VVOO ransomware takes files hostage, demands ransom payment
Contents
VVOO ransomware is a malicious computer virus that encrypts files on a computer and then attempts to extort the computer user. It is a variant of the widespread STOP/DJVU ransomware family. After running on the target system, the malware begins encrypting every personal file stored on it, including photos, documents, audio and video files, archives, and other data formats. As a result, these files become inaccessible for the computer user. The ransomware also appends .vvoo extension to locked files to make them distinguishable, and drops _readme.txt ransom note in each folder.
To explain how to recognize encrypted files, see the following example: files that were originally named 1.jpg, 2.txt or 3.png will appear as 1.jpg.vvoo, 2.txt.vvoo and 3.png.vvoo after being modified. These files will also have blank icons instead of their original ones.
The ransomware operators leave their message for the victim in the so-called ransom notes. According to them, the malware has modified the files with the strongest encryption algorithm (which is true) and the damage can only be reversed with VVOO file decryption tool and unique key. The criminals suggest that they are willing to provide it only after receiving a payment from the victim, or, in other words, ransom.
The note proceeds to explain the pricing of such tools. It suggests that whoever contacts the criminals within 72 hours since being hit by the ransomware will get a 50% discount, meaning that the price of the tools will be $490. On the other hand, victims who won’t meet this condition of the criminals will be asked to pay full amount, which is $980. In both cases, the crooks will specify that they only accept payments made via cryptocurrency, as this preserves their anonymity.
The note includes two email addresses that the victim can write to: support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. It also includes victim’s Personal ID string, which the criminals ask to send to them along with a sample of one encrypted file (preferably one that doesn’t contain valuable information). They promise to decrypt one sample file in order to encourage the victim to pay the ransom.
Beware of information-stealers that accompany this ransomware
In general, most samples of STOP/DJVU ransomware are spotted together with information-stealing Trojans. In fact, samples we have reviewed carried VIDAR, AZORult or RedLine Stealers, all of them known to be highly dangerous tools that cybercriminals use to extract sensitive data from compromised computers remotely.
These are capable of stealing saved passwords, offline cryptocurrency wallets, cookies, browsing history, computer information, installed software and active processes’ list, and more. However, it seems that cybercriminals do not care enough to mention this hazard in their ransom note.
Why you should not pay the ransom and actions to take now
We do not recommend paying the ransom as this may not lead to data recovery. There are no guarantees that criminals will stick to their side of the deal, even if you do as they ask. Furthermore, they may see you as an easy target and try to extort even more money after receiving the payment. They may also try to target you again. On top of that, paying a ransom encourages cybercrime and helps the attackers to employ more collaborators, infect more computers and extort even more people. We strongly recommend that you review these guidelines for ransomware victims published by FBI and also by NCSC.
If your computer has been hit by the described file-encrypting malware variant, we recommend that you remove VVOO ransomware virus without any hesitation. You can find guidelines on how to do it below this article. Make sure you use a robust antivirus for the task.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | VVOO Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here) |
| Version | 645th |
| Extension | .vvoo |
| 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 .vvoo 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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Ransomware distribution: how to avoid getting hit by this notorious malware
Ransomware-type viruses are mostly distributed via malicious email attachments, rogue websites, torrents, exploits, or even with the help of social engineering tactics.
When it comes to STOP/DJVU variants like VVOO virus, the vast majority of victims report downloading it in a form of a fake software crack/setup file off some rogue websites online.
Some of these dangerous websites even show up in search results when users look up popular software cracks online. They usually ask whether the user wants to download the installation file via direct link or torrent, and then provide a password-protected archive file. The password protection helps to bypass antivirus detection, however, if the victim enters the provided password and opens the malicious setup.exe file, the malware hidden in it begins its malevolent work instantly.
As a result, instead of installing desired software, the victim gets all of his/hers files locked. Therefore, we strongly recommend avoiding such illegal content sharing platforms, as they’re filled with malware most of the time.
Cybercriminals also frequently use phishing emails with malicious attachments to deliver ransomware. They pretend to be someone they’re not to appear trustworthy for the recipients, for example, they impersonate legitimate companies, government organizations, or online retailers and claim to be delivering some important documents that need to be reviewed by the recipient.
These emails are designed to spark target’s curiosity or fear, for example, they may claim a large sum will be charged from recipient’s bank account, or that there is a parcel on the way. In general, these emails are written in an urgent tone, often threatening the target that some problem needs to be resolved. If the recipient opens the attached document, the computer can get infected immediately. For this reason, we encourage computer users to stay cautious when checking their emails and avoid opening attachments/links provided by unknown or unsolicited senders.
In general, computer users should practice caution when checking their email, avoid pirated downloads, and keep the computer’s operating system as well as software installed on it up-to-date. Another important thing to mention is that using an antivirus with real-time protection can guard you from numerous cyber hazards 24/7.
Remove VVOO ransomware virus and decrypt your files
If you have spotted the described malware on your computer and found out that your files became inaccessible, the first thing you should do now is remove VVOO ransomware virus as well as other threats from your computer. You can find a detailed guide on how to do it below.
The outlined VVOO ransomware removal guide explains how to boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking and run your chosen AV from there.
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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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VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO files
Fix and open large VVOO 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 VVOO 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. VVOO Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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 VVOO 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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