Remove MARK ransomware

MARK ransomware is a file-encrypting malware that belongs to the Makop ransomware family. These types of infections take files hostage by encrypting them and demanding a payment for their recovery. Unfortunately, encrypted files will not be openable unless they’re first put through a decryptor. This ransomware can be identified by the extension it adds to encrypted files, specifically .[decsupp24@tuta.io].MARK. The extension also includes your unique ID, which the malicious actors operating this ransomware are supposed to use to identify you if you decide to pay the requested ransom.

 

 

Unfortunately, this ransomware begins file encryption as soon as it is initiated. MARK ransomware is part of the Makop ransomware family and is recognized by the unique file extension it adds to encrypted files. This extension follows the format: .[unique ID].[decsupp24@tuta.io].MARK. Each victim receives a unique ID, allowing cybercriminals to differentiate between the victims who pay the ransoms. For instance, a 1.txt file would be renamed to 1.txt.[unique ID].[decsupp24@tuta.io].MARK upon encryption. Unfortunately, files with this extension become inaccessible. This ransomware targets a wide range of file types, including documents and photos, essentially anything that victims might want to recover or keep private.

The ransomware drops a +README-WARNING+.txt ransom note once it’s done encrypting files. It also changes the background. This note informs the victim about the encryption of their files and the next steps they can take if they want to recover their files. The perpetrators demand a ransom for a decryption tool, and while the ransom amount isn’t specified, it is likely to be in the several-thousand-dollar range. The malicious actors offer to decrypt two files for free as a guarantee that they have a working decryptor.

The full MARK ransomware ransom note is below:

::: Greetings :::

DO NOT TRY TO CONTACT MIDDLEMAN OR ANY INTERMEDIARI THEY DONT HAVE THE ABBILITY TO RETURN YOUR FILES AND MOST LIKELY YOU WILL GET SCAMMED
OR THEY WILL CHARGE THEIR FEE AND OUR FEE SO THINK THIS AS DOUBLE PRICE!
ONLY US HAVE THE ABBILITY TO GET YOUR FILES BACK

Little FAQ:

.1.
Q: Whats Happen?
A: Your files have been encrypted. The file structure was not damaged, we did everything possible so that this could not happen.

.2.
Q: How to recover files?
A: If you wish to decrypt your files you will need to pay us in Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency of our choice.

.3.
Q: What about guarantees?
A: This is just a business. We absolutely do not care about you and your deals, except getting benefits. If we do not do our work and liabilities – nobody will cooperate with us. Its not in our interests.
To check the ability of returning files, you can send to us any 2 files with SIMPLE extensions(jpg,xls,doc, etc… not databases!) and low sizes(max 1 mb), we will decrypt them and send back to you. That is our guarantee.

.4.
Q: How to contact with you?
A: You can write us to our mailboxes: decsupp24@tuta.io
In case not answer in 24 hours: decsupp247@outlook.com
Our telegram: hxxps://t.me/decsupport24
.5.
Q: How will the decryption process proceed after payment?
A: After payment we will send to you our scanner-decoder program and detailed instructions for use. With this program you will be able to decrypt all your encrypted files.

.6.
Q: If I don’t want to pay bad people like you?
A: If you will not cooperate with our service – for us, its does not matter. But you will lose your time and data, cause only we have the private key. In practice – time is much more valuable than money.

:::BEWARE:::
DON’T try to change encrypted files by yourself!
If you will try to use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions – please make a backup for all encrypted files!
Any changes in encrypted files may entail damage of the private key and, as result, the loss all data.

When dealing with ransomware, it’s typically advised not to pay the ransom or even engage with the ransomware operators for several reasons. Firstly, there’s no guarantee that payment will actually lead to receiving a decryption tool; victims are essentially at the mercy of criminals who have no legal obligation to assist victims once payment is made. Additionally, any money given to them will go towards funding their future illegal activities.

For those with backups, recovery of files can begin as soon as they successfully remove MARK ransomware from their systems. However, it’s very important to ensure the ransomware is completely removed before accessing these backups. If backups are accessed while the ransomware is still present, those files may also become encrypted. To fully and safely get rid of it, users should use an anti-malware program to remove MARK ransomware.

How does ransomware enter computers?

It’s important to stress that poor online habits often contribute to malware infections. Users who have or develop safer online habits are far less likely to encounter malware, making it vital to develop better habits to prevent future infections. Being aware of how malware spreads is also very important.

Having to ability to recognize malicious emails is particularly important, especially if your email address has been leaked, as this is a common method for malware distribution. Most commonly, malicious emails are disguised as order confirmations, delivery notices, etc., as these types of emails tend to get users to interact with them. Fortunately, unless targeted specifically, most malicious emails tend to be generic and can be spotted through noticeable grammar and spelling mistakes. Additionally, generic words like “User,” “Member,” or “Customer” used to address you could indicate a spam or potentially harmful email. Reputable companies typically personalize their correspondence with the recipient’s name, while malicious actors often use generic words because they do not have access to personal information.

It’s also worth noting that more sophisticated and tailored malicious emails usually have no errors, provide credible information, and directly address recipients by name. To protect yourself against these threats, you should always scan unsolicited email attachments with anti-malware software or VirusTotal.

Another very commonly used method for malware distribution is torrents. It’s no secret that many torrent sites are poorly moderated, which allows malware-laden torrents to be uploaded regularly. Often, malware is bundled with torrents for content such as movies, TV shows, and video games. Downloading copyrighted content via torrents is not only content theft, but it also poses risks to your computer’s security.

How to remove MARK ransomware

Attempting to manually remove MARK ransomware is not recommended, as it may cause additional problems for your computer. Ransomware is a complex form of malware and requires the use of professional anti-malware tools for effective removal. Trying to deal with it on your own could lead to even greater damage. If you have a backup, do not connect to it until you completely remove MARK ransomware from your system.