Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Mkos Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .mkos files)

Mkos – Ransomware

Mkos is a destructive software application functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Mkos was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as quickly as the encryption is successfully achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Mkos ransomware includes its own “.mkos” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Mkos, will be titled as “price_list.xls.mkos”. When the encryption is achieved, Mkos puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.

The alert specified by _readme.txt requesting the random os extremely similar to the alerts offered by other ransomware risks coming from the DJVU family. The warning essentially shows that the data has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely real.

The method to encrypt the files used by Mkos is not totally looked into. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be issued an unique decryption key, which is definitely special. It is extremely hard to recover the information without the proper key in location.

“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:

message from Mkos virus

One more peculiarity of the Mkos virus is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the total control by the criminals who have actually introduced the Mkos ransomware into the internet. In order to obtain the key and bring back the crucial data, the users are told to get in touch with the frauds via e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.

The message likewise states that individuals need to get in touch with the Mkos authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount rate, therefore, the ransom amount drops down to $490.

No matter what the quantity 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 file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom frequently does not result in an effective recovery. So, the users may merely lose their money for nothing.

Likewise, we urge you not to contact the frauds as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Mkos ransomware or bring back the data at no charge. Therefore, the only right choice is to restore the information from possible backups (if offered).

Virus Summary

NameMkos Ransomware
File Extensionmkos
TypeRansomware
FamilyDJVU
Short DescriptionThe 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.
SymptomsFile 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 .mkos extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution MethodAdware bundles and software cracks
Similar InfectionsNbes, Merl, Gesd
Removal Tool   GridinSoft Anti-Malware

Do not forget that the Web is now filled with infections comparable to the Mkos ransomware. For instance, this particular danger is generally identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful energies have been developed in order to encrypt the crucial information and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to create the specific key for successful data decryption.

Unless the Mkos ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information by hand. Therefore, the only working option to avoid the loss of your crucial information is to frequently keep current backups of all your crucial documents.

Another crucial piece of guidance is to save the backups on unique storage not linked to your primary PC. For instance, you might keep it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is extremely dangerous, considering that the backup may likewise be encrypted by the Mkos .

Leaks for the Mkos ransomware attack.

Mkos utilizes many paths to penetrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not specific what particular method was utilized in your case, however, the intrusion may occur through the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, primarily freeware;
  • spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
  • websites providing complimentary hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.

There are times when the Mkos might camouflage itself as some authentic application, for instance, through the misleading signals demanding setup of some software application upgrade. This is the most typical trick utilized by the scams to inject the Mkos virus files into the system. This way users partly take part in its installation, without plainly understanding the danger.

In addition, the frauds may send out unsolicited spam e-mail with difficult notifies motivating individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for instance, those motivating individuals to open certain pictures, text files, tax documents and other info.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the harmful links may basically harm the system. Fake Acrobat Reader upgrade alerts may cause the Mkos ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the split software application may additionally contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Mkos might take place through some Trojan horses that might be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization or perhaps consent.

Avoiding the Mkos virus injection.

Naturally, there is no absolute warranty that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, however, we want to share some helpful tips with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay very attention while browsing the web and especially while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email accessories, especially if the sender is not known to you.

Do not forget that particular freeware installer might also consist of some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications may be extremely destructive. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in general to be always appropriately updated.

It is quite logical that downloading cracked software is unlawful, however, in addition, such unauthorized software use may likewise bring serious damage to your system. Hence, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the fact that your existing anti-virus did not secure the system from the Mkos ransomware is a good reason for you to reassess your options and switch to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a far better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Mkos 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 “.mkos” extension added by the virus:”

Mkos Ransomware - encrypt files with .mkos extension

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Mkos ransomware from your computer

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can download GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:

  GridinSoft Anti-Malware

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware
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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Setup

3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware Install

3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware  Start

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan Result

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Daniel Zimmermann

Daniel Zimmermann has been writing on security and malware subjects for many years and has been working in the security industry for over 10 years. Daniel was educated at the Saarland University in Saarbrücken, Germany and currently lives in New York.

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