Remove MOBA Ransomware Virus (.moba File Virus Decryption Guide)
MOBA virus is another attack by STOP/DJVU ransomware family
Contents
MOBA ransomware is a new version of the infamous STOP/DJVU file-encrypting virus family. It is the latest attack out of 237 available viruses currently lurking in the cyberspace. The main goal of this ransomware is to encrypt the most widely used files on the computer and mark them with .moba extension. For example, if your file name is image.jpg, this cyber threat appends the extension and the encrypted file appears as image.jpg.moba on the computer. Attackers leave a ransom message in _readme.txt format and ask to reach them via helpmanager@mail.ch and restoremanager@airmail.cc e-mail addresses.
Just like any other variant by this ransomware family, MOBA file-encrypting virus enters the system by taking advantage of lack of tech knowledge by regular computer users. It is also programmed to stay in a stealth mode. In other words, once infiltrated, this virus imitates a common Windows Update screen to trick people into thinking that their systems are not infected. However, during that time the encryption process is progressing and targeting files on the affected computer. Experts note that ransomware targets all data on the system, including important documents, videos, audio memos, photos, etc.
Once the encryption is complete, cybercriminals leave _readme.txt ransom note to offer the MOBA decryption tool. It is a unique software that is capable to decrypt the affected files and restore them to normal. Note that the decryption key cannot be duplicated and is completely individual. Attackers ask to pay $490 for the decryptor within the first 72 hours of the infection.
Afterward, the price doubles to $980 that is demanded to be transferred to a specific Bitcoin account to avoid traceability. Unfortunately, our experience shows that trusting cyber criminals does not help but might cause even more damage.
Firstly, MOBA ransomware virus installs the AZORULT password stealer alongside. Even if you would agree to the demands of the attackers, potentially decrypting the files would still leave your system infected with the password-stealing software and continuously transfer your private data to cybercriminals.
Another highly possible scenario is that the attackers would never give you the decryption key after you transferred the demanded amount of money. In fact, it is the most common plot that our readers have encountered during ransomware attacks.
The smartest decision would be to stay away from the cybercriminals and do NOT contact them under any circumstances. You should first install a highly reputable malware removal software to help you remove MOBA virus along with AZORULT. Geek’s Advice team recommends downloading RESTORO to scan for file-encrypting viruses. It is a recommended tool that can quickly identify files related to various infections and automatically get rid of them. Later, it helps users to replace damaged system files and prepare the computer to proceed with encrypted file recovery.
Sum up of the attack
| Name | MOBA ransomware |
| Type | File-encrypting virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Variant | 236th |
| Other versions | VAWE, USAM, TABE, ZIPE, PEZI, NLAH, OONN, NILE, VARI |
| Extension | .moba |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Amount of money demanded | $490 with 50% discount; $980 after 72 hours of the infection |
| Contact e-mail | helpmanager@mail.ch, restoremanager@airmail.cc |
| Distribution | Software cracks and files on P2P sites |
| Symptoms | This virus aims to hide its presence and encrypts all data on the system; Infected files are no longer accessible for regular use |
| Decryption options | Currently, there is no professional decryption tool available; Read STOP/DJVU decryption article for alternative methods |
| Removal | You can only successfully remove the ransomware along with its components with RESTORO |
Summary
Name: MOBA ransomware
Description: MOBA file virus is the latest addition to STOP/DJVU ransomware family. Once executed on the victim's computer, it scans for target files and encrypts them, then marks them using .moba extension. The ransomware then creates ransom-demanding note called _readme.txt.
Offer price: $490-$980
Currency: Bitcoin
Operating System: Windows
Application Category: Ransomware
Author: STOP/DJVU developers
- DAMAGE (5)
- DISTRIBUTION (5)
- ENCRYPTION STRENGTH (5)
Overall
5Moba ransomware attack demonstration is shown below.
Criminals upload ransomware as software cracks on P2P networks
Since many people are attacked to search for software cracks online, cyber criminals took advantage of it and used it to distribute ransomware. In particular, they post the executable files of file-encrypting viruses under the name of well-known software. Usually, regular computer users are not aware of how to test the files they are about to download for infections. Thus, inexperienced computer users infiltrate ransomware on their computers on their own.
There are a few simple steps every computer user should remember to avoid ransomware-type attacks. Firstly, it is essential to always keep an eye on what websites you are browsing. In other words, you should make sure that the pages you are visiting are secure and malware-free. One of the most common indicators is the “Connection is Secure” indicator by a lock icon next to the URL. However, it is not hard to avoid malicious websites — just make sure that you browsing on legitimate and well-known sites.
Furthermore, never get software cracks or any faux applications. If you are installing software, make sure that you are getting one from the official website or at least authorized distributor. All software uploads on peer-to-peer (P2P) networks have an extremely high risk of being posted to trick computer users into downloading ransomware. Finally, you should also refrain from clicking on advertising content online. For example, if you see an ad, we recommend avoiding to click on it since it might also trigger malware installation or redirect to suspicious pages.
Uninstall MOBA ransomware virus safely
As we have already mentioned, this cyber threat has the capability to infiltrate other malicious programs as well. Regular computer users are unable to detect and delete all components and files related to multiple infections. Likewise, the only safe way to remove MOBA ransomware with other cyber threats is to get a robust antivirus. Note that not all malware elimination applications are capable to deal with file-encrypting viruses. However, our recommendation, RESTORO, is a perfect choice to clean your computer.
Unfortunately, MOBA removal might be complicated. This ransomware tends to run a malicious code that blocks access to all security tools, including antivirus. We are more than glad to teach you how to circumvent this virus and run a full system scan with a professional malware removal software. For that, please, check ransomware elimination instructions at the end of this article. Finally, once you clean your computer you can start recovering your files. You can either use the latest backup from the Cloud or read about alternative recovery methods in STOP/DJVU decryption article.
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
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.
MOBA ransomware Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove MOBA ransomware 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 MOBA ransomware 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, which also includes data recovery software. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.
Special Offer
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 MOBA files
Fix and open large MOBA 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 MOBA 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. MOBA ransomware is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (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 MOBA 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 MOBA 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 MOBA 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 MOBA 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 MOBA ransomware 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 MOBA 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 MOBA 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 MOBA 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.
Scott Bolton is a senior content strategist in our Geek’s Advice team. He is exceptionally passionate about covering the latest information technology themes and inspire other team members to follow new innovations. Despite the fact that Scott is an old-timer among the Geeks, he still enjoys writing comprehensive articles about exciting cybersecurity news or quick tutorials.
Recent Posts
Private Internet Access Review 2022: Fast, Secure & Cheap VPN
Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN maintains its long-term role as a leader Private Internet Access…
Remove XCBG Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .xcbg FILES)
XCBG ransomware aims to lock your files and demand a ransom XCBG ransomware is a…
Remove BPQD Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .bpqd FILES)
BPQD ransomware encrypts all computer files, demands a ransom from the user BPQD ransomware is…
Remove KQGS Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .kqgs FILES)
KQGS ransomware is a hostile computer virus designed to encrypt all of your files KQGS…
Remove VTYM Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .vtym FILES)
VTYM ransomware description: a virtual menace to your files stored on the computer VTYM ransomware…
Remove FOPA Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .fopa FILES)
FOPA ransomware is a new threatening computer virus that encrypts your files FOPA ransomware virus…
View Comments
Moba has infected me this morning. Following your instructions, I managed to remove the virus and restore some files (Windows system), but for other files, I used a backup. Thanks for informative guide!