How to remove Moon Ransomware and decrypt .moon files

What is Moon Ransomware

Moon Ransomware is a sophisticated strain of malicious software that targets computer systems to encrypt user data, rendering it inaccessible. This ransomware specifically appends a unique identifier followed by the .moon extension to affected files, thus complicating attempts to open or use these files without the proper decryption keys. For example, a file named document.docx could be altered to document.docx.{unique_identifier}.moon. This pattern disrupts the file structure, making it clear when files have been compromised. The encryption method employed by Moon Ransomware is highly secure, often based on strong cryptographic algorithms that are nearly impossible to break without specific keys held by the attackers. Once encryption is completed, the ransomware generates a ransom note titled README.txt and typically places it in directories where encrypted files reside, as well as on the desktop for high visibility. This note explains the ransom demand, the method of payment (usually in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin), and provides contact information for the attackers while discouraging victims from using third-party decryption tools by threatening permanent data loss or increased ransom fees.

Unfortunately, no guaranteed decryption tools are currently available for Moon Ransomware victims unless specific errors in the malware’s code can be exploited by cybersecurity experts. To decrypt .moon files, the typical approach would involve either paying the ransom (not recommended due to the lack of assurance from cybercriminals and to not fund illegal activities) or recovering data from backups that exist prior to the infection. Experts consistently advise maintaining offline or cloud-based backups as a preventive measure against such attacks. In the rare case where a vulnerability is identified in the ransomware’s encryption scheme, tools might become available through reputable cybersecurity sources such as the No More Ransom Project. It is crucial to prevent further encryption by isolating the infected device from the network and immediately deploying trusted antivirus software to remove the ransomware from the system entirely. This approach should be complemented by consulting with cybersecurity professionals for possible remediation steps.

How Moon Ransomware infects computers

Moon Ransomware typically infiltrates computers through a variety of deceptive tactics that prey on the unsuspecting user. One common method is via phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links, often disguised as legitimate documents from trusted sources. Once opened, these attachments can execute scripts that download the ransomware onto the system. Additionally, Moon Ransomware can be distributed through compromised websites that host malicious ads or exploit kits designed to take advantage of vulnerabilities in outdated software. Users who download pirated software or use third-party downloaders are also at risk, as these can serve as vectors for the ransomware. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to maintain updated security software, exercise caution with email attachments, and ensure all software, including operating systems, are regularly updated to patch known vulnerabilities.

1. Download Moon Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .moon 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 Moon Ransomware

Moon Ransomware files:


README.txt
{randomname}.exe


Moon Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .moon files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .moon 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 .moon 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 Moon 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 .moon 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 Moon 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. Moon 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