Remove ISAL Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .iswr FILES)

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

ISAL ransomware virus and how it affects files on a computer

Contents

ISAL ransomware virus and how it affects files on a computer
- Massive ransom demand in order to decrypt data
- Ransomware Summary
Distribution methods used by cybercriminals
The importance of removing ISAL ransomware virus
Decrypt ISAL files
Frequently Asked Questions

ISAL ransomware is a virus released by the cybercriminal group STOP/DJVU that encrypts files on a victim’s computer at a fast pace, causing irreparable damage to documents, videos, and pictures. It appends the .isal extension to each affected file and leaves a _readme.txt file in each folder, informing the victim of the attack and demanding cooperation. For instance, the way this virus renames data is explained in this example: files named as 1.jpeg or 2.png will automatically get renamed to 1.jpeg.isal and 2.png.isal. It is important to avoid this destructive ransomware at all costs as it is a severe threat to data stored on computers and connected drives.

The motive of those behind the STOP/DJVU ransomware virus is to spread the virus to as many computers as possible so they could have an increased chance of extorting ransom from some of their victims. However, they usually exploit deceptive methods in order to take their victims unawares.

Massive ransom demand in order to decrypt data

The ransom note named _readme.txt contains a warning that all of computer files were encrypted, along with suggestion to restore all files using a ISAL file decryption tool promoted by cybercriminals. They recommend writing an email to provided addresses: support@fishmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.

When victims of ISAL ransomware try to negotiate with cybercriminals in hopes of restoring their encrypted files, they are often asked to pay a ransom fee of $980. Although they may offer to slash the fee by 50% provided the victim can pay within 72 hours.

In principle, the offer reduces the ransom fee to $490, but if for any reason the victim can’t pay it within that stipulated time, they will insist that only the maximum ransom fee will be acceptable from now on. It should be noted that cybercriminals do not accept direct bank payments or money transfers since such methods of payment can be traced to them. So they make it mandatory that cryptocurrency of an equal amount to the ransom fee should be purchased and transferred to their wallet address.

It is not advisable to listen to cybercriminals or obey their commands. There are many reasons why paying a ransom is a wrongful choice:

Paying ransom fees in any guise is generally considered illegal.
Ransom payment encourages criminality by making it profitable for those involved in it.
Funds collected as ransom are used by cybercriminals to expand their operations.
Paying victims are usually targeted again in the future.
Cybercriminals will be forced to stop further attacks if victims refuse to pay a ransom.

It is advisable to remove ISAL ransomware virus using an antivirus software. The guide provided below this article explains how to do it securely while in Safe Mode with Networking. If you’re undecided on which AV brand to use, you may be interested to try INTEGO Antivirus, a robust antivirus solution that we have reviewed on our website. Afterward, you may want to download RESTORO (secure download link) to try and repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

Name	ISAL Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	BGJS, BGZQ, QEPI, QEHU (find full list here)
Version	620th
Extension	.isal
Cybercriminal emails	support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult or Vidar Trojan
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .isal 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).

Intego Antivirus for Windows

Award-winning antivirus solution for your PC.

Robust security software that provides robust 24/7 real-time protection, Web Shield that stops online threats/malicious downloads, and Prevention engine that wards off Zero-Day threats. Keep your PC safe and protected against ransomware, Trojans, viruses, spyware and other forms of dangerous programs.

GET IT NOW

60% OFF!

Distribution methods used by cybercriminals

Just like other cybercriminals, those behind STOP/DJVU malware variants, including ISAL virus, often deploy several deceptive methods in their desperate attempts to infect as many computers as possible. The main ways they try to coerce targets to download malware to their computers is either by providing deceptive files to download online, or by sending email spam that contains malicious attachments.

Illegal online downloads

Online downloads are one of the most popular methods used by cybercriminals in distributing ransomware. An important point to note is that cybercriminals have one primary motive, and that is to extort money from their victims. So, when they upload cloned software versions to various online mediums, such as crack websites or torrent listings, have it in mind, they’re using it as bait. Even though such cloned versions may appear like a cheap and readily available alternative, please do not download them. It’s also a criminal act to replicate other people’s products without authorization massively. Therefore, instead of making use of online torrent platforms, software users should pay the necessary fees and download any software of their choice legitimately.

Potentially dangerous downloads can also be brought to computer systems via peer-to-peer file sharing networks that enable cybercriminals to distribute cloned and malware-infested software content to many users. To maximize their chances, cybercriminals usually target popular software contents that are in high demand. However, all these pirated software versions should be avoided because they’re not safe and can trigger ransomware virus attacks. Some of the popular software names often used as a bait by cybercriminals are Adobe Illustrator, HP/Epson Printer Drivers, MS Office 365, Adobe Photoshop, and others.

Use of emails and attachments

Unlike the previously discussed malware distribution method, the use of emails with attachments is slightly different in nature. In this method, cybercriminals don’t wait for their victims to download illegal malware-carrying software but instead will go on ambush using unsolicited emails. To deceive their victims, they often impersonate globally known brands like DHL, Yahoo, Amazon or eBay, etc.

Also, the accompanying attachments will be given compelling tags like Invoices, Tracking Details, or Order Summaries. Their aim is to get the recipient curious enough to open the attachments so they will inadvertently trigger a ransomware attack. If such a computer lacks reliable antivirus software, RATs can hide for a long while, putting the computer owner at risk.

In some cases, aside from the primary ransomware attack, RATs (Remote Access Trojans) are also unleashed on the infected computer. RATs can be used by cybercriminals to steal very important personal details such as passwords, credit card information, software login credentials or banking details, etc.

Ways to stay on the safe side

We generally advise computer owners to ensure that genuine antivirus software is installed in their computers and also scanned frequently. This proactive measure is crucial because it will help prevent diverse malware from infecting such computers. Other necessary steps that should be taken include ensuring that only genuine software contents are installed in your computer instead of making use of cloned versions. Likewise, emails and attachments from dubious sources should not be opened.

Cybercriminals usually promote pirated software copies and make them readily available for download at little or no cost. They may upload them to online torrent platforms or use P2P sharing networks to distribute them. Whichever method they use should be avoided because such unauthorized channels are illegal, dangerous, and unfair to copyright owners. Another point to note is that against what many software users assume, using cloned software versions is neither cheap nor convenient. Rather, it could lead to severe losses in finances, time, or even abrupt disruption to the work schedule.

The importance of removing ISAL ransomware virus

It is very important for computer users to remove ISAL ransomware virus as soon as it is detected in any computer. This should be done using only genuine antivirus software. For 100% proven effectiveness, we recommend the use of INTEGO Antivirus.

Before we conclude, victims of ransomware virus attacks should also consider taking the following steps:

Genuine antivirus software should be installed immediately.
Passwords that were used on the compromised computer may have become exposed and should be changed without further delay.
Use any available backup to restore damaged files.
Consider reporting the situation to the local police department or relevant authorities.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

Our team recommends removing malware using a professional antivirus software.

REMOVE THREATS WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS

REMOVE & PROTECT WITH INTEGO

Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs.

Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.

Read full review here.

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.

ISAL 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 ISAL 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 ISAL 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.

Special Offer

DOWNLOAD AND SCAN

Compatibility: Microsoft Windows
See Full Review

RESTORO is a unique PC Repair Tool which comes with an in-built Avira scan engine to detect and remove spyware/malware threats and uses a patented technology to repair virus damage. The software can repair damaged, missing or malfunctioning Windows OS files, corrupted DLLs, and more. The free version offers a scan that detects issues. To fix them, license key for the full software version must be purchased.

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

Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

If you're looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek's Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.

Decrypt ISAL files

Fix and open large ISAL 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 ISAL 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. ISAL Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like BGJS, BGZQ, QEPI, QEHU (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 ISAL 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 ISAL 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 ISAL 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 ISAL 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 ISAL 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 .ISAL files?

You can only open ISAL 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 ISAL 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 ISAL 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

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.