Clop: What does it mean?
Jakub Kraustek discovered Clop, a ransomware-type malware. This malware can encrypt files and rename them by adding the ” .Clop” extension. For example, ” Sample.jpg” gets renamed ” Sample.jpg.Clop“. Clop creates a text file (” ClopReadMe.txt“) after successful encryption and places one copy in each existing folder.
The ransom-demand message is included in the text file. This ransomware has been updated to add ” .Clip” and drop a ransom note titled ” README_README.txt“.
Cybercriminals generally state that encrypted files are their property and that they can restore them. This information is inaccurate, unfortunately. Clop may use symmetric, or asymmetric cryptography. Each victim is issued a unique decryption code that allows them to retrieve their data.
Cybercriminals have access to all keys stored on remote servers. To receive a decryption or decrypter with a key embedded in it, each victim must pay the ransom. They will first need to contact the cyber criminals via one of the email addresses.
The text file does not include the cost and details are sent via email. This is because the victim’s decision to contact the police depends on the speed at which they make contact. The cost of most cases is between $500 and $1500 in Bitcoins or Ethereum, Monero, DASH, or any other cryptocurrency.
Victims may also attach files up to 5MB each without any “useful information”, which can then be decrypted and returned to them as a guarantee that cybercriminals are trustworthy. Do not pay any ransom, no matter how high the price. Research has shown that ransomware developers often ignore victims once they have received their payments.
We strongly recommend that you ignore any requests to reach these people or to pay ransoms. There are no tools that can crack Clop encryption or restore data for free. You can only restore everything from a backup.
Screenshot of a message asking users to pay ransom to decrypt their data
There are many ransomware-type viruses on the internet that look similar to Clop. These include Pluto and FileSlack. CryCipher and Magnolia. These viruses can also encrypt data and demand ransom money, just like Clop.
Ransomware infections of this nature typically only have two main differences: the ransom amount and the encryption algorithm used. Most use algorithms that generate unique decryption keys.
It is therefore impossible to decrypt data without developers’ involvement (not recommended).
We strongly recommend that you keep regular backups and store them on a remote server, such as the Cloud, or an unplugged storage device, such as a Flash drive, external hard disk, or similar. Backups that are stored locally are often encrypted with regular software.
What is ransomware and how did it infect my computer
Clop is not known how developers spread it. In most cases, however, criminals use trojans, fake updaters cracks, cracks, and unofficial software download sources. Trojans are malicious programs that inject additional malware into your system once they have been infiltrated.
Fake software updates can infect computers by exploiting old software bugs/flaws, or simply downloading malware and installing it instead of the promised updates. Users often download viruses rather than installing paid features. Cracks allow users to activate paid software for free.
Third-party software download sites are used to disguise malicious executables and legitimate software. This tricked users into installing malware.
Spam emails spread viruses via malicious attachments. Many thousands of spam emails are sent by criminals, encouraging people to click on attached files/links. However, this can lead to malware infection.
How can you protect yourself against ransomware infections?
Computer safety starts with caution. Computer infections are most often caused by inexperienced or careless behavior. When browsing the internet and downloading, installing, or updating software, be attentive. Be careful when opening attachments in email.
If the file/link does not concern you and the sender’s email address seems suspicious/unrecognizable, do not open anything. You should only download apps from official sources, and not via direct download links. Third-party downloaders/installers often proliferate malicious apps, and thus these tools should not be used. Software updates are also subject to the same rules.
It is essential to keep your installed applications (and other operating systems) current. However, you should only do this by using the implemented functions or tools provided by the official developer.
Two reasons why you should never use software cracking tools: 1. You can steal software from developers and 2. There is a high chance of computer infection because these tools are frequently used to spread malware.
Finally, have a reputable anti-virus/anti-spyware suite installed and running since these tools can detect and eliminate malware before any damage is done. To eliminate Clop from your computer, we recommend that you run a scan