This article has been created with the purpose to help explain to you what is the new version of STOP ransomware and how to remove it plus how to try and restore .STOPDATA files, encrypted by it on your PC.
A new variant of the STOP Ransomware virus, released back in January 2018, has been detected by security researchers to append the .STOPDATA file extension to the files, encrypted by it and then ask from victims to pay a hefty ransom fee in order to get the encrypted files recovered back to their normal working state. In the events that your computer has been affected by the .STOPDATA ransomware virus, we recommend that you read this article thoroughly so that you can understand more about it plus learn how you can remove it from your computer and how you can try and restore as many files as possible without having to pay ransom.
Threat Summary
| Name | .STOPDATA Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer machine and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with the help of the AES and RSA encryption algorithms. All locked files will have the .STOPDATA extension appended to them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .STOPDATA Virus. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
.STOPDATA Virus – Methods of Distribution
In order to be spread onto the computers of victims, the .STOPDATA files virus may be spread via various different types of methods. The ransomware has a payload which is dropped by an intermediary malware known as dropper. This dropper may be spread via different ways, the main ones of which are believed to be via e-mail messages that are sent directly to the victim. These e-mails often have malicious e-mail attachments embedded by them and those attachments have the main goal initiating the infection dropper. The e-mails often have convincing messages embedded in them and they often pretend to be legitimate Windows companies, such as:
- PayPal.
- DHL.
- FedEx.
- Image files
- Amazon.
- eBay.
In addition to being sent to victims, the malicious file, infecting computers with the .STOPDATA virus may also be sent to victims via a drive-by download web link on social media sites or even uploaded on websites, while posing as seemingly legitimate programs, from the likes of:
- Setups of software.
- Cracks.
- Keygens.
- Patches.
- Fixes.
- Portable programs.
.STOPDATA Ransomware – Further Information
The .STOPDATA ransomware virus may perform a wide variety of activities on the computer infected by it once it has dropped it’s payload. The payload of the .STOPDATA ransomware may consist of different types of files, each having it’s own set of activities to be done. The payload files may exist in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%.
- %Local%.
- %Temp%.
- %LocalLow%.
- %Roaming%.
- %SystemDrive%.
- %Windows%.
- %Documents%.
Once the malicious files of the .STOPDATA ransomware are dropped on the computer of the victim, the virus may begin it’s activity. Similar to it’s predecessor, the ransomware may drop it’s ransom note on the victim’s computer. The ransom note file has the following message to victims:
“All your important files were encrypted on this PC.
All files with .STOPDATA extension are encrypted.
Encryption was produced using unique private key RSA-1024 generated for this computer.
To decrypt your files, you need to obtain private key + decrypt software.
To retrieve the private key and decrypt software, you need to contact us by email datadecryption@bitmessage.ch send us an email your !!!RESTORE_DATA!!!.txt file and wait for further instructions.
For you to be sure, that we can decrypt your files – you can send us a 1-3 any not very big encrypted files and we will send you back it in a original form FREE.
Price for decryption $200 if you contact us first 72 hours.
Your personal id:
E-mail address to contact us:
datadecryption@bitmessage.ch
In addition to this, the .STOPDATA virus may create mutants as well as create scheduled tasks to run each time you start Windows. The virus may also collect information from your computer, such as:
- Computer name.
- Programs, installed on your PC.
- Network and system information.
The .STOPDATA files virus may then attack the shadow volume copies of the compromised PC in order to delete the files on your PC, that have been backed up by Windows. This happens by executing a malicious .bat file that runs Windows Commands as administrator. The commands which are executed by the .STOPDATA virus are believed to be the following:
→ sc stop VVS
sc stop wscsvc
sc stop WinDefend
sc stop wuauserv
sc stop BITS
sc stop ERSvc
sc stop WerSvc
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe” /C vssadmin.exe Delete Shadows /All /Quiet
.STOPDATA Virus – Encryption
Before encrypting the files on your computer, the .STOPDATA files ransomware may start to scan for the important file types that are used on a regular basis. These types of files often are:
- Music and other audio file types.
- Videos and all video file formats.
- Document file types.
- Image file types.
- Databases and backup file extensions.
- Signatures, virtual drives and other specific files.
After the .STOPDATA virus has detected those virus, the malware may use the RSA-1024 encryption algorithm in order to encrypt them. The encryption is performed in a way that the original files are deleted and their encrypted copies exist in a non-openable state and they appear like the following:
Remove STOP Ransomware and Restore .STOPDATA Files
In case your PC has been infected by the .STOPDATA virus, we advise that you read the removal instructions underneath this article. They have been created so that they enable you to remove this malware either manually or automatically from your computer. If manual removal does not seem to help, be advised that security experts recommend to remove the .STOPDATA ransomware automatically from your computer, preferably by downloading an advanced anti-malware software. It’s primary purpose is to scan your computer for various malicious files and then remove those files and objects in a safe manner plus make sure that your computer remains protected against future infections as well.
If you want to restore files, encrypted by the .STOPDATA variant of STOP ransomware, you can try and recover as many files as you can, preferably by trying out the file recovery methods underneath this article in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by .STOPDATA Virus”. They have been created to help you restore as many .STOPDATA files back to their normal state, but be advised that they are not a direct and complete solution and for such solution to take place, an official decryptor for this ransomware has to be released by the cyber-criminals or the malware researchers who are behind the .STOPDATA virus.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for .STOPDATA Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .STOPDATA Virus and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .STOPDATA Virus on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by .STOPDATA Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove .STOPDATA Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .STOPDATA Virus.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and .STOPDATA Virus aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
.STOPDATA Virus-FAQ
What is .STOPDATA Virus Ransomware?
.STOPDATA Virus is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does .STOPDATA Virus Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does .STOPDATA Virus Infect?
Via several ways..STOPDATA Virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of .STOPDATA Virus is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open ..STOPDATA Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..STOPDATA Virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your ..STOPDATA Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..STOPDATA Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..STOPDATA Virus files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of .STOPDATA Virus Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate .STOPDATA Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..STOPDATA Virus files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can .STOPDATA Virus Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the .STOPDATA Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .STOPDATA Virus how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the .STOPDATA Virus ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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