Ransomware that uses different encryption techniques, named Mobef has been reported to ask ransom money to give infected users access to the files it encrypts on their computers. Unlike other ransomware infections, Mobef may employ the DES encryption algorithm, suggesting that the malware writers behind it wanted to create a virus that is different and less familiar to researchers and users. However, users should know that unlike AES, the DES algorithm is weaker against brute forcing attacks and file decryption may be possible.

Threat Summary
Name | Mobef |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files with the RSA algorithm and AES-128 ciphers and asks a ransom for decryption. |
Symptoms | Files are encrypted and become inaccessible. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a .txt file. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
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 Mobef 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. |

Mobef Ransomware – Distribution
To spread across the web, Mobef is believed to utilize an exploit kit which is quite dangerous. Examples of different exploit kit attacks you may see by visiting the following article. This is why users with non regularly patched software and without experience in browsing and using e-mails safely may be the most likely victims. This may happen via a drive by download when the user has clicked on a malicious web link, such as the one on an example spam e-mail below:

Mobef Ransomware – The Threat In Detail
Once the ransomware has been executed on your computer, it may have the following executables:
- 33.tmp.exe
- Ransom.Mobef.A.exe
- Tmp.exe
Those files may be the executables which encrypt the user data, and this very ransomware may create custom registry entries for them in the following Windows Registry Key:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\
After doing so, upon system boot, Mobef ransomware may begin to encrypt files that are most widely and commonly used. The encrypted data is with a strong AES and a bit outdated DES encryption algorithms. The ransomware is reported by Symantec Researchers to scan for and encrypt files with the following file extensions:
→ .3ds .4db .4dd .7z .7zip .accdb .accdt .aep .aes .ai .alk .arj .axx .bak .bpw .cdr .cer .crp .crt .csv .db .dbf .dbx .der .doc .docm .docx .dot .dotm .dotx .drc .dwfx .dwg .dwk .dxf .eml .enz .fdb .flk .flka .flkb .flkw .flwa .gdb .gho .gpg .gxk .hid .hid2 .idx .ifx .iso .k2p .kdb .kdbx .key .ksd .max .mdb .mdf .mpd .mpp .myo .nba .nbf .nsf .nv2 .odb .odp .ods .odt .ofx .ost .p12 .pdb .pdf .pfx .pgp .ppj .pps .ppsx .ppt .pptx .prproj .psd .pst .psw .qba .qbb .qbo .qbw .qfx .qif .rar .raw .rfp .rpt .rsa .rtf .saj .sdc .sdf .sef .sko .sql .sqlite .sxc .tar .tax .tbl .tc .tib .txt .wdb .xbrl .xls .xlsm .xlsx .xml .zip
Furthermore, Mobef uses a text file to notify the user and may drop it on the user’s desktop. The text file name contains the date of the infection after which the ”-INFECTION” part is added to the name of the file. It contains the following ransom instructions:
→ “YourID: {CUSTOM NUMERICAL USER ID}
PC: {PC NAME}
USER: {USERNAME}
Hey
Your files are now encrypted. I have the key to decrypt them back. I will give you a decrypter if you pay me. Email me at: momsbestfriend@protonmail.com or torrenttracker@india.com
If you don’t get a reply or if both emails die, then contact me using a guaranteed, foolproof
Bitmessage: download it form here https://github.com/mailchuck/PyBitmessage/releases/download/v0.5.8/Bitmessage-
0.5.8.exe
Run it, click New Identity and then send me a message at {BITMESSAGE BITCOIN ADDRESS}
Cheers”Source:Bleeping Computer
Not only this, but the ransomware may change the wallpaper of the infected user with the very same ransom message:
Users who have had their files encrypted report seeing two types of files in the folders where their files were encrypted:
- The ransom note text file.
- A .key file which most likely contains either the public or the private key for the files.

Remove Mobef Ransomware and Restore the Encrypted Files
The removal of Mobef may be rather simple if done via an anti-malware software which will automatically discover the malicious files and remove them. There is also the manual option of finding the malicious .tmp, .exe and other files and deleting them permanently. But then again, you should also make sure to clean up your registry entries.
The decryption of files encoded with DES and AES algorithms is almost impossible, not before a flaw in the code is found. This is why we advise you to follow the step-by-step restoration instructions below that contain alternative methods which go around the direct decryption. In the meantime, you can follow our security forum or updates on our blog in case a free decryption method surfaces.
Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Mobef





Step 2: Uninstall Mobef 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:



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



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: Scan for Mobef with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Mobef.
Ransomware infections and Mobef 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.
Mobef FAQ
What is Mobef Ransomware?
Mobef 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 Mobef Ransomware Damage My Computer?
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. It can encrypt your files and make them inaccessible, preventing you from using your computer or accessing your data. Ransomware can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
Should I Ignore Ransomware, like Mobef?
No, you should never ignore ransomware. Ransomware 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. The best way to protect yourself is to invest in robust cyber security measures, such as backup solutions and anti-malware software.
How Does Mobef Ransomware Infect My Computer?
Via several ways.Mobef 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 Mobef 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 .Mobef files?
You can't. At this point, the .Mobef files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted.
What to Do If Ransomware Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Mobef files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
One way to restore files, encrypted by Mobef ransomware is to use a decryptor for it. But since it's a new virus, be advised that the decryption keys for it may not be out yet and available to the public. We will update this article and keep you posted as soon as this decryptor is released.
Can I Restore ".Mobef" Files (Other Methods)?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Mobef 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 Do I Get Rid of Mobef 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 Mobef ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Mobef files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like Mobef ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts. Scanning your computer with anti-malware software will make sure that all of these virus components are removed and your computer is protected in the future.
What to Do If I Cannot Recover Ransomware Encrypted Files?
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 it can be re-downloaded from the web.
-Another clever way to get back some of your files 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 Prevent Mobef 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. In addition, it is also important to keep your passwords secure and to avoid visiting websites or downloading applications from untrusted sources. Finally, ensure you have adequate backup and recovery procedures in place to restore your system to its pre-attack state, should a ransomware attack occur.
Can Mobef 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. This means that if a user is infected with ransomware, their data can be stolen and held for ransom. It is important to be aware of this threat and take precautions to protect yourself and your data.
Can Ransomware Affect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can affect 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 to 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 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, 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 Mobef Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Mobef 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 Mobef 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.
References
1. How to Recognize Spam Emails with Ransomware
2. How Does Ransomware Encryption Work?
3. How to Decrypt Ransomware Files
4. Ransomware Getting Greedier and Bigger, Attacks Increase by 40%
5. 1 in 5 Americans Victim of Ransomware
Attention! SensorsTechForum strongly recommends that all malware victims should look for assistance only by reputable sources. Many guides out there claim to offer free recovery and decryption for files encrypted by ransomware viruses. Be advised that some of them may only be after your money.
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.