Remove REPL Ransomware Virus (Decrypt .Repl Files)
REPL ransomware employs cryptography algorithm to lock victim’s data
Contents
REPL is a ransomware that is designed to encrypt all data on the computer by using a powerful cryptography algorithm. It employs AES-256 encryption like the majority of viruses from the STOP/DJVU ransomware family and locks it. Victims receive the ransom note in _Readme.txt file where they are encouraged to pay the ransom. They can pay up by writing to the attackers via helpmanager@mail.ch and restoremanager@airmail.cc e-mail addresses. Cybercriminals promise to decrypt files with .repl file extension as soon as they receive the payment. Although, it is rarely the truth.
Ransomware-type infections tend to spread in a form of fraudulent software update pop-up screens or spam electronic letters. This particular variant of a file-encrypting virus uses a disguise while locking victim’s files — it opens a fake Windows update screen to trick people into believing that their computers are not infected. Unfortunately, this deceptive technique helps the virus to encrypt data with AES-256 algorithm and modify Windows hosts file to block the connection to security websites.
In other words, after successful encryption victims cannot open their files or visit security pages online for help. Instead, they are provided with a ransom note that claims that the only way to restore files is to purchase the REPL file decryption tool from the cybercriminals. Attackers demand to get from $490 to $980 depending on the time paid for the software. The decryption key is a unique sequence of characters, numbers, and letters that is completely unique.
Furthermore, the crooks try to gain the victim’s trust by offering to decrypt one file for free as a test. Although, they agree to unlock only one file that does not contain any valuable information. They also include a link to Decrypt Software.avi file on wetransfer.com which is regarded as a video to explain how the decryption tool works. Victims are urged to contact the attackers within 72 hours to get %50 discount from the original decryptor price. If they do not respond within 6 hours, people are advised to check their spam/junk folders.
Virus infiltrates other infections
Note that reaching out for the cybercriminals or clicking on any links included in the ransom note might lead to further damage and financial losses. Experts spotted AZORULT password-stealing Trojan infiltrating the systems together with this dangerous ransomware. In other words, this file-encrypting virus does not only aim to lock all your data for a ransom but also steal valuable information for various other benefits. You should not contact the attackers or click on any provided links if you want to avoid further infections.
Our experts warn people that cybercriminals are not trustworthy people. Likewise, you should remove REPL ransomware virus as soon as you spot any symptoms. You must first boot the system into Safe Mode to circumvent the modified Windows hosts file and then download RESTORO or another highly reputable malware removal tool. Run a full system scan immediately and get rid of the infected files.
Automatic REPL file virus removal is not the final step. You must also delete the modifications in the Windows hosts file and unlock your files. For that, you should learn how to reset Windows hosts file here. Furthermore, the easiest way to restore encrypted data is by using the latest backup copy that is stored in the Cloud. If you do not have one, please read the alternative STOP/DJVU decryption method guide.
Quick Information
| Name | REPL ransomware |
| Type | File-encrypting virus, Cryptomalware |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Version | 240th |
| Other versions | ZIDA, USAM, VAWE, NILE, OONN, VARI |
| Extension | .repl |
| Ransom note | _Readme.txt |
| Malicious process name | 1171.tmp.exe or similar |
| Amount demanded | $490 with 50% discount; $980 for full price |
| Contacts | helpmanager@mail.ch and restoremanager@airmail.cc |
| Damage | Encrypts personal files and makes them unusable. Modifies HOSTS file to prevent victim from accessing computer-related websites. Installs AZORULT password stealer on the system. |
| Spread | Deceptive Adobe Flash Player update pop-ups and spam e-mails, also illegal software activation tools like KMSPICO |
| Decryption | Learn about ways to unlock files |
| Removal | You should install RESTORO to start the safe ransomware damage repair on OS files |
Threat Review
Name: REPL ransomware virus
Description: REPL is a new STOP/DJVU ransomware variant, designed to encrypt all files on the target system. Following a successful attack, the malware installs password-stealing Trojan, modifies HOSTS file and drops _readme.txt ransom note, which explain that .repl extension files can be restored only using a special decryption software and key held by the criminals. To get the key, the cybercriminals advise paying the specified ransom ($490-$980).
Offer price: 490-980
Currency: USD
Operating System: Windows
Application Category: Ransomware
Author: STOP/DJVU authors
- DANGER (5)
- DISTRIBUTION (5)
- ENCRYPTION STRENGTH (5)
Overall
5A live demonstration of REPL file-encrypting procedure is shown below.
Deceptive software updates and spam e-mails remain the primary distribution source
The primary ransomware distribution techniques remain fake Adobe Flash update pop-ups and malicious spam e-mails. These spread methods have been active for years. Yet, they are still capable to trick unsuspecting computer users into downloading ransomware on their own. Likewise, it is essential to understand how these distribution techniques work to avoid file-encrypting viruses.
Usually, people who tend to browse on suspicious pages might appear on a fake landing page where they are warned to update their Adobe Flash Player immediately by pressing the update button on the screen. Note that such malicious pop-up is designed to lure gullible people into downloading cryptomalware infections and you should never click on the update button. Instead, close the window and run a full system scan with a robust antivirus of your choice.
Furthermore, e-mail users should be aware of messages coming from what it might seem at first — well-known and popular brands. Cybercriminals create spam letters that might resemble messages from legitimate companies and append malicious ransomware download links. If people are fooled by the e-mail, they click on the infected link and trigger an automatic installation of a file-encrypting virus.
Therefore, you should be very attentive when clicking on any buttons or opening e-mails. Pay attention to the e-mail address. Maybe it is misspelled or has other errors. If you have a close look to the message or window displaying a warning, you should be able to identify an attempt to infiltrate ransomware. In case you want extra protection, you should always schedule regular scans with an antivirus to protect your system for you.
Uninstall REPL ransomware virus and start decryption process
Firstly, you must remove REPL ransomware virus from your computer along with all files related to it. Since this cyber threat tends to infiltrate other malicious programs, the easiest way to get rid of them all at once is to run an entire system scan with a professional malware removal tool. In addition, we recommend repairing virus damage by running a scan with RESTORO.
Once you are sure that REPL virus removal is complete, you must reset your hosts file to the default. Otherwise, you will not be able to access security websites. Furthermore, start the decryption process by checking if you have backup copies. In case you do not, there are alternative ways how to decrypt unlocked files.
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
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REPL ransomware Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove REPL 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 REPL 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
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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.
Decrypt REPL files
Fix and open large REPL 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 REPL 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. REPL 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 REPL 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 REPL 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 REPL 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 REPL 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 REPL 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 REPL 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 REPL 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 REPL 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.
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View Comments
Thanks, this was really helpful.
I have restored some files using the recommended software. Now trying to repair some using the given instructions on the decrypt guide article. Thank you lots!
This malicious ransomware have attacked my files. What can be done to restore them?