Remove IOTR Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .iotr FILES)

remove IOTR ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .iotr extension (free guide)

IOTR ransomware denies access to files on a computer

Contents

IOTR ransomware denies access to files on a computer
Most popular ransomware distribution methods
Remove IOTR ransomware virus and recover your data
Decrypt IOTR files
Frequently Asked Questions

IOTR file-encrypting computer virus is a malicious software that falls into ransomware category. It is recognized as a new variant released by the infamous STOP/DJVU ransomware operators. Once this malware gains access to a computer system, it immediately starts encrypting personal files and makes them distinguishable by appending .iotr file extensions to original filenames. Additionally, the ransomware delivers a message from cybercriminals by dropping _readme.txt ransom-demanding notes in multiple folders.

This computer threat is aimed at making data on the computer inaccessible to the user, thus blocking access to photos, videos, documents, archives, databases, audio recordings, music and other data types. Once encrypted, data can only be accessed after decrypting it, but the victim has to obtain a private decryption key. This key and the software required to reverse the damage is in possession of cybercriminals. They explain their solution to the situation in ransom notes called _readme.txt.

Contents of the ransom note

The ransom note provided by the malware explains that criminals want the victim to purchase the IOTR file decryption tool for the victim. According to them, the initial price is $980, but in case the victim writes an email to the attackers within 72 hours, they will lower the price to $490. They will demand paying the ransom in cryptocurrency in order to protect their real identities.

The note contains the following email addresses that belong to cybercriminals: support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. In addition, the crooks suggest providing a sample of encrypted file along with Personal ID (included in the ransom note) to them, and promise to decrypt this test file for free. This way, they try to encourage the victim to trust their promises to decrypt all data after payment.

However, trusting cybercriminals is a bad idea. Paying a ransom is not a recommended option, either – it not only does not guarantee data recovery, but increases the risk of being blackmailed further. In addition, money encourages cybercriminals to continue their activities and even enroll more people in these illegal operations. We strongly recommend reading these guidelines and recommendations for ransomware victims by FBI and NCSC.

Additional malware dropped

Besides encrypting victim’s files, STOP/DJVU ransomware is dangerous because it typically launches a set of information-stealing Trojans alongside it. The recognized samples of malware distributed via STOP/DJVU campaigns are Vidar, AZORult and RedLine. All of these are highly dangerous pieces of malware, capable of stealing sensitive information including passwords, card data, browsing history, cookies, information about the infected computer, installed programs and active processes.

Therefore, it is important to remove IOTR ransomware virus along these information-stealing Trojans to prevent cybercriminals from infringing your privacy and encrypting more data. The guidelines provided below this article will guide you through the removal procedure. If you’re in need of a powerful antivirus software, you may want to try one recommended by our experts – INTEGO Antivirus. Once the malware is eradicated from the system, we recommend you to download RESTORO (secure download link) and use it to identify and repair virus damage to Windows system files.

Ransomware Summary

Name	IOTR 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	651st
Extension	.iotr
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 .iotr 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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Most popular ransomware distribution methods

Ransomware-type malware variants like IOTR virus are mainly distributed via highly sophisticated methods, although those designed to attack home computer users are most commonly distributed either via rogue online downloads or malicious email attachments. In general, most victims of STOP/DJVU variants report getting their systems infected after attempts to download a cracked software version via direct online link or via torrent file.

Most of these rogue websites claiming to provide cracked software versions for free can be accessed via online search results, so it is important to learn how to identify them and avoid them. In general, computer users should stay away from non-genuine software versions because they are mostly used as a bait to lure victims into running a wide range of malware on their computers. If you’re in need for a specific program or a game, head to its official website or a trustworthy partner’s website.

The second distribution method that is widely used is email spam containing attachments. The criminals often claim to be someone they’re not, for example, they may introduce themselves as representatives of various companies or governmental entities, and claim that there is an urgent matter that needs to be addressed by the victim. Such emails are often hastily written and contain a lot of grammar mistakes, low-quality logos and overly-generic greeting lines (which indicates that the email sender has no real information about the recipient, not even full name).

The message usually invites the victim to view attached files and reply back as soon as possible. Although the attachments frequently come in Word, PDF, OneNote or XLS formats, do not let this deceive you – these document formats can be injected with malicious code, and opening them can lead to computer infection.

Overall, computer users should avoid browsing through suspicious online websites and be cautious while checking their emails. Additionally, using a robust AV solution, preferably with real-time protection, anti-phishing and anti-ransomware features is simply a must.

Remove IOTR ransomware virus and recover your data

Computer users who have fallen victims to the described malware attack should prepare for a thorough IOTR virus removal. Use guidelines provided by our team to boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking, and then run antivirus solution from there.

Once you remove IOTR ransomware virus, we also recommend changing all of your passwords used on the infected computer, and taking action to secure your bank and other online accounts. Enable 2FA authentication wherever you can.

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IOTR 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 IOTR 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 IOTR 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.

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Decrypt IOTR files

Fix and open large IOTR 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 IOTR 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. IOTR 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 IOTR 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 IOTR 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 IOTR 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 IOTR 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 IOTR 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

✓ How can I open .IOTR files?

You can only open IOTR files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

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.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official IOTR 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).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

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.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake IOTR 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.

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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.