Guide to remove Mogera ransomware

The sibling of Djvu and STOP viruses, Mogera ransomware is complex malware form. It stealthily infiltrates the system and drops the malicious applications on the targeted computer. Once the malicious software is successfully installed in the affected system, it then starts the encryption process.

This malicious crypto virus infects the personal documents found on the system. Once the files are corrupted, the Mogera extension is attached to them. Hence, the files become inaccessible. You can only restore the file after paying the asked amount in bitcoins.

Threat Summary

Understanding Mogera Ransomware

Belonging to the Djvu virus family, Mogera ransomware secretly infiltrates your system. This complex malware is capable of performing various malicious activities. Once, this ransomware succeeds in infiltrating the system, it encrypts the file extensions. The targeted file extensions are commonly found on every PC these days. .docx, .ppt, .pdf, .jepg, .mp3, .doc, .txt are a few mentions.

The encrypted files end up with .morega extension attached to them. This additional extension makes the corrupted files unusable. It uses the powerful encryption algorithm and creates a unique decryption key on the remote server. This key is only exchanged for large amount of ransom demanded in the form of Bitcoins.

In addition, a text document named ‘readme.txt’ is created in every folder containing the encrypted files. This document presents, all the information required to obtain the decryption key to open the locked files.

Threat Behavior

The strong and powerful encryption algorithm which is used by Mogera ransomware is either AES or RSA. After the successful encryption of the files, the nasty malware creates a unique code for every locked file.

Scroll down to understand the high-risk behavior of Mogera ransomware:

• Symptoms

The locked files, is the biggest symptom of this ransomware. Once, the files are encrypted you can no longer use the targeted files. However, if you try to access the locked files, the ransomware will display a ransom – demanding message on your screen.

• Ransom Note

The ransom note is stored in a text document named ‘readme.txt’. This document is generated in every folder containing the encrypted files. This document has all the information on how to get the decryption key. Moreover, it presents the information to contact the cyber crooks.

Ransom – Demanding Message:

• Ransom Demanded

The large amount of ransom is demanded by the cyber crooks to provide the decryption key. A sum of $980 is asked in the form of bitcoins by the victim users. On the other hand, if the victim contacts the hackers within three days of Mogera ransomware attack, the ransom is reduced to half. In such case, the victim is bound to pay $490 in bitcoins to get the decryption key.

• Targeted Files

The files which are targeted by the malicious Mogera ransomware are commonly found on computers these days. Generally, your personal documents are targeted by this crypto virus. This malware targets the following file extensions:

1. Document Files (.docx, .doc, .txt, .pdf, .ppt, .odt, .htm)
2. Images (.jpeg, .png, .gif, .raw, .jpg)
3. Audio Files (.mp3, .aif, .mpa, .wma, .mov, .avi, .m3u)
4. Video Files (.3gp, .mpeg, .flv, .mpg, .vob, .wmv)

Distribution Techniques

Currently, the gateway of the malicious Mogera ransomware is unknown. At times, this ransomware exploit vulnerabilities in the operating system and installed software or third party software. Apart from this, the malicious ransomwares, also attack victims by hacking Remote Desktop Services (RDP).

However, the most common way is via spam e-mails containing infected attachments. Cyber criminals, send these spam e-mails with a catchy subject line. The forged header information is to make the user believe that it is from some shipping company. The major aim is to trap the user in the trick of extorting money.

The e-mail informs you about an undelivered package or a shipment that you made. Hence, as soon as you open the link, the destructive Mogera ransomware infiltrates your system.

Once the system is affected, it immediately targets the personal documents on the system. This ransomware encrypts the files by creating a unique key. This key can only be obtained if the payment in bitcoins is made.

Therefore, the victim found himself in a puzzled situation about whether to pay the ransom or not! Users, keep in mind that even paying the ransom does not guarantee the decryption. It has been observed that, these cyber crooks ignore the victim after receiving the ransom amount.

Hence, instead of funding these hackers focus on how to get rid of ransomware. If your system gets infiltrated, you can try the following steps to delete Mogera ransomware:

Removal guidelines for Mogera ransomware

STEP A: Reboot system to safe mode

If the most basic step failed to remove the ransomware from your system, you can try the next step.

STEP B: Delete suspicious file in system Configuration settings

1. Type “Msconfig” in search box / Run Box, select it and press Enter.
2. Click on “Services” Tab and click on “Hide all Microsoft services”.
3. Select Mogera Ransomware from the list of remaining services and disable it by removing the tick mark from the checkbox and click on Apply button.

If the configuration did not work, try deleting the suspicious file using Command Prompt.

STEP C: Delete the suspicious file using Command Prompt

Once the system starts, ensure to use an account with administrative privilege to access Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

After the user enters admin credentials, Command prompt window is displayed wherein you are entitled to enter the below commands:

1. Type the command “sc delete Mogera Ransomware” in the command prompt and press Enter.
2. Type “exit” to exit the command prompt and restart the system in safe mode with command prompt.

If the malicious file still remains in your system, you have to try the ultimate step.

STEP D: Restore system Files and Folders

Restore your system files and settings

Tips to prevent your system from Mogera ransomware

1. Keeping the Operating System Updated- In order to remain protected and avoid such infections, it is recommended to keep your Operating System updated by enabling the automatic update on your system. The systems with outdated or older versions of Operating System become an easy target for the attackers.
2. Resist clicking on spam emails – One of the major techniques used for malware distribution is forwarding spam emails to the user. The system gets infected as soon as the user clicks on the attachment. These mails appear to be genuine, so be aware and resist falling for these tricks.
3. Keep an eye on third party installations- It is quite important that you take due care while installing any third party applications for they are major source of such infections. Such malware programs come bundled with the free applications thereby requiring the user to remain cautious.
4. Regular periodical backup- In order to keep your data and files safe, it is recommended to take regular back up of all your data and files either on an external drive or cloud.
5. Use Anti-Virus Protection- We strongly recommend the use of antivirus protection/internet security in your PC like Vipre and Hitman so that it remains safe.
6. Enable the Ad Blocker/Popup Blocker in your browser- Enabling the popup blocker/ ad blocker in your chosen browser will help you to stay protected from annoying adware.

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