How to remove VIPxxx Ransomware and decrypt .VIPxxx files

What is VIPxxx Ransomware

VIPxxx Ransomware is a severe type of malware designed to deprive users of access to their data by encrypting files on compromised systems. Victims of this ransomware find their files renamed, with extensions altered to include a unique identifier, an appended email address, and the suffix .VIPxxx. For instance, a file initially named document.jpg might appear as document.jpg.[ID-123456].[cmd_bad@keemail.me].VIPxxx post-attack. The encryption is sophisticated, typically employing strong cryptographic algorithms that render files completely inaccessible without a specific decryption key. This encryption method is often irreversible without cooperation from the perpetrators, who are the only holders of decryption credentials. Accompanying this malicious activity is a ransom note, commonly named RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt. This file is strategically placed in each folder containing encrypted files, serving as a communication channel between the attackers and their victims. The note coerces users to contact the cybercriminals, often suggesting that only they can provide the necessary decryption tools in exchange for a cryptocurrency payment.

Despite the aggressive tactics of VIPxxx Ransomware, there are decryption possibilities available, which could potentially spare victims from succumbing to ransom demands. Avast has developed and updated their Prometheus decryptor, which is capable of addressing the encryption applied by VIPxxx. This presents a legitimate, albeit sometimes partial, solution for users seeking to regain access to their files without financially engaging with the attackers. Victims seeking to decrypt their .VIPxxx files should first try using this decryptor tool to see if their specific situation is covered. However, it is imperative to act quickly when dealing with ransomware. Early detection and isolation of affected systems can prevent further damage. Moreover, having strong anti-malware protections alongside regular and comprehensive data backups is an essential preventive measure. Such strategies can significantly mitigate the risks associated with ransomware attacks and reduce reliance on decryptors, ultimately fostering a more resilient security posture.

How VIPxxx Ransomware infects computers

VIPxxx Ransomware primarily infiltrates computers through deceptive methods often employed by cybercriminals. One common vector is malspam campaigns, where emails containing malicious attachments or links are sent to unsuspecting users. These emails typically masquerade as legitimate communications, tricking users into opening infected Microsoft Office documents, PDFs, or executable files. Additionally, VIPxxx can spread through fake software updates and untrusted download sources, exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software. The ransomware may also be bundled with illegal software activation tools, commonly referred to as “cracks,” which, instead of activating software, install malicious programs. Once the ransomware is executed, it encrypts files on the system, appending a unique extension, and demands a ransom for their decryption, leaving victims with inaccessible data.

1. Download VIPxxx Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .VIPxxx 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 VIPxxx Ransomware

VIPxxx Ransomware files:


RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt
{randomname}.exe


VIPxxx Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .VIPxxx files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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