Masok Ransomware
Cybersecurity researchers spot new data-locking Trojans daily. One of the most recent ones goes by the name Masok Ransomware. When inspected, the Masok Ransomware revealed to be a variant of the STOP Ransomware.
Propagation and Encryption
It is yet to be determined with any certainty what is the specific propagation method that has been employed in the spreading of the Masok Ransomware. Some experts believe that the creators of the Masok Ransomware have used the conventional methods of propagating ransomware threats – mass spam email campaigns alongside bogus software updates and pirated fake copies of various applications. When the Masok Ransomware manages to infiltrate a system, it will start the attack with a brief scan. The scan is used to determine the locations of the files, which will be marked for encryption. Then, the Masok Ransomware will begin locking the marked files. Once the Masok Ransomware encrypts a file, it will alter its name by adding a '.masok' extension at the end of the filename. As an example, we can mention that an audio file, which was named 'Onyx-and-Peridot.mp3' previously, will be renamed to 'Onyx-and-Peridot.mp3.masok' once the encryption process is completed.
The Ransom Note
In the next phase of the attack, the Masok Ransomware will drop a ransom note called '_readme.txt' and reads:
’ ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
https://we.tl/t-o7ClqIH7RS
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.
To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
gorentos@bitmessage.ch
Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
gorentos2@firemail.cc
Our Telegram account:
@datarestore
Mark Data Restore
Your personal ID:’
The attackers are asking for a ransom fee of $980 but offer a 50% discount to users who manage to contact them within 72 hours. They will 'only' have to pay $490. The attackers offer to unlock one file free of charge so that the victim knows that they are able to decrypt all their data. The attackers expect to be contacted via email at 'gorentos@bitmessage.ch' or 'gorentos2@firemail.cc' or alternatively on Telegram @datarestore.
We counsel you to stay away from cyber crooks altogether. Do not give your hard-earned cash to such shady individuals, especially since there is no guarantee that they will provide you with the promised decryption key. A safer approach is to download and install a legitimate anti-spyware application, which will remove the Masok Ransomware from your computer swiftly.
