Run (Makop) Ransomware

Warning: Your files have been encrypted by Run (Makop) ransomware, a dangerous malware designed to lock your data and demand a ransom for decryption. Paying the attackers does not guarantee that your files will be recovered.

Run ransomware is part of the Makop ransomware family, known for its aggressive file encryption and extortion tactics. It specifically targets documents, images, databases, and other personal or business-critical files, leaving victims unable to access important data. Early detection and proper removal are crucial to prevent permanent data loss.

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Threat Summary

Threat Name	Run (Makop) ransomware
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.run
Ransom Note Filename	+README-WARNING+.txt
Email Contact	runandpay@outlook.com
Detection Names	Avast: Win32:Fasec [Trj], ESET-NOD32: Win32/Filecoder.Phobos.E, Microsoft: Ransom:Win32/Phobos.PB!MTB
Symptoms	Files become inaccessible and are renamed with .run, ransom note displayed, system slowdowns
Damage & Distribution	Encrypts personal and business files; spreads via malicious email attachments, pirated software, fake downloads, and compromised websites
Danger Level	Very High

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How Did Run (Makop) Ransomware Infect My System?

Run ransomware primarily infiltrates systems through social engineering techniques and deceptive downloads. Common infection vectors include:

• Malicious email attachments disguised as invoices, documents, or software updates
• Pirated software, cracks, or key generators bundled with ransomware payloads
• Fake download links, pop-up ads, or compromised websites
• Infected USB drives or shared network folders

Once the ransomware is executed, it immediately gains access to user files and begins encrypting data. It can also modify system settings, drop ransom notes, and attempt to maintain persistence to survive system restarts. This malware is highly evasive, making traditional antivirus solutions less effective unless actively updated.

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What Run (Makop) Ransomware Does to Your Files

After execution, Run ransomware scans the system for valuable files and encrypts them with strong algorithms. It appends the .run extension to every affected file and changes filenames in this format:

originalfilename.ext.[UNIQUEID].[runandpay@outlook.com].run

Once encryption is complete, the malware displays a ransom note named +README-WARNING+.txt, which instructs victims to contact the attackers via email and pay a ransom, usually in Bitcoin. The ransom note often threatens permanent data loss or the public release of files if payment is not made promptly. In addition to encrypting files, Run may:

• Change desktop wallpaper to display ransom instructions
• Disable system restore options to prevent recovery
• Attempt to spread to connected network drives and shared folders

These tactics make Run ransomware a high-risk threat for both individuals and small businesses.

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Should You Pay the Ransom?

Paying the ransom is strongly discouraged. There is no guarantee that attackers will provide a decryption key, and many victims end up losing money without recovering their files. Instead, users should focus on:

• Removing the ransomware completely
• Restoring files from offline backups
• Using professional decryption tools, if available

Investing in reputable cybersecurity software and backup solutions is critical to avoid future ransomware attacks.

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Ransom Note Details

The ransom note +README-WARNING+.txt provides instructions on how to contact attackers and make payment. It emphasizes urgency, often offering reduced payment amounts within a limited timeframe. The note is primarily designed to coerce victims into paying quickly and does not provide any legitimate method for file recovery.

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Manual Ransomware Removal Guide

Warning: Manual removal is complex and risky. If not done correctly, it can lead to data loss or incomplete removal of ransomware. Only follow this method if you are an advanced user. If unsure, proceed with Method 2 (SpyHunter Removal Guide).

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

1. Unplug your Ethernet cable or disconnect Wi-Fi immediately to prevent further communication with the ransomware’s command and control (C2) servers.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

For Windows Users:

1. For Windows 10, 11:
   • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
   • Go to the Boot tab.
   • Check Safe boot and select Network.
   • Click Apply and OK, then restart your PC.
2. For Windows 7, 8:
   • Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows loads.
   • Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
2. Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
3. Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes

For Windows Users:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
3. Right-click on the process and select End Task.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
2. Look for unusual processes.
3. Select the process and click Force Quit.

Step 4: Delete Malicious Files

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
2. Delete all files in the Temp folder.
3. Navigate to:
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
   • C:\Windows\System32
4. Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
2. Type ~/Library/Application Support and delete suspicious folders.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/LaunchAgents and remove unknown .plist files.

Step 5: Remove Ransomware from Registry or System Settings

For Windows Users:

Warning: Incorrect changes in the Registry Editor can damage your system. Proceed with caution.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
3. Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
4. Right-click and select Delete.

For Mac Users:

1. Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
2. Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/Preferences and remove malicious .plist files.

Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
2. Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
3. Choose a backup prior to the ransomware infection and restore your system.

Step 7: Use a Decryption Tool (If Available)

• Visit No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) and check if a decryption tool is available for your ransomware variant.

Step 8: Recover Files Using Backup

• If you have backups on an external drive or cloud storage, restore your files.

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Automatic Ransomware Removal Using SpyHunter

If manual removal seems too risky or complicated, using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter is the best alternative.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

Download SpyHunter from the official link: Download SpyHunter

Or follow the official installation instructions here:
SpyHunter Download Instructions

Step 2: Install SpyHunter

1. Open the downloaded file (SpyHunter-Installer.exe).
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
3. Once installed, launch SpyHunter.

Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Click on Start Scan Now.
2. SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
3. Wait for the scan to complete.

Step 4: Remove Detected Threats

1. After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
2. Click Fix Threats to remove the ransomware.

Step 5: Use SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk (If Needed)

If you are dealing with a stubborn ransomware variant, SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk provides custom fixes to remove advanced threats.

Step 6: Restore Your Files

If your files are encrypted:

• Try No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) for decryption tools.
• Restore from cloud storage or external backups.

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Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks

• Keep backups on an external hard drive or cloud storage.
• Use SpyHunter to detect threats before they infect your system.
• Enable Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
• Avoid suspicious emails, attachments, and links.
• Update Windows, macOS & software regularly.

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Aftermath & Recovery Tips

• Backups are key: Maintain regular offline backups to prevent permanent data loss.
• Ransomware-specific decryptors: Check reputable sources for any free tools for Makop ransomware.
• Strengthen security measures: Use advanced antivirus and antimalware software, enable email filtering, and implement network security protocols.
• Monitor for residual threats: After removal, ensure no leftover executables or registry keys remain that could trigger reinfection.