Remove JOPE Ransomware Virus (2021 Decrypt Guide)

JOPE ransomware encrypts files to prevent victim from accessing them

JOPE ransomware is a malicious virus which attacks Windows computers to encrypt all files on them. The virus was first noticed by Norbert Webb. The malware originates from STOP/DJVU family and it operates by encoding all of victim’s personal files with a certain encryption method, thus denying any further access to the files. The encrypted files are left with .JOPE file extension and the victim is usually presented with a _readme.txt ransom note. The virus might also install additional malware, such as AZOrult password stealing virus. To decrypt the corrupted data, cyber criminals demand a ransom which is usually in the range of $490-$980 in Bitcoin.

Moreover, the virus tends to act stealthily, and it usually opens a fake Windows updater seen by the user. Once the ‘update’ is done, your system will be infiltrated with this ransomware, which means basically one thing – data encryption procedure takes place. In order to encode the files, JOPE file virus connects to its C&C (command and control center) to obtain an individual encryption key and saves the identical decryption key on the server. Once this happens, the encryption operation begins, and the ransom note _readme.txt appears in every affected folder.

Is there any way to decrypt the data without paying ransom?

The message displayed in Jope virus ransom note is quite straightforward – either you pay the ransom in Bitcoins, or your files will remain inaccessible permanently, since, as the cyber criminals state, the files are encrypted with military grade encryption. And, unfortunately, that is true – decoding of only one key might take years with a powerful setup. Therefore, the intruders claim that meeting their demands is the only rational option.

However, it is not – you have the choice to restore your files from a backup (if you have it) and/or remove JOPE ransomware from the system completely and to be honest, we highly recommend using the latter and following the instructions we provide. To explain, there is no guarantee that even after you pay the price you will get your files back – in fact, usually the victim who decides to pay up experiences not only significant financial losses, but does not receive back the files as well.

Although statistics show that many users are not doing backups, it is worth mentioning, that there might be a chance to recover your files by using different method. Of course, the chance is slim, but it is worth checking out.

In order to carry out this procedure you need to use our instructions in STOP/DJVU decryption guide and figure out whether your data is encrypted using online or offline measures.

Update March 6h, 2020: At the time of writing, there is no JOPE file decryption solution. Please check back for updates for this particular ransomware variant (offline encryption versions only).

Threat Summary

Name	JOPE ransomware virus
Type	Ransomware
Version	218th version of STOP/DJVU
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom price	$490 or $980
Extension	.jope file extension
Symptoms	The ransomware showcases a faux Windows update window and runs data-encrypting processes in the background. Once complete, files have new extensions and cannot be opened. Various folders now have _readme.txt ransom notes with a message from cybercriminals.
Contact emails	helpdatarestore@firemail.cc (primary email), helpmanager@mail.ch (secondary)
Associated processes	1A3E.TMP.EXE
Distribution	Spreads via illegal file sharing platforms, typically hides in software cracks, movies, or other illegally distributed copyrighted content
Removal	Remove using anti-malware software and try its deleted data recovery tool.

The HOSTS file

JOPE ransomware virus is categorized as a new variation of DJVU which basically means that you’ve been infected by more sophisticated version of the malware. Hence, it might have more capabilities to harm your system i.e. modifying your HOSTS file, adding domain names and IPs to block.

In essence, this virus tends to deny the access to a whole variety of cybersecurity-related  and self-help websites and guides online, which might be helpful to the user. Thus, frustrating him even more.

Infection reasons

JOPE file extension virus typically spreads through careless download practices. This especially applies to people, who tend to download various keygens, cracks and other illegal software. Instead of downloading it from shady websites, we encourage you to support the software developers and use only legitimate ways to obtain the products. This course of action, although may seem expensive at first sight, carries fewer risks and in the long run, you’ll benefit from it, since you won’t have to deal with various malware and issues associated with illegal downloads.

This virus is really similar to other ransomware such as NEMTY, DHARMA or PHOBOS. To evade the issues posed by these kinds of threats altogether, we highly recommend using real-time malware protection software, create data backups on external drives and avoid downloading from untrustworthy websites alongside clicking on suspicious links, ads or attachments.

JOPE ransomware removal guide

If you have any suspicion of having the discussed ransomware, you should initiate JOPE file virus removal from your system immediately. In order to do so, we recommend using credible anti-malware software, especially with in-built optimizer and recovery tool, which might help dealing with these kinds of issues in the future.

After the ransomware removal, you should change the passwords in every website you used them on, since this ransomware might’ve installed password-stealing software on your computer. Keeping your privacy safe from future intrusions should be a priority. To remove JOPE ransomware virus, follow the steps below attentively.

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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