Gapo – General Info
Gapo is a malicious software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known malware researcher, very first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Gapo was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as quickly as the encryption is successfully achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Gapo virus includes its own “.gapo” to all the encrypted files. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Gapo, will be titled as “price_list.xls.gapo”. As soon as the encryption is achieved, Gapo puts its own distinct text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The message stated by document asking for the random os extremely similar to the notices offered by other ransomware hazards coming from the DJVU family. The warning basically indicates that the files have been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is definitely real.
The technique to secure the files utilized by Gapo is not completely looked into. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be provided a special decryption key, which is absolutely distinct. It is exceptionally difficult to recover the data without the suitable key in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Gapo infection is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the complete control by the criminals who have introduced the Gapo ransomware into the internet. In order to acquire the key and bring back the essential data, the users are informed to contact the scams by means of e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise states that individuals should call the Gapo authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information file encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will obtain a 50% discount rate, therefore, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Gapo modified your information, however, it may not be the only hazard on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To spot and delete the hazard entirely, we recommend you to refer to the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware app.
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online crooks will keep their promises, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. For this reason, paying ransom frequently does not result in a successful healing. So, the users may merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Similarly, we advise you not to get in touch with the scams as they instruct. Do not move loan into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Gapo virus or bring back the data for free. For that reason, the only proper choice is to restore the information from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Gapo Ransomware |
| File Extension | gapo |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Family | DJVU |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts all the data stored on your system and requires a ransom to be paid on your part supposedly to recover your important files. |
| Symptoms | File encryption by the ransomware is performed by means of the AES-256 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .gapo extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Gapo Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Gapo Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections comparable to the Gapo virus. For example, this particular threat is essentially similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have been developed in order to secure the essential data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to produce the particular key for successful information decryption.
Unless the Gapo ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has actually got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the data by hand. Therefore, the only working service to prevent the loss of your important data is to routinely preserve up-to-date backups of all your essential files.
Another important piece of guidance is to save the backups on special storage not linked to your main computer. For example, you may save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your routine drive is very risky, given that the backup might also be secured by the Gapo .
Leakages for the Gapo ransomware attack.
Gapo uses lots of paths to infiltrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not particular what specific technique was used in your case, nevertheless, the intrusion may take place by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, generally freeware;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites providing free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Gapo ransomware might camouflage itself as some genuine application, for instance, through the deceptive notifies demanding setup of some software upgrade. This is the most common trick utilized by the scams to inject the Gapo infection files into the system. In this manner users partially participate in its setup, without plainly comprehending the risk.
In addition, the scams may send out unsolicited spam email with challenging notifies motivating the people to open suspicious accessories or click on some download links, for instance, those encouraging individuals to open particular photos, text files, tax documents and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the destructive links might basically harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update notices may result in the Gapo ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the split software application might additionally contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Gapo might happen through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission or perhaps approval.
Preventing the Gapo virus attack.
Obviously, there is no absolute assurance that your computer system will be always free of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we wish to share some helpful tips with you to make it much safer. Make certain to pay extremely very close attention while searching the web and especially while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, particularly if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer may also contain some other additional apps in the bundle. These extra applications might be extremely damaging. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your os in basic to be constantly effectively upgraded.
It is quite logical that downloading pirated apps is prohibited, however, furthermore, such unapproved software use may also bring severe damage to your system. Hence, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the fact that your present anti-virus did not protect the system from the Gapo ransomware is a great reason for you to reassess your choices and switch to another program that can render the securing functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Gapo text file:
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-2P5WrE5b9f 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: restorealldata@firemail.cc Reserve e-mail address to contact us: gorentos@bitmessage.ch Our Telegram account: @datarestore
Screenshot of files with “.gapo” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Gapo ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can download GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:
2. Double-click on the setup file.
When setup file has finished downloading, double-click on the setup-antimalware-ag.exe file to install GridinSoft Anti-Malware on your computer.
An User Account Control asking you about to allow GridinSoft Anti-Malware to make changes to your device. So, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.
4. Wait for the GridinSoft Anti-Malware scan to complete.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically start scanning your computer for Win Speedup 2018 and other malicious programs. This process can take a 20-30 minutes, so we suggest you periodically check on the status of the scan process.
5. Click on “Clean Now”.
When the scan has completed, you will see the list of infections that GridinSoft Anti-Malware has detected. To remove them click on the “Clean Now” button in right corner.
Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore gapo files
You can get Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:
- Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
- Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
- By default, the decryptor will pre-populate the locations to decrypt with the currently connected drives and network drives. Additional locations can be added using the Add” button.
- Decryptors typically offer various options depending on the particular malware family. The available options are located in the Options tab and can be enabled or disabled there. You can find a detailed list of the available Options below.
- After you have added all the locations you want to decrypt to the list, click the “Decrypt” button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files
- The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your personal records, you can save it by clicking the “Save log” button. You can also copy it straight to your clipboard to paste it into emails or forum posts if you are asked to.
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