This article is created to help you remove MOTD ransomware and restore .enc files encrypted by the virus on your computer, if it is infected by this threat.
A ransomware virus using a combination of the AES and RSA ciphers has been detected to encode user files adding the .enc file extension to them and making them no longer openable. The ransomware infection also performs multiple other modification, such as dropping a ransom note, named motd.txt in which the cyber-criminals demand users to send unique ID to their e-mail sook2serit@seznam.cz. Then, the victim is demanded to pay the sum of 2 BTC to get the encrypted files back. In case your computer has been infected by MOTD ransomware, we advise you to focus on reading this article thoroughly.
Threat Summary
| Name |
MOTD |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | This ransomware encrypts files based on RSA and AES ciphers. After this demands a hefty ransom payoff. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions” linking to a web page and a decryptor. Changed file names and the file-extension .enc has been used. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| 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 MOTD. |
| 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. |
MOTD Ransomware – How Does It Spread
For the infection process, this virus may use different distribution techniques. The primary version on which experts are working is spam messages sent out via various e-mail addresses used by spammers. These accounts and e-mail spam are the most effective method of infection with ransomware viruses. They usually either contain a malicious web link, causing the infection via a browser redirect or the most often met case, a malicious archive with the infection file inside, like the example below displays:
As seen above, most of the spammed messages are usually spread along with different deceitful messages that trick inexperienced users to open the attachments which are either executable files or documents with malicious macros enabled.
Other forms of replication also include using malicious downloads, fake update setups and other game cracks, patches and fixes, uploaded on suspicious websites.
MOTD Ransomware – Infection Process
After the user opens a malicious file by MOTD ransomware, the inevitable happens. The virus connects to the following remote host:
→50.56.221.73
After already connected to it, the malware begins to download the payload, which consists of malicious executable and may have multiple other files alongside it. The files may be under different names, for example “motd” and be located in the usually targeted Windows folders:
After this has been done, the ransomware may delete any shadow copies or other backups on the encrypted machine. This is usually achievable by executing the vssadmin command in Windows administrative mode.
After this has been performed, MOTD ransomware may also perform other modifications on the affected computer, such as modify the Windows Registry Entries, by adding values with custom data in them. The most often attacked registry entries are the ones which contain the function to run malicious files on system start-up:
→ 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
MOTD Ransomware – Encryption Process
The encryption process of MOTD is conducted with the assistance of two primary encryption algorithms:
- Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)
- Rivest Shamir Adleman (RSA)
The purpose of the encryption algorithms is to replace data of the original files, more specifically chunks of it with data from the encryption algorithm. The data which is replaced renders the files no longer openable. The encrypted files look like the following:
After encryption is complete, the following ransom message is added to notify the user of the situation:
!WARNING!
YOU ARE INFECTED
WITH THE MOST CRYPTOGRAPHIC ADVANCED RANSOMWARE
All your data of all your users, all your databases and all your Websites are encrypted
Send your UID to e-mail: sook2serit@seznam.cz
YOUR UUID IS: {UNIQUE ID}
!WARNING!
Remove MOTD Ransomware and Restore Encrypted .enc Files
For the removal of MOTD ransomware, we recommend following the removal instructions at the bottom of this article. For maximum effectiveness the malware researching experts recommend using an advanced anti-malware tool which will automatically delete this threat.
For the file restoration, it is advisable to focus on trying out alternative methods, like the ones mentioned in step “2. Restore files encrypted by MOTD” below, since at this point there is no official decryption. We will continue to track the threat and update this article if there is a free decryptor released in the meantime.
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 MOTD with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall MOTD 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 MOTD 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 MOTD 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 MOTD
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by MOTD.
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 MOTD 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.
MOTD-FAQ
What is MOTD Ransomware?
MOTD 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 MOTD 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 MOTD Infect?
Via several ways.MOTD 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 MOTD 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 .MOTD files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .MOTD 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 .MOTD files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".MOTD" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .MOTD 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 MOTD 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 MOTD ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .MOTD 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 MOTD 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 MOTD Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this MOTD 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 MOTD 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.