LLOO Ransomware Virus Is A Threat To All Computers
Contents
LLOO ransomware is a file-encrypting virus that is a menace to all computer users. Recognized as part of the STOP/DJVU crypto-malware family, it is designed to infect all files it comes in contact with which would result in the encryption of all PC-stored data. Afterwards, the ransomware will append .lloo extension to every file. Take, for instance, files that were previously saved as 1.jpg or 2.jpg now appear as 1.jpg.lloo, 2.jpg.lloo and so on. Having infiltrated the computer successfully, the cybercriminals will also release a ransom note known as _readme.txt, which would explain what was unraveling to the victim. They will claim that a very strong algorithm has been used to encrypt the entire database of the victim as contained in the computer. Therefore, they won’t be able to retrieve the files anymore except they pay certain fees as ransom to the cybercriminals. In return, they would be given a decryption tool.
The release of LLOO ransomware virus by cybercriminals affiliated to STOP/DJVU ransomware group has become a major cause for concern to all computer users across the globe. Based on their reputation as a network of cybercriminals encrypting files of random computer users with the aim of extorting ransom from them, variants of this ransomware strain should be avoided at all costs. From preliminary reports gotten so far, the virus will be embedded alongside cloned software contents or email attachments, and would become triggered once opened by the unsuspecting users in their computers.
What’s explained in the ransom note
Such unexpected development often comes as a rude shock to victims, but reality would dawn on them when it becomes obvious they can’t have access to their files anymore. Moreover, the ransom note created by the virus will provide futher explanation of what has happened to the computer-stored files.
The cybercriminals would also drop two email addresses, namely: support@bestyourmail.ch and supportsys@airmail.cc. The purpose of releasing the two emails is to provide a means through which the victim could reach out to them. If the victim decides to send them an email, they would respond with their terms and conditions for payment of ransom. Although they would put the ransom fee at $980 but will equally state that half of the amount i.e. $490 would be acceptable provided the victim is able to pay it within a maximum of 72 hours or 3 days after being notified to do so. Once the stipulated timeframe expires and the victim wasn’t able to pay, they will revert to $980 as a fixed ransom fee.
To complicate the situation even further, they would demand that ransom must be paid by buying cryptocurrency that is worth the amount and transferring same to a wallet address that they would provide. The obvious reason they insist on using anonymous payment platforms such as cryptocurrency is to protect their identity and avoid being tracked and arrested by law enforcement agents.
To assure the victim of their capability in ensuring their files are restored, they may request for excerpts of the encrypted files to be emailed to them for sample decryption. However, they will equally add that the result won’t be returned if they believe the content could be of value to the victim.
Regardless of the pressure the victim might be facing, the FBI and other top security organizations have unanimously advocated that victims shouldn’t cooperate with cybercriminals and neither should they pay ransom. There reasons for saying so are listed below:
- There is no guarantee that encrypted files would be recovered even after ransom payment
- Paying ransom is an endorsement to cybercrimes because the perpetrators would find it profitable.
- More funds in control of cybercriminals would make it possible for them to increase their capacity, thereby putting more people at risk.
- Victims that pay ransom are often targeting again in the future.
More details regarding the attack
Although the rogues behind these STOP/DJVU ransomware virus series target computer users globally, there are selected countries they exempted. The countries are situated in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. They include Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Armenia, Tajikistan, Kazachstan and Uzbekistan. The first thing the virus does after infecting a computer is to determine its geo-location. This is done by accessing https[:]//api.2ip.ua/geo.json and afterwards it would send the details to geo.json where it would be processed and details like zip code, IP address, city, country, and longitude/latitude extracted. If the information indicates that the location is in any of the aforementioned countries, it would automatically abort its operation, but if it’s in the contrary, it would proceed to the next stage.
Aside the threat posed by the LLOO ransomware virus, the victim would also be at risk of other harmful Trojans, especially VIDAR and AZORULT. These Remote Access Trojans, otherwise known as RATs are used by the cybercriminals in passively obtaining sensitive information that may include banking details, software login credentials, diverse passwords, cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history etc. Having access to such sensitive information would enable the cybercriminals to commit crimes against the owner.
To avert such dangers, it is advisable to remove LLOO ransomware virus as soon as it is discovered in a computer. The recommended safe way to do this is to set up the computer in Safe Mode with Networking option to hibernate other functions and open up the system for thorough scanning using a genuine antivirus software with proven efficacy. You may also consider the use of RESTORO software (download link) to salvage some of the damaged files wherever possible.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | LLOO Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here) |
| Version | 505th |
| Extension | .lloo |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@bestyourmail.ch and supportsys@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 .lloo 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 | Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.PAL!MTB (Microsoft), Trojan.Crypt (A) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.47850419 (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. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link). |
REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE
Scan your system for FREE to detect security, hardware and stability issues. You can use the scan results and try to remove threats manually, or you can choose to get the full version of software to fix detected issues and repair virus damage to Windows OS system files automatically. Includes Avira spyware/malware detection & removal engine.
Files encrypted by this ransomware can be recognized from new extensions appended to their original full names. See the screenshot below to better understand the principle of file-marking.
How to ensure that STOP/DJVU ransomware does not infect your computer
There are two major ways through which cybercriminals distribute ransomware include online torrent platforms and email attachments. In the former, they would clone popular software contents and embed them with malware before uploading same to online torrent platforms. When any computer user who does not want to obtain such software legally (maybe because they don’t want to pay the fees attached to them) downloads them from these dubious sites, they end up triggering a ransomware attack.
From our record, we have observed that cybercriminals typically target software contents that are in high demand so they can use it as bait to get as many victims as possible. Listed below, in no particular order, are some of the popular software copies often cloned by cybercriminals:
- AutoCad;
- Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop/Premiere Pro;
- Cubase;
- Corel Draw;
- League of Legends;
- Tenorshare 4ukey;
- VMware Workstation;
- Internet Download Manager.
The other method used by cybercriminals in distributing ransomware is email attachments. In this method, they would embed malware on attachments created on files like XLS, PDF or DOCX among other similar ones. They make use of such files because they enable macro functions like embedding and triggering of malware. You should be on the lookout and avoid opening emails or attachments that have spoofed address or its purpose can’t be explained at first glance.
Victims of STOP/DJVU ransomware are also advised to stay away from any online website that claims to offer decryption services. Experience so far has shown that they’re mostly fraudulent. However, only two brands (DiskTuna and Emsisoft) have proven to be effective with measurable successes.
Remove LLOO Ransomware Virus & Restore Files
The importance of initiating LLOO ransomware removal can’t be overemphasized, and the recommended way to do so is by putting the system on Safe Mode with Networking option before making use of genuine antivirus. The following steps should be taken as well once you’ve ascertained that the computer is now virus-free:
- Modify all passwords that were previously used on the compromised computer.
- Get in touch with the local police and explain the situation to them.
- Look for any available backup device to restore lost files.
- Learn everything you could on the possible ways of repairing files damaged by STOP/DJVU ransomware.
- Lastly, it is best to stay safe by avoiding any online activity that could expose your computer to virus infection.
To repair virus-damaged Windows OS components, you may want to download RESTORO (see its review here) after you remove LLOO virus using a robust antivirus tool.
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
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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LLOO 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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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
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
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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 LLOO files
Fix and open large LLOO 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 LLOO 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. LLOO Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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 LLOO 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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