Remove TYOS Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .tyos FILES)

remove TYOS ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .tyos extension (free guide)

TYOS ransomware: a file-encrypting menace to computer users

Contents

TYOS ransomware: a file-encrypting menace to computer users
Distribution methods used to spread STOP/DJVU versions
Remove TYOS ransomware virus and protect your computer
Decrypt TYOS files
Frequently Asked Questions

TYOS ransomware is a malicious computer virus that aims to encrypt all files on the system and make them inaccessible. It comes from an infamous ransomware family known as STOP/DJVU, and it uses .tyos extension to mark encrypted files. The malware also creates money-demanding notes in each folder, naming them as _readme.txt. The cybercriminals demand paying a ransom to them in exchange for data decryption tools.

To illustrate how encrypted files look like, see this example: files named 1.pdf, 2.docx, or 3.jpg are renamed to 1.pdf.tyos, 2.docx.tyos, and 3.jpg.tyos, and the same happens with all data on the computer.

Ransomware uses encryption to secure data maliciously. While encryption is usually used to protect information confidentiality while it is stored on computer systems and networks or transmitted via the Internet, cybercriminals put it to bad use and make the files unavailable for the victim.

The message in the ransom note explained

The ransom note created by TYOS virus contains instructions for the victim on restoring encrypted data. It briefly mentions the robustness of the encryption algorithm used and states that there is no way to restore files other than purchasing a decryption tool and a unique key from them.

The note instructs the victim to write an email to a provided email address: support@freshmail.top, and if no response is received, shoot another message to an extra email address, which is datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. According to the perpetrators, the victim can attach one encrypted file for test decryption. This way, they are trying to provide some guarantee for the victim.

In addition, the note explains that the regular price of the decryption tools, or, in other words, the ransom amount is $980. However, they promise a 50% discount for those who contact the criminals within 72 hours of being infected. Victims who comply with this rule can pay $490 instead of the full amount. Although this isn’t mentioned in the ransom note, during email communications, the criminals ask to purchase cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin worth the settled amount and transfer it to their virtual wallet. Such transaction type prevents law enforcement from tracking the perpetrators down.

No matter what the crooks promise, it is not recommended to pay a ransom. It is simply not a good choice because it still doesn’t guarantee data recovery, and it provides funds for cybercriminals to continue their operations. In addition, they can start demanding more money after the first transaction is made. The only way to end ransomware attacks is to stop paying up.

More details about this ransomware

TYOS ransomware is a variant of STOP/DJVU ransomware, and this malware uses an online/offline key encryption routine to lock users’ files. It is important to understand the encryption type because you might find out that there is a hope to decrypt .tyos files one day.

After being launched on the target system, this ransomware variant attempts to establish a connection with its Command&Control server and request an online key to encrypt the victim’s files. If this happens, the victim’s files will be locked with a unique key, which means that the changes to restore data without having a data backup are close to zero.

However, if the aforementioned server is down at the moment of the request or if the victim’s computer has an unstable Internet connection, the ransomware switches to offline encryption mode and uses a key stored in its malicious code instead. To put it simply, all victimized computers affected by offline key encryption are affected by the same encryption key, which means that the data can be decrypted using the same decryption key. If someone with offline encryption receives the decryption key from the criminals and shares it with Emsisoft’s researchers, it gets uploaded to the decryption tool.

Now that we have overviewed the ransomware’s encryption routine, let’s discuss the additional damage this threat inflicts on the computer. Besides removing the victim’s access to one’s files, the ransomware infects the system with information-stealing Trojans – RedLine, Vidar, and AZORult.

To sum up the functionalities of these Remote Access Trojans (RATs), they are capable of stealing a variety of valuable data from the computer, including saved passwords, cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history and cookies, credit card details, Steam, Telegram data, and Discord tokens and more. In addition, they can also be used to download additional malware on the already compromised computer.

The ransomware also alters the Windows HOSTS file to add a list of websites that publish information for ransomware victims, self-help guides, data decryption solutions, cybersecurity advice, etc. Afterward, the compromised computer user’s attempts to visit one of the blocked domains might trigger errors such as DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN.

It is important to remove TYOS ransomware virus remains and the information-stealing malware from your computer as soon as you can. You can do this yourself, but make sure to check the instructions provided by our team first. We recommend using a trustworthy antivirus solution to detect malware automatically, and our top pick at the moment is INTEGO Antivirus. In addition, you can download RESTORO and try its functionality of repairing virus-damaged Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

Name	TYOS Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	JYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (find full list here)
Version	673rd
Extension	.tyos
Cybercriminal emails	support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult, RedLine or Vidar
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .tyos extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online.
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490-$980 in Bitcoin
Distribution	Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico.
Known software cracks to contain this malware	Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends.
Detection names	Trojan:Win32/Azorult.FW!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal
Removal	Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link).

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Distribution methods used to spread STOP/DJVU versions

STOP/DJVU ransomware operators typically use two main methods to spread TYOS virus: via fake software cracks and malicious email attachments. These two methods are commonly used by the majority of other ransomware operators as well.

Cybercriminals often use rogue websites to serve fake downloads, specifically fake software cracks and keygens. These websites often appear in search engine results. Computer users who tend to look up such downloads online are at great risk of getting infected.

Typically, such websites advertise themselves as sources of popular software downloads, offering paid software versions for free. Unfortunately, this is only used as bait to trick the victim into running a malicious file that launches a set of malware on a computer.

Victims of previous STOP/DJVU variants have reported getting infected after launching a fake installer for programs like Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, FIFA, Tenorshare 4ukey, and others. It is advisable to stay away from cracked software at all costs. Computer users should download genuine software versions only. These can be found on official or trustworthy websites.

Another method used by ransomware distributors is malicious email spam. The criminals attach some files to such emails and urge the recipient to review them, claiming there is some important information that needs to be reviewed immediately. The attachments usually come in Microsoft Word, OneNote, PDF, or other file types and are named invoices, waybills, order summaries, etc.

It is important to stay attentive when checking email inboxes and stay away from messages marked as spam. However, some phishing emails can pass email service provider’s spam filters, so users should always carefully inspect the sender’s email address, and check for other warning signs such as grammar/spelling mistakes in the message or subject, overly generic greeting line or urgent tone rushing the recipient to take action (click on a provided URL or open attached file).

Remove TYOS ransomware virus and protect your computer

Computer users who have fallen victim to the described ransomware and have found their files with .tyos extension should use the instructions provided below to get rid of malware residing on their computers. To remove TYOS ransomware virus and detect other threats, a trustworthy antivirus must be used. Manual removal can be completed by extremely experienced users only that have knowledge about malware and its components.

We strongly recommend implementing TYOS virus removal in Safe Mode with Networking using a chosen antivirus. Our team recommends using INTEGO Antivirus, or you can use another AV brand that you like. Afterward, you can download RESTORO to identify virus damage on the Windows system and repair it.

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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:

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TYOS Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove TYOS Ransomware Virus 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 TYOS Ransomware Virus 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. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.

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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.

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Decrypt TYOS files

Fix and open large TYOS 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 TYOS 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. TYOS Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like JYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (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 TYOS 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 TYOS 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 TYOS 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 TYOS 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 TYOS Ransomware Virus 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

✓ How can I open .TYOS files?

You can only open TYOS files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

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.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official TYOS 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).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

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.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake TYOS 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.

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.