt |
Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
Distribution | Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico. |
Known software cracks to contain this malware | Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, League of Legends. |
Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Azorult.FW!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
Removal | Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link). |
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Ransomware distribution techniques
Ransomware-type viruses are typically distributed either via email spam, illegal downloads, fake advertisements or other methods. The primary method used to spread STOP/DJVU variants like BPSM virus is illegal downloads that cybercriminals set up as a trap for potential victims online.
It is believed that cybercriminals control a set of rogue websites that advertise fake software cracks, which computer users download in hopes to install premium software versions for free. What is worse, these deceptive websites successfully appear in online search engine results, so unsuspecting users may stumble upon them without realizing the danger that lies in them.
Computer users should avoid such shady downloads at all costs, no matter if they’re provided via direct download links or torrents. First of all, using cracked or pirated software is an act of a copyright infringement, and second, such files usually contain malware. In this case, opening the malicious setup file provided in a password-protected archive results in complete data encryption.
Another common ransomware distribution method relies on malicious email spam. The threat actors compose deceptive messages accompanied by some email attachments and then distribute them to lists of potential targets. Whoever falls for the trap and opens the malicious attachment ends up getting their files encrypted. In order to avoid getting exposed to such malware, it is advisable to avoid opening email attachments or inserted links from emails that seem unfamiliar or reach you by surprise.
Finally, cybercriminals might try to deliver malware via rogue online ads or software bundles. Often times, malicious ads advertise well-known software updates, but their installers are set up to install a bunch of junkware or malware on victim’s computer. Computer users should follow cybersecurity experts’ advice and only download software or updates from reliable sources.
All in all, the best way to keep your computer protected is to practice safe browsing habits, create regular data backups and protect the system from unexpected threats using a robust antivirus solution.
Remove BPWS ransomware virus and decrypt or repair your data
The instructions provided below explain how to remove BPWS ransomware virus along other malware that was potentially dropped on your computer. You can use antivirus software of your choice, although our team relies on INTEGO Antivirus. In addition, we recommend downloading RESTORO for fixing virus damage on Windows OS files.
After removing the malware, we strongly recommend changing all of your passwords. The described ransomware is known to travel along various information-stealing Trojans, so deleting them and taking action to protect data that could possible be stolen is a vital step.
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BPWS Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove BPWS Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube.
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- First of all, turn off your PC. Then press the Power button to start it again and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. This launches the Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Use arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate down to Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Open Windows Start menu, then press down the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then select Restart option.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. In this case, it is the F5 key.
Step 2. Remove files associated with the virus
Now, you can search for and remove BPWS Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.
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Method 2. Use System Restore
In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically.
Step 1. Boot Windows in Safe Mode with Command Prompt
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- Shut down your PC. Start it again by pressing the Power button and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. You will see Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Using arrow keys on the keyboard, navigate down to Safe Mode with Command Prompt option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Launch Windows Start menu, then click the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then choose Restart option with the mouse cursor.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt. In this case, press F6 key.
Step 2. Start System Restore process
- Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
- Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter. Or you can just type %systemroot%system32restorerstrui.exe in command prompt and hit Enter.
- This launches System Restore window. Click Next and then choose a System Restore point created in the past. Choose one that was created before ransomware infection.
- Click Yes to begin the system restoration process.
After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won't be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.
Alternative software recommendations
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Decrypt BPWS files
Fix and open large BPWS files easily:
It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.
- Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
- Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the BPWS extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
- In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
- Try opening the file.
STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide
STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. BPWS Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie.
Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible.
In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt BPWS files, follow the given tutorial.
- Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
- Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
- Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
- In UAC window, click Yes.
- Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
- The tool will automatically include C:// disk as a location to decrypt. The file recovery tool will prepopulate the locations to scan, including connected data storage drives or network drives. Click Add folder if you wish to add additional locations.
In Options tab, you can choose to keep encrypted file copies. We recommend leaving this option selected, especially if you do not know if the decryption tool will work. - Click Decrypt to start restoring BPWS files. You will see the progress in the Results tab. Here, you can see messages from the tool, such as whether the decryption procedure is successful, or you need to wait for an update.
You might also be informed that online key was used to encrypt your files. In such case, the decryption tool won't work for you, and the only way to recover your files is to use a data backup.
Meanings of decryptor's messages
The BPWS decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages:
Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID]
This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor's database.
No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]
Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible
This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible.
Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]
This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.
If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn't available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your BPWS extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.
Report Internet crime to legal departments
Victims of BPWS Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:
- In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.
- In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.
- In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.
- In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.
- In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.
- In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.
- In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
- In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.
If you can't find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up "[your country name] report cyber crime". This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities.
Another recommendation is to contact your country's or region’s federal police or communications authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can only open BPWS files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.
To figure out whether you were affected by offline encryption, please go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and see if the string inside of it ends in t1. You can also try using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP/DJVU.
Please follow the guidances provided by the official BPWS decryption tools and believe what they say. If they say it is impossible to decrypt, it really is so. There is no magic tool or human capable of decrypting your files hiding somewhere. Encryption is a technique created to be nearly impossible to decrypt without a special private key (held by the criminals).
We advise scanning with anti-virus, anti-malware, malware removal tools or software like RESTORO to eliminate virus damage on the system. If you do not trust using a single tool, try running one after another. However, we do not recommend keeping several security programs on a computer at once as they can interfere with each other's work.
Beware of fake BPWS decryption tools circulating around the web. Cyber criminals are uploading them to various shady websites, also might be promoting them via suspicious Youtube videos. These programs can infect your computer even more heavily (Trojans, miners, etc.). We suggest being extremely cautious around the web. If there will be an official STOP/DJVU decryption tool available, it will be widely discussed in public media.
Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.
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