MARK (Makop) Ransomware

The MARK ransomware is a malicious program that encrypts files on infected systems, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Belonging to the Makop ransomware family, MARK appends a unique extension to each encrypted file and drops a ransom note instructing victims on how to pay for decryption. This ransomware is particularly dangerous due to its ability to spread through various distribution methods and its potential to cause significant data loss.

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Threat Overview

The MARK ransomware operates by encrypting files on the victim’s computer and appending a unique extension to each file. It then drops a ransom note named “+README-WARNING+.txt” in each affected directory, providing instructions on how to contact the attackers and pay the ransom. The ransomware also changes the desktop wallpaper to further alert the victim of the infection.

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Threat Summary

Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.MARK
Ransom Note File Name	+README-WARNING+.txt
Associated Email Addresses	decsupp24@tuta.io, decsupp247@outlook.com
Detection Names	Win32:Fasec [Trj], Gen:Variant.Ransom.Makop.50, A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.Phobos.E, HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic, Ransom:Win32/Phobos.PB!MTB
Symptoms of Infection	Inaccessible files with .MARK extension, ransom note displayed, changed desktop wallpaper
Damage	File encryption leading to data loss, potential spread to networked systems
Distribution Methods	Infected email attachments, pirated software, technical support scams, torrent websites, malicious ads
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

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Detailed Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

The MARK ransomware is typically distributed through various channels, including:

• Infected email attachments containing malicious macros or links
• Pirated software and unauthorized activation tools
• Technical support scams
• Torrent websites hosting compromised files
• Malicious advertisements on untrustworthy websites

Once the victim interacts with the malicious content, the ransomware is downloaded and executed on the system.

What Does It Do?

Upon execution, the MARK ransomware performs the following actions:

1. File Encryption: It encrypts files on the system, appending a unique extension in the format: .[victim_id].[decsupp24@tuta.io].MARK.
2. Ransom Note Creation: It drops a ransom note named “+README-WARNING+.txt” in each affected directory, providing instructions for contacting the attackers and paying the ransom.
3. Desktop Wallpaper Change: The ransomware changes the desktop wallpaper to alert the victim of the infection.
4. Persistence Mechanisms: It may implement techniques to maintain persistence on the system and avoid detection.

Should You Be Worried?

Yes, the MARK ransomware poses a significant threat due to its ability to encrypt important files and demand a ransom for their decryption. Paying the ransom does not guarantee that the attackers will provide the decryption key, and it encourages further criminal activity. It is crucial to remove the ransomware promptly and attempt to recover files through backups or professional data recovery services.

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Ransom Note Text

The ransom note dropped by the MARK ransomware, named “+README-WARNING+.txt”, contains the following message:

All your files have been encrypted!
To restore your files, contact us at:
Email: decsupp24@tuta.io or decsupp247@outlook.com
Telegram: @decsupport24
Do not attempt to decrypt files yourself; it may result in permanent data loss.

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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Conclusion

The MARK ransomware is a dangerous threat that encrypts files and demands a ransom for their decryption. It spreads through various channels and can cause significant data loss. It is essential to remove the ransomware promptly using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter and avoid paying the ransom. Regular backups and cautious online behavior are crucial in preventing such infections.