VPSH Virus (.vpsh File Ransomware) REMOVAL + DECRYPTION GUIDE
VPSH ransomware attacks victim’s private files
Contents
VPSH ransomware is a malicious computer virus that is a variant of STOP/DJVU malware. Once executed on the system, the virus scans victim’s file system for personal files and encrypts them using RSA cryptography. During the attack, this ransomware marks files with .vpsh file extension. For example, a file that was named as 1.jpg prior to the cyber attack, will appear as 1.jpg.vpsh after encryption. Such files can no longer be opened. In order to get further instructions regarding data recovery, the created _readme.txt ransom notes direct to write to provided emails – helpmanager@mail.ch and restoremanager@airmail.cc. This specific virus is also known to infect the computer with AZORULT password-stealer.
The following guide explains modus operandi of this ransomware, its removal methods and prospects to decrypt .vpsh files.
Criminals’ message in _readme.txt, explained
After wreaking havoc on the victim’s Windows-running computer, VPSH virus drops text files called _readme.txt, which are meant to provide the victim with information about the cyberattack and explain recommended further actions.
The note briefly explains that all files belonging to the computer user were encrypted using strongest cryptography algorithms, and that there is no way to recover them without a special decryption software and private decryption key. These tools are securely stored in criminals’ servers and can be purchased for a specified price, or in other words, ransom.
The note provides “guarantees” for the ransomware victim, stating that one can test the suggested tools before paying the ransom. To do this, the victim has to write to the ransomware developers via given emails (primary and alternative one), include personal ID (attached to the end of the ransom note) and include one small encrypted file for test decryption.
Do not pay the ransom!
Please beware that cybersecurity experts do not recommend paying ransom to cybercriminals. There are numerous reasons for it.
- You might never receive the decryption software after paying. It might be broken, or simply won’t work on your files due to the modifications you’ve made on them while trying to open them.
- If you decide to pay, the hackers will identify you as a potential victim for further attacks, because they will know you are willing to pay up.
- Paying the ransom funds further cybercrime industry projects.
That said, we definitely recommend investing your money in a robust anti-virus software or another useful program that can improve security and stability of your PC. What is more, consider creating data backups from now on – if you’ve had one now, you could restore your files with ease.
Now that you’re infected, you need to figure out what you need to do next. First, we recommend you to remove VPSH ransomware remains, then repair virus damage on Windows system using software like RESTORO.
Scan your system for FREE to detect security, hardware and stability issues. You can use the scan results and try to remove threats manually, or you can choose to get the full version of software to fix detected issues and repair virus damage to Windows OS system files automatically. Includes Avira spyware/malware detection & removal engine.
How the ransomware affected your files
Cryptography is widely used in information security. To be precise, cryptography helps to secure information in a way that only the parties meant to read the information can access it. For example, popular algorithms like RSA or AES are widely used in various areas, such as securing military-grade secrets, information transmission online, and similar.
While the purpose of cryptography is entirely legitimate, criminals leverage it to take advantage of computer users who accidentally download malware to their computers, and take all of victim’s information (files) hostage.
While the purpose of cryptography is entirely legitimate, criminals leverage it to take advantage of computer users who accidentally download malware to their computers, and take all of victim’s information (files) hostage.
To encrypt victim’s files, the ransomware uses public key. However, for file decryption, private key is required. This key is the one that cybercriminals are trying to sell you. There is no way to crack this key, unless you can gain access to cybercriminals’ servers, which is nearly impossible. In addition, attempts to guess the decryption key, which is a very long string of characters, could take years even with the strongest computer.
| Name | VPSH Virus (Ransomware) |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-virus; File Locker; |
| Malicious files | C2D.exe, 0H5C.tmp.exe (or similar), updatewin.exe |
| Detection names | TR/AD.InstaBot.BJ (Avira), Gen:Heur.Dreidel.Tu0@xu4klpk (B) (Emsisoft), Trojan:Win32/Glupteba (Microsoft) see full list on VT |
| Dropped files | _readme.txt, PersonalID.txt, all encrypted file versions |
| Origins | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption algorithm | RSA |
| Version | 262st |
| Other versions | VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (find full list here) |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Decryption price | $490 in 3 days, $980 if later |
| Extension used | .VPSH |
| Criminal contact | helpmanager@mail.ch and restoremanager@airmail.cc |
| Symptoms of infection | All files on computer are encrypted and cannot be opened. The victim finds ransom notes in every folder. The victim might also notice that one can no longer login into websites using credentials saved in web browsers. |
| Additional damage | STOP/DJVU virus variants install AZORULT Trojan on the compromised computers. It is capable of stealing passwords from web browsers. The ransomware also makes malicious changes to Windows HOSTS file. You can restore this file using these instructions. |
| Distribution | Proliferated via illegal files such as software/game cracks, keygens, also KMSPico. Victims typically find these downloads in torrent websites. |
| Removal | Remove ransomware using malware removal software and repair virus damage using RESTORO. You can read its review here. |
Ransomware distribution: avoid getting infected
Since ransomware is extremely active cyber weapon nowadays, it is essential to learn how to avoid installing it accidentally. Therefore, we’d like to introduce common ways used for ransomware distribution, which will help you to bypass executing one on your Windows OS unexpectedly.
The most common distribution method associated specifically with STOP/DJVU variants is malicious and often illegal downloads. To be precise, we are talking about usage of peer-to-peer file sharing platforms and websites providing copyrighted material for free. For example, downloads such as movies, software or game versions that typically cost money but are provided for “free” via various torrent-sharing domains are known to contain malware.
STOP/DJVU versions are extremely likely to be disguised as cracks or keygens used to activate software licenses illegally. Some victims have also reported downloading this virus via KMSPico downloads. Needless to say, you must stay away from such content. If you want to get your hands on specific software or movies, you should head to its official developers website, or sign up for an official movie streaming platform.
Another ransomware distribution method that is no less popular is malicious email spam. Criminals might send you messages including attachments, claiming to be someone from well-known companies or even governments. you can see some examples of infectious and phishing emails below.
NOTE: Even if the message sender’s email looks legitimate, it can be spoofed. The rule of a thumb is to never let your curiosity win and never open emails you did not expect, or if you can feel that there is something “wrong” with the email – it contains typos, grammar mistakes, or suspicious graphic design or company’s logos that do not seem authentic.
Remove VPSH ransomware safely
Now that your computer has been compromise, it is essential to remove VPSH ransomware virus from your computer securely. We recommend following professional guidelines provided below, and using your selected malware removal software for deleting malicious remains from the system.
Once VPSH virus removal is done, we recommend running a scan with RESTORO, a popular PC repair software that can fix virus damage done to Windows system. You can learn more about the software here. We have also appended file decryption instructions and guidelines where to report cybercrime incident in your country. Additionally, we recommend you to change all login credentials for websites saved in your browsers due to the Azorult Trojan’s activity on the system.
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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:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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VPSH 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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, which also includes data recovery software. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.
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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
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.
Decrypt VPSH files
Fix and open large VPSH 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 VPSH 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. VPSH ransomware virus 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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 VPSH 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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