Remove KIOP Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .kiop FILES)

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

KIOP ransomware strikes unprotected computers, encrypts all files in them

Contents

KIOP ransomware strikes unprotected computers, encrypts all files in them
Ransomware distribution tricks to be wary of
Remove KIOP ransomware virus and recover your data
Decrypt KIOP files
Frequently Asked Questions

KIOP is a ransomware-type computer virus originating from the STOP/DJVU ransomware strain. It is one of the most dangerous file-encrypting viruses nowadays, which is designed to lock personal files, leaving no way to access them. The virus marks each encrypted file with .kiop extension to make it distinguishable and apparent that the malware altered it. Additionally, the virus drops _readme.txt ransom notes that inform the computer user about the cyber attack and provide instructions on recovering encrypted data.

To illustrate how this malware renames files, see the following example: files originally named 1.jpg, 2.docx and 3.rar will appear as 1.jpg.kiop, 2.docx.kiop, 3.rar.kiop.

Contents of the ransom note

The operators of this ransomware seek to extort affected computer users after making important files unreachable. The ransom note (_readme.txt) they provided suggests that the only way to decrypt .kiop files lies in the hands of the ransomware operators, who offer to sell the decryption tools for either 980 or 490 USD.

The note explains that the victim can pay less for the decryption tools if one contacts the criminals within 72 hours of getting infected. Otherwise, the victim has to pay the full amount, which is 980 USD. The criminals will later clarify that the payment can only be made via cryptocurrency since they see it as a fast, secure, and anonymous way of making transactions.

The ransom note includes two email addresses – support@freshmail.top or datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. The crooks also advise sending them one encrypted file for free decryption to get a “guarantee” that criminals can restore the rest of the data.

If you’ve been affected by this notorious ransomware, we strongly recommend refusing to pay a ransom. Money is what fuels the ransomware business and keeps the cybercriminals motivated – besides, paying up does not guarantee data recovery, anyway. There is a high chance that you will be left out with your encrypted files after making the transaction to criminals, and no decryption tools will be provided to you.

On top of that, criminals might start demanding more money from you. In other words, paying a ransom hardly solves the issue. In addition, you shouldn’t count on third-party scammers who lie that they can restore your files. Usually, they pay the cybercriminals and take additional fees for their services, although this also doesn’t guarantee data recovery.

Ransomware damage overview

Once KIOP ransomware infects a computer, there are several tasks it runs. This usually includes deleting Volume Shadow Copies, disabling security programs, meddling with Windows system files and settings, and dropping more malware.

To be specific, STOP/DJVU ransomware samples usually spread Vidar, RedLine, and AZORult Trojans, all of them being highly dangerous Remote Access Trojans (RATs) that are known to be used as information stealers. These Trojans can silently extract saved passwords, credit card details, file lists, app information, chats, cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history, and cookies and send them to cybercriminals. Once this is complete, the criminals can then carry out additional attacks, hack your accounts, extort you, or even cause financial damage.

The main task of the ransomware is to encrypt all files and drop ransom-demanding notes, so it does that immediately after preparing for the attack. It attempts to request a unique encryption key from its server, but if this fails, it reverts to offline encryption mode. Then it starts encrypting files in all folders, bypassing only those that are required for the operating system to function. The ransomware also drops a copy of _readme.txt in each scanned folder.

It is important to remove KIOP ransomware as soon as you notice its presence on your computer. The best approach to dealing with severe malware like this is booting the system in Safe Mode with Networking and starting your antivirus solution from there.

Considering that your computer was infected, we assume that you didn’t have a reliable antivirus with real-time protection enabled. In such cases, we recommend using software like INTEGO Antivirus, which has an excellent malware detection rate and real-time protection feature, among other useful functionalities. Additionally, you can download RESTORO and use it to repair virus damage on Windows system files and registry.

Ransomware Summary

Name	KIOP Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD, JYPO (find full list here)
Version	682nd
Extension	.kiop
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 .kiop 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).

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

75% OFF!

Ransomware distribution tricks to be wary of

Ransomware viruses like KIOP are distributed via email attachments, fake software cracks, torrents, deceptive ads, and sometimes exploits.

The majority of STOP/DJVU samples are distributed via phony software crack websites that promote popular software downloads, claiming to provide complete and working premium versions for free. Computer users who fall for this bait infect their computers after running the alleged setup.exe file, which is basically a malware launcher.

The deceptive websites promoting these downloads can be encountered in online search engine results after looking up software cracks or via other websites that redirect users to such domains. In order to avoid getting infected, users should avoid such illegal ways of obtaining software and, instead, visit legitimate websites that provide genuine copies of computer programs and games.

Another prevalent trick to infect computer users with ransomware is using phishing emails with malicious attachments. Cybercriminals can take on many personas, for example, as online retailers, services, government facilities, universities, or banking institutions. They usually address the recipient regarding an allegedly important matter and urge them to open attached files, claiming there is some important information that the recipient needs to see. Unfortunately, these attachments contain malicious code that gets executed as soon as the victim opens the file or clicks something inside of it.

Computer users should be careful when checking their email inboxes and avoid opening attachments or links sent by unsolicited or suspicious senders. Some of the tell-tale signs showing malevolent intentions of the sender are grammar or spelling mistakes, a generic greeting line that doesn’t include the recipient’s full name, and an urgent message tone. It is also worth checking the sender’s email address, although cybercriminals manage to spoof it to make it appear like a legitimate email address belonging to a specific company or organization.

In order to avoid getting infected, computer users should stay away from suspicious websites and aggressive online ads suggesting to install something on their computers. In addition, to avoid getting targeted through software vulnerabilities, it is important to keep all programs as well as operating systems up-to-date and protect the computer with an antivirus solution that has real-time protection feature.

Remove KIOP ransomware virus and recover your data

If you’ve been affected by the described computer threat, it is now time to remove KIOP ransomware virus and other malware from the system. You can find instructions on how to do it yourself below. Make sure you start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking to neutralize malicious processes, and run antivirus software then. If you’re in need of an AV recommendation, our team advises using INTEGO Antivirus. In addition, download RESTORO to see which virus-affected Windows OS files can be repaired.

To fully restore your files, a data backup is needed. If you do not have it, we recommend using these instructions on how to repair/decrypt files locked by STOP/DJVU. In addition, you should take additional steps to protect your privacy due to RATs dropped on your computer during the ransomware attack. Therefore, after removing all malware from the system, you should change all of your passwords used on the compromised device.

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:

STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY 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.

STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

DOWNLOAD RESTORO

RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically.

RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

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.

KIOP 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 KIOP 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 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 KIOP 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 KIOP files

Fix and open large KIOP 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 KIOP 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. KIOP Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD, JYPO (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, 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 KIOP 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 KIOP 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 KIOP 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 KIOP 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 KIOP 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 .KIOP files?

You can only open KIOP 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 KIOP 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 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 KIOP 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.