Geek's Advice

NPPP ransomware creators are greedy for money: encrypts data to scare victims

NPPP ransomware is the 210th version of DJVU virus which encrypts files on Windows computer systems. Victims affected by this virus discover that all files now have .nppp file extension and can no longer be opened. What is more, the virus drops _readme.txt notes containing a message from the criminals. The attackers suggest that the only way to decrypt corrupted data is to pay a ransom worth $490 (if paid within 3 days) or $980 (if paid later). They leave two contact emails so that the victim could contact them.

NPPP ransomware encrypts all files discovered on victim’s computer. It searches and affects all types of files, including documents, videos, audio files, images, archives, databases, and even more.

The file-encrypting malware turns data collected for years and years into junk in a few moments. Once the encryption is complete, the virus deletes Volume Shadow Copies and installs Azorult (Trojan that steals private information such as passwords, logins, etc.).

The message from the criminals demands money

The virus drops _readme.txt notes all over the computer. This file contains a threatening message from the attackers, who suggest that all files were encrypted with “the strongest encryption and unique key. The only method of recovering files is to purchase NPPP decrypt tool and unique key for you.“

The attackers suggest decrypting one chosen file for free as a proof of the decryption tool’s functionality. The victim needs to send the personal ID included in the ransom note to the criminals via helpdatarestore@firemail.cc or helpmanager@mail.ch. If there is no response, the victim is advised to check Spam or Junk folders.

In order to protect your file system and private information, remove NPPP ransomware virus as soon as you can. We suggest following the step-by-step guide provided below.

Threat Summary

Name	NPPP ransomware virus
Type	Ransomware
Origins	New STOP/DJVU variant (210th version)
Targeted systems	Windows
Behavior	Encrypts files, leaves money-demanding notes (_readme.txt) and installs password-stealing Trojan called AZORULT
File extension	Uses .nppp extension
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Contact Emails	helpdatarestore@firemail.cc or helpmanager@mail.ch
Ransom demand	$490-$980
Distribution	Distributed via illegal software activation software, such as KMSPico
Decryption tools	Offline key for this variant isn’t known yet. STOP Decryptor currently doesn’t support the 209th ransomware version. Victims affected by online key cannot restore their files at all.
Removal	Remove using antivirus while in Safe Mode (use the guidelines presented below)

Why free decryption is almost impossible

The primary matter for each NPPP file virus’ victim is to figure out a way to decrypt files so that they could go back to their original state. Unfortunately, this STOP DJVU ransomware variant is extremely sophisticated and dangerous.

It is so because its encryption algorithm can be compared to the most secure mechanisms used to lock military-grade secrets. It would take a supercomputer and many years to crack just one encryption/decryption key pair. Therefore victims who were attacked by this virus should check for data backups instead.

However, you must know that NPPP ransomware uses online or offline key to encrypt files. Such encryption methods are described below.

STOP/DJVU encryption routine explained

• ONLINE encryption. The virus successfully connects to its remote server and gets the individual encryption key from there. Each victim gets assigned with individual encryption/decryption keys in criminals’ database. Free decryption is impossible.
• OFFLINE encryption. Such encryption uses an encryption key hidden in the ransomware itself. The offline encryption occurs if the virus fails to connect to its C&C server. Therefore, you can understand that the key is the same for all computers on which the connection to C&C failed.

You can check whether you’re affected by the offline key by going to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt file. If the key ends in t1, you might recover files in the future. Learn more about STOP Decryptor and known offline decryption keys here.

Distributon methods employed by ransomware developers

NPPP file virus, just like BBOO, OOSS, MMNN, MOOL or other DJVU versions, hunt for victims in a very specific way. The creators of the virus hide the malware in software cracks or other illegal paid software activation tools (for example, KMSPico).

We strongly recommend to follow cyber security experts’ advice and avoid ransomware attacks this way:

• Do not open suspicious links online, such as those aggressively promoting various download links, adult games, gambling, and similar sites;
• Never open links or attachments added to suspicious emails;
• Use RDP Gateways and use strong passwords;
• Enable real-time protection anti-malware solution.

Remove NPPP Ransomware Virus

To protect your system, remove NPPP ransomware virus’ remains along with additional malware it dropped on the computer using instructions prepared by our experts. The next step is to restore data using your data backups, if you had them created earlier.

NPPP virus removal guide explains how to start PC in Safe Mode and run antivirus or anti-malware of your choice. It is suggested to do this in secure environment, therefore the malevolent programs cannot interfere with your security software’s functionality.

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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