Geek's Advice

NPSK ransomware prevents victim’s from opening their files again

NPSK ransomware is a malicious data-encrypting virus which originates from STOP/DJVU virus family. The virus is designed by cybercriminals to use AES+RSA cryptography on target files and add .npsk extensions to them. The encrypted file icon then changes to blank, and it can no longer be opened no matter what software the victim uses. The ransomware drops _readme.txt ransom notes filled with a money-demanding message from the attacks who request paying $490 within 3 days, or $980 later.

One of the first signs alerting about the NPSK ransomware attack is a fake Windows update prompt, saying “Installing important updates Windows. Getting your update ready.” However, in the background, the encryption procedure takes place. Like that wouldn’t be enough damage to victim’s computer, the virus also installs AZORult malware, a password-stealing menace. Following the data corruption, the virus saves ransom notes all over the computer.

Contents of _readme.txt ransom note explained

The _readme.txt file informs the victim about the attack, stating that NPSK file type data can be recovered only with decryption tool held by the cybercriminals. The decryption is also impossible without the unique decryption key which is also stored on the attackers’ servers and matches the individual victim’s encryption key.

NPSK ransomware developers suggest purchasing the required data decryption tools for $490 if the victim contacts them within 72 hours from the attack timestamp. If, however, the victim thinks whether to pay or not to pay for too long, the ransom price increases to $980.

The note recommends contacting the attackers as soon as possible. For this matter, the note provides two email addresses – the main one and backup one – helpdatarestore@firemail.cc or helpmanager@mail.ch. In addition, the note suggests trying the decryption tool on one encrypted .npsk file. The victim has to send its personal ID and one encrypted file via provided emails, then wait for further instructions on how to make the payment in Bitcoin.

The main way of restoring data is using data backups, although some ransomware victims try using data recovery tools to restore their files. One way or another, the first thing we recommend doing is cleaning the system up. To remove NPSK ransomware virus, consider using instructions provided below the article. An even easier way to delete the threat is by using anti-malware software like System Mechanic Ultimate Defense, which also includes deleted data recovery tool.

Threat Summary

Name	NPSK ransomware
Type	Ransomware
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom price	$490 or $980
Extension	.npsk file extension
Symptoms	Fake Windows update prompt is displayed; the file icons turn into white blank page and get new extensions. The personal data can no longer be opened. There is a ransom note on desktop and other PC locations demanding money. The victim cannot open various websites because the virus alters HOSTS file.
Contact emails	helpdatarestore@firemail.cc or helpmanager@mail.ch
Associated processes	1A3E.TMP.EXE
Decryptable	Yes if encrypted with OFFLINE encryption. See DJVU decryption guide
Distribution	Spreads via deceptive downloads, typically cracks and keygens or tools like KMSPico
Removal	Remove using anti-malware software like System Mechanic Ultimate Defense.

Ransomware modifies hosts file to block access to popular security websites

NPSK virus is a highly complex piece of malware which hardly has any flaws in it. Recently, a security researcher Michael Gillespie announced the ransomware’s capability to edit victim’s HOSTS file, which can be used to block specific websites online. The DJVU variant seems to be blocking the majority of well-known computer-related websites that might provide some useful information to the victim regarding ransomware attacks. This includes PCMag.com, Amazon.com, Topreviews.com and others.

The virus’ developers seem to be seeking to force the victim feel hopeless and convince him to pay the ransom as soon as possible. We, however, do not recommend paying the ransom because by doing so, you would support their malevolent operations.

Data recovery prospects

NPSK ransomware uses military-grade encryption algorithm, and files cannot be restored that easily. Besides, STOP/DJVU variants are categorized into old or new variants. The new variants began appearing in August 2019.

Victims of the older versions can restore their files using STOP decrypter by Emsisoft. Victims of newer versions might be lucky in case their files were locked with offline encryption online. You can read more about it in the article about the decryption tool.

You might also want to try to use data recovery tools to find files deleted by malware.

Update 2020 April: Victims who have their files encrypted with OFFLINE encryption can now decrypt NPSK files using STOP/DJVU DECRYPTION TOOL as explained in this article.

File-encrypting malware awaits in malicious downloads

Downloading suspicious files from the Internet is never a recommended practice. Unfortunately, many ransomware victims tend to ignore such recommendations and continue downloading illegal and highly dangerous pieces of software such as software cracks, keygens, or other cracked copyrighted content. This typically has its own price – a malicious addition.

NPSK ransomware, similarly to other DJVU versions (JOPE, MADO, OPQZ, REMK, FOOP, OOSS) hides in similar downloads which can be downloaded from shady file-sharing sites online. So our recommendation is, avoid clicking on such downloads at all costs. Otherwise, you will end up with a computer full of malware on it, and cleaning it won’t be easy.

Update March 26th. DJVU malware operators might leverage the current global situation regarding coronavirus outbreak. During this time, people are isolated in their homes and as a consequence, might more actively look up for free movies, games or software to download from the Internet. Please be very attentive on what you choose to download and open, because NPSK ransomware might hit your computer and permanently damage your files.

How to remove NPSK ransomware virus easily and restore files

Manual NPSK ransomware removal is quite hard task. Although it is possible, we always recommend using the automatic removal option. It helps to catch all malicious files at once and wipe them out of the system effectively. Our recommended software also includes data recovery tool, which can help to restore deleted files.

To remove NPSK ransomware out of the system, use the instructions presented below. These will help to clean your computer system both from the file-encrypting virus and the password-stealing Trojan. Plus, you’ll get rid of any other spyware or malware installed on the system.

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

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.

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