Geek's Advice

TOPI ransomware becomes the 200th version of DJVU virus

TOPI ransomware is a computer virus from STOP/DJVU malware group that encrypts files and demands ransom payment. The virus is designed to encrypt files with a public key and hide a private decryption key. During the cyber attack, the malware appends .topi extensions to affected files and drops _readme.txt notes in file folders. The note explains that all files were encrypted and that the only way to restore them is pay a ransom which ranges from $490 to $980. The note says that the victim must contact helpmanager@firemail.cc or helpmanager@iran.ir for further guidance.

The described DJVU ransomware variant tends to bypass security software by pretending to be a software activation tool. As computer users known that these tools are illegal, they tend to ignore antivirus warnings not to open such program. Once launched, the ransomware starts encrypting all files and prevents the victim from opening them again. What is more, TOPI virus installs AZORULT Trojan, a malicious program that steals private information including passwords saved in browsers (Chrome, Firefox, and others).

The ransom note contents

The _readme.txt ransom note greets the victim with not-so-encouraging words “All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.” This, however, is absolutely true. The ransomware indeed uses very strong encryption algorithm and files can be restored only by using the private key held by the attackers. Another way to restore files, of course, is data backup, which the majority of computer users just tend to forget creating.

The note explains that the regular TOPI decryption tool price is $980, but if the victim rushes to collect the required sum of money, buy cryptocurrency and transfer it to the criminals wallets within 3 days, the price decreases by 50%, meaning it will cost $490.

Threat Summary

The encryption procedure and decryption possibilities

Typically, TOPI ransomware virus encrypts files using online key which it obtains from its Command&Control server. Files encrypted with online key can’t be recovered by any third party tools as it is impossible to obtain decryption keys from criminals’ server. Cracking the keys is also out of the question because the keys are different for each victim (and there are thousands of victims worldwide). In addition, breaking one key would take years.

However, sometimes the ransomware fails to establish connection with its C&C server. In such scenario, the virus uses an OFFLINE encryption key, which is hardcoded into the ransomware program itself and is the same for all victims of the same TOPI virus variant. Once someone pays the ransom, the offline decryption key can be used by all offline encryption victims. Therefore, we suggest waiting for updates on STOP decryption guide here.

Software cracks and keygens among the primary distribution tools for STOP/DJVU variants

TOPI ransomware, just like its replicas NOSU, REHA, REDL, or KODC, are packed along illegal downloads such as KMSPico or other software activation tools for distribution. It is a well-known fact that computer users tend to avoid paying for software licenses and try to download torrents of such files online.

Once downloaded, they search for software cracks or keygens to activate such software illegally. Malware developers know it and prepare the bait for potential victims. As a result, you might install Topi malware alongside Photoshop, MS Office Pack, or some gaming software cracks.

While such downloads are known as the primary distribution vector for DJVU ransomware family, other file-encrypting viruses such as Phobos or Nemty depends on malicious spam or hacked RDP ports.

Remove TOPI ransomware virus easily

You can remove TOPI ransomware virus (the 200th version of DJVU) by using instructions given below. These will explain how to prepare a safe environment on Windows and delete the virus along with Azorult Trojan without any additional risks. We suggest you change all of your passwords straight after that for extra security.

TOPI ransomware removal is the easiest part. Unfortunately, data recovery isn’t. You can restore files using data backup, but our practice shows that the majority of ransomware victims do not create them on a regular basis. As a consequence, they leave themselves with no options but to grieve over lost files in situations like this. Therefore, if you have fallen victim to a ransomware attack, please inform your friends and family about the importance of computer security and data backups to save them from the consequences of similar attacks in the future.

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

REMOVE & PROTECT WITH INTEGO

Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7.. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs.

Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.

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STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

DOWNLOAD RESTORO

RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically.

RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

Read full review here.

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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.

Norbert Webb

Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.