Geek's Advice

MSOP ransomware locks data and demands ransom payment

MSOP ransomware is a malicious ransom-demanding virus which encrypts victim’s personal data using RSA cryptosystem. It is the 188th version of STOP/DJVU ransomware. The virus adds .msop extensions to encrypted data and leaves threatening notes _readme.txt which suggest buying the decryption software for $490 (if paid within 72 hours) or $980. The note also advises contacting criminals via datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or datahelp@iran.ir. In short, this ransomware modifies victim’s personal files using either online or offline key in a way that can’t be reversed without having a private decryption key.

MSOP ransomware spreads via malicious downloads and, once installed, the first thing it does is disable security programs present on the victim’s computer. This allows it to start the system scanning and data encryption process without interruptions. To encrypt the files, the ransomware uses either online or offline key. The virus is developed to target specific file extensions and skip folders that hold files essential for the operating system to function.

During the encryption procedure, the virus also creates a ransom note file and leaves it in every folder containing encrypted data. Finally, the malicious virus installs Azorult Trojan on the system. This Trojan is capable of stealing your passwords (primarily those you have saved in your browser’s memory) and sending them to criminals.

Needless to say, in order to protect your computer, you need to remove MSOP ransomware virus along with other malware immediately. We kindly suggest using instructions provided at the end of this article to learn how to erase malware from your PC easily.

Threat Summary

Name	MSOP file virus
Type	Ransomware (STOP/DJVU virus variant)
Version	v0188
File marker	.msop extension
Encryption method	RSA
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490-$980
Contact emails	datarestorehelp@firemail.cc or datahelp@iran.ir
Distribution	Software cracks, keygens, and other malicious downloads
Installs	Azorult Trojan
Decryption	Impossible at the moment. Only victims of offline key can expect decryption tools in the future
Removal	Remove using trustworthy antivirus software

The ransom note

_readme.txt file left by MSOP virus contains a message from cybercriminals. In fact, the contents of this note haven’t changed much since primary DJVU ransomware versions. The only difference is the contact emails provided in it.

The ransom note says that all victim’s personal files were encrypted, but can be recovered by paying a specified sum of money to the ransomware developers. As explained in the note, the suggested ransom is $980, but the attackers suggest a 50% discount if the victim rushes to pay up within 72 hours.

To encourage the victim to pay a ransom, the note also advises sending one small encrypted .msop extension file to the criminals via one of the provided contact email addresses. As a result, the criminals promise to send back an unencrypted version of it as proof that MSOP decryption tool exists.

However, please keep in mind that security experts advise against paying the ransom. The reasons not to pay it are listed below.

• First and foremost, paying the ransom encourages cybercriminals to push new ransomware versions and infect even more victims further. By paying, you simply fund their operations.
• Paying the ransom isn’t a guarantee that you will recover your files. The criminals might disappear and not provide any decryption means as soon as they receive the money.
• You can invest your money better – for example, buy external data storage devices for future backups which we expect you’ll be creating from now on.

Quick guide on opportunities to decrypt .msop files

If you want to decrypt .msop files, you need to find out how your files were encrypted in the first place. Therefore, here’s how to find out what keys were used for encryption:

1. Go to C: disk, then go to SystemID folder.
2. Here, check for PersonalID.txt file.
3. Open the file and take a look at the ending symbols of personal IDs listed here. If any of these end with t1, it is an indicator that an offline key was used to encrypt your data.

In other words, the ransomware failed to establish a connection with its remote server during the attack. In such case, we recommend checking for updates on this guide on DJVU ransomware decryption. Please note that it takes time to break the offline key, so be patient.

However, if none your personal IDs have t1 at the end of it, your chances to recover files using any third-party decryptors are close to zero. The only hope to access private keys is by catching the ransomware developers, which is also not really possible. Creators of DJVU ransomware seem to be experienced, operate anonymously and know how to hide their traces really well.

STOP ransomware stays loyal to its only distribution vector

STOP/DJVU ransomware such as MSOP, ZOBM, ROTE, TOEC, MOSK and others is typically hidden in illegal downloads such as keygens and cracks. Such downloads are extremely popular – people tend to search for these on the Internet and download via peer-to-peer sharing software.

Unfortunately, attempts to deceive software creators can end up sadly. In other words, better don’t try to activate software licenses for free, or you might end up with a pile of corrupted personal data.

Many people reported installing this ransomware after downloading various photo-editing software or game cracks. So if you are thinking about sending such a file to your computer, think twice whether it is worth risking years of work or personal memories. At the end of the day, this can cause you more financial loss than actually purchasing a legitimate software license.

Remove MSOP ransomware virus easily

We recommend you to remove MSOP ransomware using trustworthy antivirus software of your choice. You can use the antivirus you already have, or download one now. If you don’t have security software yet, consider checking reviews on our site – there is plenty of free or paid products you can choose from. Next, use the instructions provided below to eliminate bot the ransomware and Azorult from the system.

Once the MSOP ransomware removal is complete, focus on two tasks – changing all your passwords and taking actions to restore your files. If you have a backup, simply plug it into your now cleaned computer and start importing files. In case you do not have a backup, wait for the offline key to appear and then use STOP decryptor by Emsisoft. Finally, if data was locked by the online key, we suggest backing up the encrypted data but do not put your hopes too high.

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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