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Meds Virus (.meds File) – How to Remove + Restore Data

What is the Meds Virus? How to open Meds Virus files? How to remove Meds Virus (STOP Ransomware)? How to try and restore Meds Virus files?

Update October 2019. The Meds virus (.meds file) is the name of a ransomware infection that belongs to the “STOP Ransomware” virus family. The Meds virus (.meds file) aims to enter your computer unnoticed and then encrypt your files and set the Meds virus extension to be added to them. The main idea behind this is for the Meds virus to get you to pay hundreds of dollars in BitCoin. Read this article to learn how to remove Meds virus from your computer and how to try and restore .meds files, encrypted by it.

Threat Summary

Name Meds Virus
Type Ransomware, Cryptovirus
Short Description A virus that is a STOP Ransomware variant. Aims to encrypt your files and extort you into paying ransom to get your files to work.
Symptoms Files have the Meds Virus extension. A ransom note, called _readme.txt is also added.
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 Meds 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.

Meds Virus – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?

The so-called Meds virus also known as .meds ransomware could end up on your computer as a result of being uploaded on software download or torrent download sites and waiting for you to download and execute its files.

Another method via which the Meds virus could end up on your computer is likely by being sent to you as a malicious e-mail attachment. Such attachments are very often met and they often sent to usnsuspecting victims by pretending to be legitimate invoices, receipts or other seemingly important documents.

Once an infection with Meds Virus commences, the virus files of it are dropped on the computers of victims. Among them is the ransom note of this infection, called _readme.txt:

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-514KtsAKtH

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:
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Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
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Our Telegram account:
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Your personal ID:

When the Meds virus infects your computer it also begins to encrypt the files in it. The virus uses AES encryption mode, which generates an assymetric encryption key that makes it very hard to decode files and make them work again. The encryption attacks the following types of files:

  • Documents.
  • Images.
  • Videos.
  • Audio files.
  • Archives.
  • Virtual drive files.
  • Databases.

After encryption, the Meds virus leaves its own file extension to be added to the encoded files.

Not only this, but since it is a variant of STOP Ransomware, the Meds Virus may also use the following commands to delete the shadow copies on the infected computer:

→ 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

This ensures that all of the backups and shadow copies in Windows are permanently deleted.

Remove Meds virus and Try to Restore Files

If you want to remove Meds virus from your computer, we strongly recommend that you read the instructions below and follow the steps. If you want maximum effectiveness and fastest removal, then we strongly recommend that you download and run a scan of your computer by using an advanced malware removal software. Such program has been created with the primary purpose to help victims to remove this ransomware infection in minutes time and ensure that future protection is also guaranteed.

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.

More Posts - Website

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  • Step 1
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Step 4
  • Step 5

Step 1: Scan for Meds Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.


It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.


2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 2


3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 3


4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 4

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide

Step 2: Uninstall Meds 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:


1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.
delete ransomware from windows step 1


2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.
delete ransomware from windows step 2


3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"
delete ransomware from windows step 3Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.


Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Meds 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 Meds Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.
delete ransomware virus registries step 1


2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.
delete ransomware virus registries step 2


3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.
delete ransomware virus registries step 3 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.

IMPORTANT!
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 Meds Virus

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!
We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows Key + R.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 1


2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 2


3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".
remove ransomware in safe mode step 3
Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.


4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 4


5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 5


Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Meds 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:

stop ransomware decryptor step 1

2. Agree with the license terms:

stop ransomware decryptor step 2

3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:

stop ransomware decryptor step 3

4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.

stop ransomware decryptor step 4

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 Meds 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.

1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

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.


Meds Virus-FAQ

What is Meds Virus Ransomware?

Meds 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 Meds 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 Meds Virus Infect?

Via several ways.Meds 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 Meds 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 .Meds Virus files?

You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Meds 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 .Meds Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

Can I Restore ".Meds Virus" Files?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Meds 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 Meds 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 Meds Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Meds 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 Meds 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 Meds Virus Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Meds 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 Meds 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.

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.

18 Comments
  1. Stefany

    Hello,

    I’ve been attacked with the ransomware .meds.
    I have succeeded in getting back my data on the PC,
    and removing it.
    But my problem is that my external hard disks are
    Infected, do you have an idea how to release the files
    that are on the externals ?

    Reply
    1. Milena Dimitrova

      Hi Stefany,

      How did you succeed in getting back your data? Via backup?

      Reply
      1. Stefany

        Yes We have restored the system on the PC.
        But the problem remains in the external hard disks that they were connected to the PC

        Reply
        1. Ventsislav Krastev (Post author)

          Hello Stefany,

          Can you access the external drive? I mean when you connect it to your computer, can you use it like normal, apart from the encrypted files on it.

          Reply
          1. Stefany

            Yes ! The external hard disks are accessible and all files still exist with .meds extension

          2. harry

            hay stefany and ventsislav,

            My computer have been attacked with ransomware .meds too..
            and now, all my files were injected and they change to .meds extension..
            maybe how to decrypt that file was infected with that.

            thank you before

    2. anonymous

      that is mine problem too

      Reply
  2. Sai Karthik

    Bro all are being affected in the same period of time……I have some doubts on this….This can’t be a mere coincidence

    Reply
    1. Milena Dimitrova

      Unfortunately, most ransomware variants today are spread in massive malspam (malicious spam) campaigns. This method ensures the large number of infected victims. Another distribution technique is the use of exploit kits, which also guarantees a massive impact on users.

      Reply
  3. Sai Karthik

    How did u restore data tell me ASAP

    Reply
    1. Ventsislav Krastev (Post author)

      One way to do it is via backup if you have it. Another way is to save your .meds files somewhere else (flash drive, etc.) and wait for researchers to come up with a decryptor. When a decryptor comes out, we will update here: sensorstechforum.com/decrypt-files-stop-ransomware/

      Third way is to try and use the following data recovery tool – sensorstechforum.com/decrypt-files-stop-ransomware/
      but there is little chance it will restore all of the files. But still, you can still try it.

      Reply
  4. TunMin

    Dear bro,

    How tor attack ransomware.meds and getting back your data.
    Looking forward your kindness reply.

    Reply
  5. John Ripper

    I am not able to restore data Help me ASAP

    Reply
  6. Ventsislav Krastev (Post author)

    One way to do it is via backup if you have it. Another way is to save your .meds files somewhere else (flash drive, etc.) and wait for researchers to come up with a decryptor. When a decryptor comes out, we will update here: sensorstechforum.com/decrypt-files-stop-ransomware/

    Third way is to try and use the following data recovery tool – sensorstechforum.com/decrypt-files-stop-ransomware/
    but there is little chance it will restore all of the files. But still, you can still try it.

    Reply
  7. Sheraz Alam

    STOPDecrypter v2.2.0.0
    OS Microsoft Windows NT 6.2.9200.0, .NET Framework Version 4.0.30319.42000
    —————————————-

    No key for ID: AXG1SsHyUPofTPpbtfJYHl9DhtX6pi3HH3daxlFc (.moka )
    No key for ID: PAbgTJXVUc1AJqXP03yXKlnZW2lJ7W9al5G8h3m9 (.meds )
    No key for ID: AXG1SsHyUPofTPpbtfJYHl9DhtX6pi3HH3daxlFc (.mp4 )

    Please help me….i need to recover my PhD research data

    Reply
  8. Rajasimha

    dear sir ,
    my self rajasimha ,yesterday my windows 7 pc have been attacked by .meds ransomware .
    then i installed windows 10 but my files are still in .meds file format ?
    please help me sir,
    my hard drive also have been attacked by .meds ransomware

    Reply
  9. Shark Trager

    jeez. I feel for you guys. My computer was infected as well. Luckily it only contains some documents and letters which I already have made hard copies and some videos downloaded from youtube. I reformat the whole thing.

    Reply
  10. Sinaloa

    hay que asesinar a los hackers y cortarlos en pedacitos, ya existe un movimiento que le esta dando seguimiento, hay que acabar con esos ciberdelincuentes despiadados.

    Reply

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