Remove TYPO Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .typo FILES)
TYPO ransomware operators attempt to extort computer users
Contents
TYPO ransomware is a computer virus that intends to encrypt all files the user stores on the host and connected drives. The virus is a variant of STOP/DJVU ransomware, a notorious malware family that has over 670 variants so far. This variant appends .typo extension to encrypted files, making them noticeable to the victim. For example, files named 1.jpg and 2.png are renamed to 1.jpg.typo and 2.png.typo, and the same procedure is applied to all encrypted files. Once this is done, the ransomware drops instructions for the victim in files named _readme.txt. These files are known as ‘ransom notes.’
The main intention of this ransomware is to use encryption to make files on the computer unavailable, restricting access to work, research, study materials, and personal memories as well. The virus may also lock gaming progress, videos, music files, and others.
While encryption is a procedure that converts readable information into a code and is typically used to prevent unauthorized access to it, cybercriminals put it to harmful use. They secure files on the victim’s computer and then try to sell the tools required to restore information for a tremendous amount of money.
What is also important is that this ransomware usually infects the system with additional malware. Our analysis revealed that the malicious files used to carry STOP/DJVU variants also contain information stealers such as Vidar, RedLine, or AZORult. These fall into Remote Access Trojans (RATs) category, which means that cybercriminals can control them remotely and execute various tasks on infected hosts. For example, they can extract passwords, cryptocurrency wallets, credit card details, download and launch more malware, view and delete files and more.
The ransom note overview
Afterward, the malware leaves money-demanding messages in so-called ransom notes. These notes suggest the computer user can only access encrypted data after paying a ransom to cybercriminals. Once they receive the transaction, they promise to provide the TYPO file decryption tool and key.
The criminals instruct the victim to contact them via provided emails within 72 hours: support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. The note suggests that victims who comply with this rule will get a 50% discount on the ransom amount. In such a situation, the victim gets to pay $490 instead of $980.
The cybercriminals also ensure the victim can get a guarantee that files will be recovered after the payment is made. They suggest sending one encrypted file to them as an email attachment. However, they warn not to use files containing valuable information (cybercriminals usually refuse to decrypt spreadsheets, archived files, etc.). The perpetrators do not want to decrypt files that may be very important to the victim, as decrypting such files for free may decrease the likelihood of the victim paying the ransom.
It is important to resist the urge to communicate with cybercriminals and refuse to pay the ransom. It hardly ever results in successful data recovery, besides, money is what fuels the ransomware attacks. Greedy cybercriminals may seem helpful while they’re trying to convince you to make the payment, however, they can disappear after receiving the transaction. Moreover, they may try to extort you further, or try to infect you with different malware next time, because criminals tend to see paying victims as easy targets. We also recommend reading these recommendations for ransomware victims by FBI or NCSC.
If you have been attacked by the described computer virus, we recommend reading removal instructions prepared by our team. You can remove TYPO ransomware virus yourself, you just need to boot your PC in Safe Mode with Networking and run a trustworthy antivirus solution. We highly recommend using INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal. In addition, you can download RESTORO to repair virus-altered Windows OS files.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | TYPO 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 | 672nd |
| Extension | .typo |
| 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 .typo 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). |
Intego Antivirus for Windows
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Ransomware distribution: ways through which file-encrypting viruses spread
Computer viruses including those of ransomware type usually are distributed using deceptive methods – cybercriminals disguise the malicious file as something else or insert it to installers of other untrustworthy programs. To be specific, those behind STOP/DJVU ransomware tend to spread TYPO virus using cracked software and malicious email attachments.
Computer users who have a bad habit of trying to install paid software illegally are at high risk of infecting their computers with this notorious malware. The threat actors behind it often upload malicious files in guise of cracked software installers to various torrents listing or crack websites. We highly recommend reading about these dangerous websites here. The crooks try to lure unsuspecting victims with popular software names, such as Adobe Photoshop, Tenorshare 4ukey, Wondershare Filmora, FIFA, Cubase and others.
If you want to keep your computer safe, stay away from cracked software. When you need a specific software, go to its official website or visit trustworthy partner websites for deals. After all, software license or subscription usually costs less than pricey decryption software offered by ransomware operators.
In addition, ransomware operators often rely on an old malware distribution trick that is still commonly used nowadays – email phishing. They compose emails claiming to be from well-known online retailers, service providers, work colleagues or government entities. The attachments usually come in Microsoft Word, OneNote, Excel, or PDF formats, and are named as documents used in daily communications, for instance, invoices, order summaries, etc.
We strongly recommend staying away from suspicious emails that come from unsolicited senders. Typically, such emails can be identified from an urgent tone used in the message that asks to quickly open the attachment or click on an included URL.
Remove TYPO ransomware virus and protect your computer immediately
If you’re infected with the described malware, it is important to remove TYPO ransomware virus before it manages to cause more damage to your computer system. To delete all traces of malware, rely on a guide provided below.
You will also need to use a robust antivirus software for the task, such as INTEGO Antivirus. In addition, download RESTORO to identify virus-damaged Windows OS files and repair them manually or automatically.
Considering that your computer was also compromised by information-stealing Trojans, we highly recommend changing all of your passwords and taking action to secure your accounts you used to access on the compromised computer.
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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TYPO 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 TYPO 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 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 TYPO 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.
Alternative software recommendations
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
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Decrypt TYPO files
Fix and open large TYPO 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 TYPO 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. TYPO 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, 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 TYPO 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 TYPO 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 TYPO 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 TYPO 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 TYPO 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
You can only open TYPO 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 TYPO 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 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 TYPO 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 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.
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