How to remove Core (Makop) Ransomware and decrypt .core files

What is Core (Makop) Ransomware

Core (Makop) Ransomware is a highly disruptive form of malware belonging to the Makop ransomware family. It specifically targets data encryption, rendering victims’ files inaccessible unless a ransom is paid. Upon infection, the ransomware encrypts the victim’s files using complex encryption algorithms, appending each file with a unique identifier, the threat actors’ email address, and a .core extension, such as transforming example.jpg into example.jpg.[unique-ID].[email].core. Accompanying this malicious transformation, the ransomware leaves behind a ransom note in a text file named +README-WARNING+.txt on the victim’s desktop. This note warns users that trying to decrypt their data through any means other than with the attackers’ assistance could lead to irreversible data loss. Victims are instructed to contact the attackers via email to receive instructions, with a strong emphasis on the futility and potential risk of alternative decryption attempts.

Unfortunately, as of the current landscape in ransomware removals, there are no known decryption tools available for Core (Makop) Ransomware that can effectively restore the encrypted files without the original keys held by the cybercriminals. This particular ransomware employs robust cryptographic methods, typically seen in sophisticated ransomware campaigns, making decryption practically impossible without the decryption key. To decrypt .core files, users must ideally rely on secure backups kept prior to the infection, as fringe methods often posed by dubious third-party services may lead to scams or further data corruption. Prevention remains crucial, emphasizing the importance of up-to-date antivirus software and cautious behavior online to avoid ransomware infections. In the unfortunate event of an infection, it’s imperative to refrain from yielding to ransom demands, which not only encourages further criminal activity but also fails to guarantee data retrieval.

How Core (Makop) Ransomware infects computers

Core (Makop) Ransomware, like many other ransomware variants, primarily infects computers through phishing and social engineering tactics. It often arrives disguised as legitimate files or bundled with software downloads from unofficial sources, making unsuspecting users more likely to open or execute the malicious payload. Common vectors include email attachments containing macros, malicious links, or files downloaded from peer-to-peer networks and suspicious websites. Once executed, the ransomware exploits vulnerabilities in the system or user behavior to install itself and begin encrypting files. Additionally, some variants may spread through network shares and removable drives, further facilitating its proliferation across connected devices. Users are advised to maintain updated security software and exercise caution with unsolicited emails and downloads to mitigate the risk of infection.

1. Download Core (Makop) Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .core files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like Core (Makop) Ransomware

Core (Makop) Ransomware files:


+README-WARNING+.txt
{randomname}.exe


Core (Makop) Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .core files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .core files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .core files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with Core (Makop) Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .core files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like Core (Makop) Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. Core (Makop) Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro