This article has been created to explain to you what is the .DATASTOP ransomware virus and how to remove it from your computer plus how you can restore files, encrypted by it.
A new ransomware virus, using the .DATASTOP file extension to encrypt the files on the computers of victims has been detected by researchers. The virus’s primary purpose is to encrypt the files on the computers infected by it after which to set the .DATASTOP file extension. The ransomware then drops a ransom note type of file, called !!!DATA_RESTORE!!!.txt aiming to convince victims that they should pay ransom if they want to see their files again. If you want to remove this ransomware virus and try to restore .DATASTOP files without having to pay ransom, we advise that you read this article thoroughly.
Threat Summary
| Name | .DATASTOP Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware aims to encrypt the files on the compromised computers and then ask victims to pay ransom in BitCoin to get the encrypted files back. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted with an added .DATASTOP file extension and a ransom note, called !!!DATA_RESTORE!!!.txt. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .DATASTOP Ransomware. |
| 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. |
.DATASTOP Files Virus – Distribution
The .DATASTOP files virus aims to infect the computers of victims via e-mail by sending malicious e-mail attachments, whose primary purpose is to get victims to download and execute the file, believing it is an important documents. The cyber-criminals often tend to use false statements to make it seem like the attachment is an important document, for example:
In addition to this, the .DATASTOP ransomware virus is the type of ransomware that can also infect your computer as a result of you having to download and execute it’s malicious file, while believing it is a legitimate type of file, such as:
- Setup of a program.
- Portable version of software.
- Game patch or crack.
- Key generator.
.DATASTOP Files Virus – Malicious Activity
The .DATASTOP files virus aims to slither into the victims computers undetected. When this happens, the virus aims to check your computer’s version and send information to the cyber-criminals, like your IP address and other types of system data. The malware may also check if the computer it’s running on has previously been infected by it’s variants or if it’s running in a virtual environment. If this is so, the .DATASTOP files virus shuts down and if not, the ransomware virus may drop it’s payload files on the computers of victims. The payload of .DATASTOP files virus may located in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
Among the files of the .DATASTOP ransomware dropped is the virus’s ransom note, called !!!DATA_RESTORE!!!.txt, that has the following message for victims to see:
All your important files were encrypted on this PC.
All files with .DATASTOP 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 decryptiondata@bitmessage.ch send us an email your !!!DATA_RESTORE!!!.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.
Your personal id:
E-mail address to contact us:
decryptiondata@bitmessage.ch
Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
decryptiondata@india.com
In addition to this, the .DATASTOP ransomware virus may also add registry entries in the Run and RunOnce Windows registry sub-keys, which have the following locations:
→ 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
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Personalization
But the malicious activity of .DATASTOP file ransomware, do not stop there. Since it is a variant of the STOP ransomware virus, it may be updated to perform more malicious activities in addition to the traditional ones, performed by this infection.
One of the activities that may be performed by the .DATASTOP files virus may be to delete the shadow volume copies of the infected computer system, preferrably by running a script that executes the following Windows commands as an administrator in the background:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet & bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryeenabled no & bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures”
.DATASTOP Files Virus – File Encryption
In order to encrypt the files on the computers that have been compromised by it, the .DATASTOP files virus is the type of ransomware that aims to run a scan of the file types that are often used. These files are documents, videos, images, archives and other importand objects. The virus may scan for them based on their file extensions, for example:
“PNG .PSD .PSPIMAGE .TGA .THM .TIF .TIFF .YUV .AI .EPS .PS .SVG .INDD .PCT .PDF .XLR .XLS .XLSX .ACCDB .DB .DBF .MDB .PDB .SQL .APK .APP .BAT .CGI .COM .EXE .GADGET .JAR .PIF .WSF .DEM .GAM .NES .ROM .SAV CAD Files .DWG .DXF GIS Files .GPX .KML .KMZ .ASP .ASPX .CER .CFM .CSR .CSS .HTM .HTML .JS .JSP .PHP .RSS .XHTML. DOC .DOCX .LOG .MSG .ODT .PAGES .RTF .TEX .TXT .WPD .WPS .CSV .DAT .GED .KEY .KEYCHAIN .PPS .PPT .PPTX ..INI .PRF Encoded Files .HQX .MIM .UUE .7Z .CBR .DEB .GZ .PKG .RAR .RPM .SITX .TAR.GZ .ZIP .ZIPX .BIN .CUE .DMG .ISO .MDF .TOAST .VCD SDF .TAR .TAX2014 .TAX2015 .VCF .XML Audio Files .AIF .IFF .M3U .M4A .MID .MP3 .MPA .WAV .WMA Video Files .3G2 .3GP .ASF .AVI .FLV .M4V .MOV .MP4 .MPG .RM .SRT .SWF .VOB .WMV 3D .3DM .3DS .MAX .OBJ .BMP .DDS .GIF .JPG ..CRX .PLUGIN .FNT .FON .OTF .TTF .CAB .CPL .CUR .DESKTHEMEPACK .DLL .DMP .DRV .ICNS .ICO .LNK .SYS .CFG”
In addition to this, the .DATASTOP ransomware virus may also add important Windows directories, like %Windows%, %System%, etc. to it’s whitelist in order to skip encrypting files in those folders so that you can still use your computer.
The .DATASTOP ransomware uses two ciphers to lock your important files:
- AES encrption algorithm.
- RSA-1024 encryption cipher.
The ransomware then ads the .DATASTOP file extension to the files, encoded by it and the encrypted files may assume the following appearance:
Remove STOP Ransomware and Restore .DATASTOP Files
If you are aiming at getting rid of this virus, it is important to know that you can follow either the manual or the automatic removal instructions for .DATASTOP files virus below. They have been created with the idea in mind that if the manual removal does not work for your or you feel unconfident in performing the removal, you can also remove this ransomware virus automatically by downloading an advanced anti-malware software, which is what experts often outline as the most effective method. Such software aims to scan your computer and completely clean it from absolutely any intrusive and malicious software while ensuring future protection against such threats as well.
If you want to restore files, that have been encrypted with the added .DATASTOP extension, you are welcome to try the alternative methods in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by .DATASTOP Ransomware”. They may not be 100% effective, but might be able to help you to recover most of your files.
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 .DATASTOP Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .DATASTOP Ransomware 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .DATASTOP Ransomware.
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 .DATASTOP Ransomware 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.
.DATASTOP Ransomware-FAQ
What is .DATASTOP Ransomware Ransomware?
.DATASTOP Ransomware 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.
Can .DATASTOP Ransomware Ransomware Cayse Damage?
Yes, ransomware can damage your computer. Ransomware is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
Should I Ignore Viruses, Like .DATASTOP Ransomware?
No, you should never ignore ransomware. It can encrypt your data and block access to your computer, making it impossible to access your files until you pay a ransom.
Ignoring ransomware could lead to the permanent loss of your data, as well as the potential for the ransomware to spread to other computers on your network. Additionally, paying the ransom does not guarantee that your data will be recovered.
How Does .DATASTOP Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..DATASTOP Ransomware 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.
After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.
Another way you may become a victim of .DATASTOP Ransomware 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 ..DATASTOP Ransomware files?
You can't. At this point, the ..DATASTOP Ransomware files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryptionkey 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 ..DATASTOP Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..DATASTOP Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..DATASTOP Ransomware 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..DATASTOP Ransomware files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like .DATASTOP Ransomware ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts.
What to Do If I Cant Get The Files Back?
There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:
- Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
- Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
- Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
- You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.
More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.
How to 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware 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.
Why Is the Ransom Paid in Crypto?
Cryptocurrency is a secure and untraceable form of payment, making it the ideal choice for ransom payments. It is difficult to trace, and the transactions are almost instantaneous. This means it is nearly impossible for authorities to track the payment and recover the money.
Can 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .DATASTOP Ransomware 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 .DATASTOP Ransomware 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.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.
Good morning Mr…
I was victims of virus ransomeware and all my files was encryptes. Since I read this articles, I tried to following those steps which mentioned above. Unfortunately, I was stagnant and my file still locked or encrypted. Also I have searched software decryptor for .DATASTOPS but I could not find it. Is there any suggestion to unlock or decrypt my files, from you as an expert on cybersecurity maybe you can give suggestion?
Best regards
My laptop was infected by rasomeware and all file was encrypted with extension .DATASTOPS, as expert you might have any ideas or suggestion to solve my problem. I have followed certain steps above but my file still encrypted. Please help me
Best regards
Hello, Mr Nur Rahman.
Currently, there is no official decryption tool available. We from SensorsTechForum suggest that you check out this guide to try restoring some of your data without such a tool:
sensorstechforum.com/restore-files-encrypted-ransomware-without-decryptor/
Best Regards