Remove EROP Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .erop FILES)
EROP ransomware targets unprotected computers to encrypt files in them
Contents
EROP ransomware is a new computer virus variant released by the STOP/DJVU ransomware operators. Known for its abilities to encrypt all files on the system and make them inaccessible for the original owner, it is one of the highest cyber threats for computer users today. After encrypting data on the computer, the virus also marks each filename with an additional .erop extension, making locked files distinguishable for the victim. In addition, the virus leaves a message from the attackers in ransom notes saved in several folders. These notes are named as _readme.txt.
To illustrate how encrypted files are renamed, see the following example: files originally named as 1.jpg, 2.docx, 3.xls will appear as 1.jpg.erop, 2.docx.erop and 3.xls.erop. Following the encryption, they will become impossible to open.
The ransom note urges to contact the criminals within 3 days
The ransom note provided by the malware is stored in _readme.txt file, and during the computer attack, copies of it are saved in various folders. The ransomware operators want to make sure the victim notices these notes. In them, a message tells the victim that all data has been encrypted with the “strongest” algorithm and private key, and in order to decrypt .erop files, the threat actors are asking to pay a ransom ranging between $490-$980.
The note explains that the lower price point, which is $490, applies to victims who will make effort to contact the criminals within 72 hours. The rest will have to pay $980. Although this isn’t mentioned in the ransom note and instead explained later via communications via email, the criminals demand purchasing cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin worth the settled amount and transferring it to their virtual wallet address. Such transactions are more or less anonymous, and this prevents law enforcement agencies from identifying the perpetrators.
The only way to contact the ransomware operators is to write them an email. The _readme.txt note contains two email addresses – support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. The victim can also send a test file for decryption. This is the criminals’ way of proving that they have decryption tools and are ready to provide them after receiving the money from the victim.
Those wondering what to do next should know that paying a ransom is NOT A RECOMMENDED OPTION. First of all, it encourages cybercriminals to continue their activities and provides funds to do so, besides, it doesn’t guarantee data recovery. Moreover, cybercriminals can continue to blackmail you further and even target you in the future attacks as you may be perceived as someone who is willing to comply with cybercriminals’ demands. We highly recommend that you read these further recommendations for ransomware victims released by FBI and NCSC.
Victims affected by this threat should not delay its removal any longer. You can find a guide on how to remove EROP ransomware virus below. Do not forget to start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking before running your antivirus.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | EROP 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 | 641st |
| Extension | .erop |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| Additional malware dropped | Azorult, RedLine or Vidar |
| Damage | The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .erop 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, HP/Epson printer drivers, 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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Methods used to spread ransomware-type viruses
The primary method used for distribution of the STOP/DJVU ransomware variants such as EROP virus is pirated software versions. Cybercriminals prey for computer users who are trying to save money by downloading illegally distributed software copies. In fact, most of the time they use rogue crack websites to promote fake installers that are simply disguised malware launchers. These launchers can also additionally infect the computer with Vidar, Azorult and RedLine Stealers. You can read this guide on how to identify these malicious websites and avoid them. Most importantly, users should avoid pirated content at all costs.
Another typical ransomware distribution method is email spam containing attachments. Cybercriminals can modify regular files such as Word or PDF documents to inject malicious code or use various techniques to hide original file extension to trick the victim into opening a dangerous file. This is why it is important to avoid emails sent by unsolicited senders and always check whether the email comes from a trustworthy source. For example, even if the email address of the sender appears legitimate, it can be spoofed to appear so. In addition, avoid emails that are written in urgent tone asking you to do something, for example, open an URL or email attachment.
Finally, it is important to stay cautious while browsing various Internet pages. If you ever run into some aggressive ads asking you to install a specific program or a software update, do not rush to agree with such suggestions. You may be tricked into downloading spyware or malware without realizing it. Ideally, your computer should be protected with antivirus with real-time scanning feature that could help you identify malicious files and websites before they attempt to harm your computer security and your privacy.
Remove EROP ransomware virus and recover your files
The steps outlined below will help you to remove EROP ransomware virus without hassle. You can also use our software recommendations to ease the removal task for you. From now on, do not forget to create data backups regularly (if you didn’t do this previously) as they can save you from data loss in case of computer error or a malware attack.
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EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
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Decrypt EROP files
Fix and open large EROP 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 EROP 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. EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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 EROP 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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View Comments
I have some healthy files that were on my phone before I copied them to the computer and they were hacked. Can this be useful Retrieving the rest?
Note that my key is online
No, however, you can read this guide on how to repair some data formats affected by STOP/DJVU.