MSOP ransomware locks data and demands ransom paymentThreat SummaryThe ransom noteQuick guide on opportunities to decrypt .msop filesSTOP ransomware stays loyal to its only distribution vectorRemove MSOP ransomware virus easily
MSOP ransomware spreads via malicious downloads and, once installed, the first thing it does is disable security programs present on the victim’s computer. This allows it to start the system scanning and data encryption process without interruptions. To encrypt the files, the ransomware uses either online or offline key. The virus is developed to target specific file extensions and skip folders that hold files essential for the operating system to function. During the encryption procedure, the virus also creates a ransom note file and leaves it in every folder containing encrypted data. Finally, the malicious virus installs Azorult Trojan on the system. This Trojan is capable of stealing your passwords (primarily those you have saved in your browser’s memory) and sending them to criminals. Needless to say, in order to protect your computer, you need to remove MSOP ransomware virus along with other malware immediately. We kindly suggest using instructions provided at the end of this article to learn how to erase malware from your PC easily.
Threat Summary
The ransom note
_readme.txt file left by MSOP virus contains a message from cybercriminals. In fact, the contents of this note haven’t changed much since primary DJVU ransomware versions. The only difference is the contact emails provided in it. The ransom note says that all victim’s personal files were encrypted, but can be recovered by paying a specified sum of money to the ransomware developers. As explained in the note, the suggested ransom is $980, but the attackers suggest a 50% discount if the victim rushes to pay up within 72 hours. To encourage the victim to pay a ransom, the note also advises sending one small encrypted .msop extension file to the criminals via one of the provided contact email addresses. As a result, the criminals promise to send back an unencrypted version of it as proof that MSOP decryption tool exists. However, please keep in mind that security experts advise against paying the ransom. The reasons not to pay it are listed below.
First and foremost, paying the ransom encourages cybercriminals to push new ransomware versions and infect even more victims further. By paying, you simply fund their operations.Paying the ransom isn’t a guarantee that you will recover your files. The criminals might disappear and not provide any decryption means as soon as they receive the money.You can invest your money better – for example, buy external data storage devices for future backups which we expect you’ll be creating from now on.
Quick guide on opportunities to decrypt .msop files
If you want to decrypt .msop files, you need to find out how your files were encrypted in the first place. Therefore, here’s how to find out what keys were used for encryption: In other words, the ransomware failed to establish a connection with its remote server during the attack. In such case, we recommend checking for updates on this guide on DJVU ransomware decryption. Please note that it takes time to break the offline key, so be patient. However, if none your personal IDs have t1 at the end of it, your chances to recover files using any third-party decryptors are close to zero. The only hope to access private keys is by catching the ransomware developers, which is also not really possible. Creators of DJVU ransomware seem to be experienced, operate anonymously and know how to hide their traces really well.
STOP ransomware stays loyal to its only distribution vector
STOP/DJVU ransomware such as MSOP, ZOBM, ROTE, TOEC, MOSK and others is typically hidden in illegal downloads such as keygens and cracks. Such downloads are extremely popular – people tend to search for these on the Internet and download via peer-to-peer sharing software. Unfortunately, attempts to deceive software creators can end up sadly. In other words, better don’t try to activate software licenses for free, or you might end up with a pile of corrupted personal data. Many people reported installing this ransomware after downloading various photo-editing software or game cracks. So if you are thinking about sending such a file to your computer, think twice whether it is worth risking years of work or personal memories. At the end of the day, this can cause you more financial loss than actually purchasing a legitimate software license.
Remove MSOP ransomware virus easily
We recommend you to remove MSOP ransomware using trustworthy antivirus software of your choice. You can use the antivirus you already have, or download one now. If you don’t have security software yet, consider checking reviews on our site – there is plenty of free or paid products you can choose from. Next, use the instructions provided below to eliminate bot the ransomware and Azorult from the system. Once the MSOP ransomware removal is complete, focus on two tasks – changing all your passwords and taking actions to restore your files. If you have a backup, simply plug it into your now cleaned computer and start importing files. In case you do not have a backup, wait for the offline key to appear and then use STOP decryptor by Emsisoft. Finally, if data was locked by the online key, we suggest backing up the encrypted data but do not put your hopes too high. 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: GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more. 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. Read full review here. 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.
Alternative software recommendations
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove the 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, see a video tutorial on how to do it: Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10 users Now, you can search for and remove MSOP Ransomware 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 malware removal program. In addition, we suggest trying a combination of INTEGO Antivirus (removes malware and protects your PC in real-time) and RESTORO (repairs virus damage to Windows OS files).
Method 2. Use System Restore
In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically. Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10 users 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. 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.
