Remove MKOS Ransomware Virus (2023 Guide)

MKOS ransomware removes access to your own files by encrypting them

MKOS is a ransomware virus that originates from the STOP/DJVU ransomware family. The virus aims to encrypt all files on the target system to prevent the victim from accessing them. During the cyberattack, the ransomware appends a .mkos file extension to original filenames, then leaves _readme.txt files in every folder. This malicious virus is also known to be installing password-stealing Trojan, namely Azorult.

MKOS file virus brings a message from its developers in _readme.txt ransom note. They inform that all files like photos, databases, documents and other important files were encrypted with the strongest encryption and unique key. The attackers suggest buying the decryption software, which costs $490 if paid within 72 hours, or $980 if later. The ransom should be paid in Bitcoin cryptocurrency, as it helps to keep the attackers’ anonymous.

The hackers also suggest decrypting one file for free. They recommend sending a small file that doesn’t contain any valuable information to one of the provided emails – datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or datahelp@iran.ir.

The note also contains a personal ID. Now, some sources will recommend checking the end of this key to find out whether files were encrypted with an online or offline key.

What you actually need to do is go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and check the IDs here. If one of them has a “t1” ending, you have chances to decrypt at least part of .mkos extension files for free (in the future).

Threat Summary

Name	MKOS ransomware virus
Type	Ransomware (STOP/DJVU variant)
Encryption type	RSA
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom amount	$490 within 3 days or $980 later on
File marker	.mkos file extension
Decryption tools	STOP Decrypter (doesn’t support this extension at the moment; will only decrypt OFFLINE KEY data)
Distribution	Malicious online files, such as keygens, software cracks, other illegal software activation tools
Removal	Remove using free instructions given below the article

At the moment, there are no ways to recover files for free. The MKOS ransomware deletes any means of data restoration, including system restore points. Some versions of this virus can install Azorult Trojan on the system, which is made to transmit all your private login details to the attackers. Therefore, we suggest you take immediate action to eliminate the virus from your system.

For a successful MKOS ransomware removal, you need to reboot your computer in Safe Mode and eliminate the threat from this environment. We have provided free instructions at the end of this article to assist you.

How to decrypt .mkos files?

MKOS ransomware is a new version of DJVU, which means that it has no flaws in its encryption procedure. Therefore, there are no ways to break the encryption or obtain the decryption keys from the criminals’ server. The only hope to restore some files for free is in a case if the virus used an OFFLINE key to encrypt your files.

• When executed on the victim’s machine, STOP/DJVU variants attempt to connect with Command&Control server, and if it manages to do so, it obtains so-called online encryption keys from there. These keys are different for each victim. In case the connection fails, the virus uses offline key instead.
• The offline key is the same for all versions of this ransomware, and therefore it is possible to get access to it (it takes some time for security researchers to get their hands on it, however).
• To find out whether your files were subject to offline encryption, one of the keys in C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt file must end in t1.

Please learn more about MKOS decryption opportunities in this guide on using STOP decrypter by Emsisoft.

Ways to avoid ransomware attacks

Ransomware is an ever-evolving threat, and STOP/DJVU ransomware, including recent versions such as MKOS, NBES, MERL, RIGH and others, is the most prevalent file-encrypting malware of 2019. This particular malware is transmitted via illegal downloads, such as software cracks, keygens, and other tools used to crack paid software to use its premium features for free.

Besides, if you ever consider searching for such untrustworthy downloads, you might run into ads shown below, suggesting you to install some suspicious spyware (adware, browser hijackers, etc.).

However, other ransomware families proliferate through other channels, such as malicious spam, infected websites, or hacked RDP ports. We suggest reading this guide on ways to protect against ransomware attacks to learn what actions you can take.

Remove MKOS ransomware virus instantly

The easiest way to remove MKOS ransomware virus is to delete it via Safe Mode on your Windows PC. You can use the instructions provided below to eliminate the virus using any free or paid antivirus (you can check software reviews on our site).

Right after MKOS virus removal, try to find any backups you have to restore at least part of your data. It is important to know that files encrypted by the online key cannot be restored in any way at the moment (except paying the attackers, which we do not recommend doing).

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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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.