MPPQ Ransomware is yet Another Member of the STOP/Djvu Family
The ransomware pandemic is not about to dwindle down, and there’s more infections to look out for out there. For instance, MPPQ Ransomware is another ransomware infection that belongs to the popular STOP (aka STOP-Djvu) Ransomware family that initially appeared in 2018.
Upon infection, MPPQ Ransomware will scan the computer and encrypt the user’s files using the RSA encryption algorithm. Then, the malware appends the .mpqq file extension to the encrypted files and drops a ransom that demands $980 to restore files. The hackers are also willing to cut that payment by 50% to $490 if they receive communication from their victims within the first 72 hours after infection.
The hackers provide 2 email addresses, ‘helpteam@mail.ch‘ and ‘helpmanager@airmail.cc.’ In addition, victims can attach a single non-critical file to their email message that, allegedly, will be decrypted for free as proof that the remaining files can be restored as well.
The full text of the MPPQ Ransomware ransom note reads:
“ATTENTION! Don’t worry, you can return all your files! All your files like pictures, 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: hxxps://we.tl/t-MWDNpfphPO. 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: helpteam@mail.ch Reserve e-mail address to contact us: helpmanager@airmail.cc Your personal ID:”
As always, we do not recommend paying the ransom and would offer that the best prevention of MPPQ Ransomware comes with arming your computer with a reputable malware remediation tool. Also, remember to keep copies of important photos, documents, and other personal files safe using cloud storage or secure external drives. If you have backups, you will not need to fear losing important files in case ransomware attacks again.
