How to remove Makop ransomware and prevent further file encryption?

What kind of malware is Makop?

Makop is a type of malware categorized as ransomware. It operates by encrypting data of infected systems and demanding payment for decryption tools/software. During the encryption process, all affected files are renamed according to this pattern: original filename, unique ID, cyber criminals' email address and the ".makop extension.

For example, a file named "1.jpg" would appear as something like "1.jpg.[EF7BE7BC].[makop@airmail.cc].makop", and so on. After this process is finished, a text file named "readme-warning.txt" is created on the desktop.

Screenshot of files encrypted by Makop ransomware:

Makop ransomware in detail

The text file contains the ransom message, which clarifies that the victim's data has not been damaged, but was encrypted. According to the message, the only way to recover the compromised files is to purchase decryption tools from the developers of Makop ransomware.

To receive further instruction, the message instructs people to establish contact with the criminals via email. Prior to paying, victims can test decryption by sending up to two small files (no larger than 1 MB each). These test files cannot contain valuable information such as databases.

Formats such as .jpg, .xls and .doc are given as examples of which files can be used for this purpose. The size of the ransom is not stated, however, the Bitcoin cryptocurrency is stipulated for payments. Following payment, users are promised that they will receive decryption tools/software and instructions about how to use them.

The message ends with warnings that modifying the encrypted files in any way, attempting to decrypt them with third party software, or running anti-virus programs can result in permanent data loss. It therefore recommends making copies of the files before trying any of the aforementioned actions.

More information about ransomware

In most cases of ransomware infections, decryption is impossible without the involvement of the malware developers, unless the malicious program is still in development and/or has certain bugs/flaws. Regardless, do not communicate with or meet the demands of cyber criminals.

These individuals cannot be trusted. Despite paying, victims do not receive the necessary tools/software to decrypt their data. Therefore, their files remain encrypted and useless, and they experience significant financial loss. To prevent Makop from further encryption, it must be removed from the operating system.

Unfortunately, removal will not restore already affected data. The only solution is to recover files from a backup, if one was made before the infection and was stored in a separate location.

Ransomware in general

Ransomware is designed to encrypt files and demand ransom payments for decryption. TRSomware Is Back, Ragnarok, PRT and Devos are some examples of these malicious programs, however, there are several key differences: the cryptographic algorithm they use (symmetric or asymmetric) and ransom size.

The ransom sums tend to range between three and four digits (in USD). Cyber criminals prefer digital currencies (mainly, cryptocurrencies), since these transactions are difficult/impossible to trace. To protect your data from these infections, keep backups on remote servers and/or unplugged storage devices (ideally, in multiple locations).

How did ransomware infect my computer?

Ransomware and other malware is primarily spread via spam campaigns, Trojans, software "cracking" (activation) tools, fake updaters and untrusted download channels. "Spam campaign" is a term used to define the act of sending deceptive/scam emails on a large scale. This mail is usually disguised as "official", "priority", "important" or similar.

These messages have infectious files attached to, or linked inside. The dangerous files can be in various formats (e.g. executable and archive files, PDF and Microsoft Office documents, JavaScript, etc.). When they are opened, the infection is started (i.e., they begin download/installation of malware).

Trojans are malicious programs capable of causing chain infections. Rather than activating licensed products, illegal activation ("cracking") tools can download/install malicious software. Rogue updaters infect systems by exploiting flaws present in outdated programs and/or simply by installing malware rather than the promised updates.

Malicious content is often downloaded from untrusted download sources such as unofficial and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks (BitTorrent, Gnutella, eMule, etc.) and other third party downloaders.

How to protect yourself from ransomware infections

Do not open unknown, suspicious or irrelevant emails. Any attachments or links present in dubious messages must never be opened, as doing so can lead to an infection. All downloads should be performed from official and verified download channels. Use tools/functions provided by genuine developers to activate and update programs.

Illegal activation tools ("cracks") and third party updaters carry a high risk of malware installation, and therefore should be avoided. Have reputable anti-virus/anti-spyware software installed. This must be kept up to date and used to perform regular system scans and for the removal of detected/potential threats.

If your computer is already infected with Makop, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.

Screenshot of a message encouraging users to pay a ransom to decrypt their compromised data:

Text presented in Makop ransomware text file ("readme-warning.txt"):

::: Greetings :::

Little FAQ:
.1.
Q: Whats Happen?
A: Your files have been encrypted and now have the "makop" extension. 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 in bitcoins.

.3.
Q: What about guarantees?
A: Its 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 mailbox: makop@airmail.cc

.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 donít 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.

Update 24 March 2020 - Cyber criminals have recently released yet another variant of Makop ransomware, which drops a different ransom message and appends filenames only with the victim's unique ID and the ".makop" extension (e.g., "1.jpg" is renamed to "1.jpg.[E38D7F03-W].makop" and so on).

Screenshot of the updated Makop ransomware text file ("readme-warning.txt"):

Text presented within this file:

Dear customer We apologize for having to encrypt your
files.
It’s not your fault, because your security system is
built at a good level, but during the attack we used
unique exploits designed for vulnerabilities in
microsoft software and antiviruses, which completely
does not depend on how well your security system is
built.

Encryption algorithm:
Master key: RSA-2048, the public key is stored in the
body of ransomwsre,
private is not available (the master key is individual
for each
companyes, only used to create decrypt software)
Session key: RSA-512, private key not available
(Session
individual key for each attacked PC, private
The session key is encrypted with a Master key and is
stored in the body of each
encrypted file, as well as the public Session key)
File key: AES-256 / CBC: individual for each file,
encrypted with a Session key and sewn into the body of
each encrypted file.

We strongly recommend that you do not use third-party
software to decrypt your files, as this can lead to
the final loss of files due to corrupted headers. But
if you still want to try to decrypt your files
yourself, then make sure that you back up all
encrypted files.
You can familiarize yourself with our product on the
following reputable site:
hxxps://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/712395/oled-makop-ransonware-makop-support-topic/

In no case do we extort money from you, we only offer
you our services for decrypting your files + you can
get a bonus in the form of a free audit of your
security system in order to protect yourself from such
attacks and malicious software in the future.

You can contact us by email: established01@protonmail.com

In the subject line, indicate your personal ID number,
which is indicated in the name of your files.
If you do not receive a response after 6 hours, then
resend the message to our backup email:
fargodrops@cock.li

Screenshot of files encrypted by this Makop ransomware variant:

Appearance of another variant of the Makop ransomware ransom message, which targets Turkish-speaking users:

Text presented within this file:

Sisteminizde Onemli Gordugumuz Verilerinizi Sifreledik. Bilindik Veri Kurtarma Yontemleri ile Verilerinizi Geri Getiremeyeceginizi Bilmenizi isteriz.

Bu Yontemler Sadece Sizin icin Vakit Kaybi Olacaktir.

1-) Son Zamanlarda Bazi Meslektaslarimiz Utanarak ve Uzulerek Soylemek isterimki Para Almalarina Ragmen Dosyalari Acmiyor Bozuk Aciyorlar ve Tekrar Para istiyorlar
Biz Onlardan Degiliz Yaklasik Olarak 6 Senedir Bu isi Yapiyoruz ve Binlerce Referansa Sahibiz Guven Konusunda Size Bildirecegimiz Referans Firmalari Arayarak Daha Once
Tarafimizdan Hacklendiginive Odemeden Sonra Sorunsuz Olarak Verilerini Aldigini Teyit Edebilirsiniz.

2 -) Bir Diger Sorun ise Son Zamanlarda Data Kurtarma Firmalarina Bilgisayarcilariniza Gonderdiginiz Serverlari istedikleri Rakama Vermedigimiz Takdirde Musteriye Yani Size Dosyalarin Kurtulmayacagini
Odeme Yapsaniz Dahi Acmayacagimizi Soyleyebiliyorlar veya Sozlesme Yaptiginiz Bilgisayarcinin Sorumlulugunda Olan Rakami Bilgisayarci Bilgi islem Elemani vs. vs. Rakami Odemeyemeyince ve Odemek istemediginde
Hardiski Tornavidayla Bozarak Sorunun Donanimsal Oldugunu Soyleyebiliyorlar.

3-) Yukarida Bahsettigim Sorunlari Yasamamak Adina Fake Mailler Acarak Bize Mail Atmayiniz Cevap Vermiyoruz Firma Mailleri Disindan Gelen Hic bir Mail Cevaplanmamaktadir.

4- ) Sizi Tanimiyorum, Dolayisiyla Size Karsi Kotu Duygular Beslememin Size Kotuluk Yapmamin Bir Anlamida Yok Amacim Sadece Bu isten Bir Gelir Elde Etmek. Yaptiginiz Odeme Sonrasinda
En Kisa Zamanda Verilerinizi Eski Haline Getirmek icin Sunucunuza Baglanacagim.

Assagidaki Referans Kodunuzla Birlikte Verilerinizi Almak isterseniz Lutfen SAAT 10:00 a Kadar Mail Atiniz

Yinede Veri Kurtarma Firmalari ve Programlari Denemek isterseniz Lutfen Dosyalarin Asli uzerinde Degil Bir Yere Kopyalayip Onlar Uzerinde Deneme Yapiniz

Saat 10:00' a Kadar Donus Yapilmadigi Takdirde Sistemde Anahtar Kodlariniz Saklanmayacak Otomatik Olarak Silinecektir Gec Bile Gormus Olsaniz Bu Notu Uzulerek Soylemeliyimki Mail Atmayiniz.
Cunku Yardimci Olamayacagim

Bunun Yaninda Bilmek istediginiz Bazi Konulara Deginmek isterim

MAiL ADRESiMiZ

verilerimialmakistiyorum@inbox.ru

Screenshot of files encrypted by this Makop ransomware variant:

Update 7 July 2020 - Cyber criminals have recently released an updated variant of Makop ransomware. This version appends filenames with a random string, delivers a different ransom message, and the website is also updated.

Screenshot of this Makop ransomware variant text file:

Text presented within:

Dear user! Your computer is encrypted! We demand a ransom!
Decryption service is paid !!!! PAYMENT FOR BITCOIN !!!
Also from your servers files, documents, databases SQL, PDF were uploaded to our cloud storage
After we agree, you will receive a decryption program, valuable advice in order not to fall into this situation in the future, as well as all your files on our server will be deleted.
Otherwise, they will fall into the open access of the Internet!
Use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions will result in a loose of data.
Please be sure that we will find common languge. We will restore all the data and give you recommedations how to configure the protection of your server.

COMMUNICATION METHOD:
To decrypt your computer, you need to download the TOR browser at hxxps://www.torproject.org/download/
Install it and visit our website for further action hxxp://paymen45oxzpnouz.onion/E38D7F03

Screenshot of a website provided by this Makop ransomware variant:

Text presented within:

What happened
Your local network has been hacked

Your documents, photos, databases and other important files are encrypted

To decrypt your files you need to contact us via chat. We demand a ransom!

You can do it right now. Use chat bellow. But remember that you do not have much time
Contact with support
-
We have received your details.
If you are serious about decrypting your data, then pay via BTC (bitcoin) for activation CHAT with our support. You can discuss the repurchase price with support only in chat. The paid chat activation cost will be included in the total cost of the ransom. And enter your details in the form below
The amount: $250 (summ in bitcoin 0.02691) to address:
1payR2iTeDo47qeuhb8QazdApyohNhAdT
You is ...
Home Small company Big company
How many computers were attacked
1 (one) 2-5 6-20 over 20
Information about encrypted data
Information
Buy Bitcoins with Bank Account or Bank Transfer
 Coinmama Korbit Coinfloor Coinfinity BitPanda BTCDirect Paymium Bity CoinCorner HappyCoins Coinbase
 * Don't use Coinbase if you're in USA Bitfinex Poloniex

Buy Bitcoin with Credit/Debit Card
CEX.io CoinMama Huobi Bittylicious BitPanda CoinCafe Coinhouse Safello

Buy Bitcoins with Cash or Cash Deposit
LocalBitcoins BitQuick Wall of Coins LibertyX Bitit Coin ATM Radar

Screenshot of files encrypted by this Makop ransomware variant (random extension):

Appearance of a ransom note delivered by yet another Makop ransomware (GIF):

Text presented within:

Information for FUNDACAO OSESP
::: Greetings :::

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

.2.
Q: How to recover files?
A: If you wish to protect and decrypt your files you will need to pay in bitcoins.

.3.
Q: What does "stolen" mean?
A: We have downloaded a large amount of sensitive private information from your company and if you don’t pay, we will publish it on the Internet.
Some proofs of our words:
hxxps://prnt.sc/vksfwt
hxxps://prnt.sc/vksgqj
hxxps://prnt.sc/vksh2i
hxxps://prnt.sc/vkshc9
hxxps://prnt.sc/vkshmj
hxxps://prnt.sc/vkshw3

.4.
Q: What about guarantees?
A: Its 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 interest.
To check the ability of returning files, you can send to us any 3 files with SIMPLE extensions(jpg,xls,doc, etc... not databases!) and low sizes(max 10 mb), we will decrypt them and send back to you.

.5.
Q: How to contact with you?
A: You can write us to our mailbox: steaknshake@gmx.us or makop@keemail.me or makop.support@secmail.pro

.6.
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. This program will decrypt all your encrypted files.

:::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.

Update December 10, 2025 - Researchers at Acronis identified an active Makop ransomware campaign primarily targeting businesses in India, which accounted for 55% of recent attacks, with additional incidents in Brazil and Germany. The attackers typically gain entry by brute-forcing weak Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) credentials on publicly exposed systems.

Once inside, the operators disable antivirus software (including a tailored uninstaller for Quick Heal, an antivirus product popular in India), steal stored passwords with hacking tools, and exploit Windows vulnerabilities to gain administrator privileges before deploying the encryptor. This campaign also marks the first documented case of Makop being delivered through the GuLoader downloader malware. (source: acronis.com).

Makop ransomware removal:

Instant automatic malware removal:

Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:

By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by RCS LT, the parent company of PCRisk.com.

Removal and file recovery procedure

If your files are encrypted with a new extension and a ransom note has appeared, you've been hit by ransomware. Don't pay. The procedure below works in order: contain the infection, identify the variant, remove the ransomware itself (so anything you restore doesn't get re-encrypted), and try to recover files using free decryption tools, Windows Volume Shadow Copies, or backups. Run a full system scan with Combo Cleaner to remove the infection - then move on to file recovery.

Common ransomware behaviors

VisibleEncrypts your files and renames them

The ransomware reads each file, encrypts the contents with the attacker's public key, and writes the encrypted bytes back to disk. Most variants also rename the file by appending a new extension - .net, .locked, .crypt, .lockbit, .djvu, etc. Without the matching private key, the encrypted files cannot be opened normally. Recovery depends on a free decryption tool, a recoverable Volume Shadow Copy, or a clean backup.

VisibleDrops a ransom note in every encrypted folder

A text or HTML file (usually named HOW_TO_DECRYPT.txt, README.txt, _readme.txt, or similar) is placed in every folder that contains encrypted files. The note explains the situation, lists a payment amount in cryptocurrency, gives a deadline, and provides a contact email or .onion site. Save the note - don't delete it. Its exact wording, the email address, and the bitcoin wallet are how you identify the variant in the next phase.

VisibleReplaces the desktop wallpaper

Many ransomware variants change the Windows wallpaper to a black or red image with the ransom message and instructions. The wallpaper is just a visual scare tactic - it doesn't add any actual capability and reverts to normal once the ransomware is removed. Photograph it before removal in case the contact details are useful for variant identification or for reporting to authorities.

HiddenDeletes Volume Shadow Copies

One of the first things modern ransomware does after launching is run vssadmin delete shadows /all /quiet to wipe Windows' built-in Volume Shadow Copies - the snapshots that Previous Versions and System Restore rely on. Some ransomware doesn't fully succeed (especially on systems where the user lacks full admin rights), leaving partial shadow copies recoverable. Phase 4 step 11 covers how to check what survived.

HiddenDisables Windows Defender and other security tools

Before encrypting, the ransomware tries to silence anything that could alert you or block it - Windows Defender real-time protection, third-party antivirus services, backup agents (Veeam, Acronis), and sometimes the Windows Event Log service. It often modifies Group Policy or registry keys to keep these off after reboot. Phase 3 step 9 explicitly turns Tamper Protection back on so the next ransomware attempt can't repeat the trick.

HiddenSpreads laterally to other PCs on the network

Network-aware ransomware (LockBit, Conti, BlackCat, Akira families) doesn't stop at the first machine. It scans for SMB shares, mapped drives, and other PCs on the same network, then encrypts whatever it can reach. On Windows domains, a single compromised user with admin rights can lead to all-domain encryption. This is why Phase 1 step 2 disconnects the network as the very first action - it stops the spread immediately.

HiddenSteals data before encrypting (double extortion)

Modern ransomware (LockBit, BlackCat / ALPHV, Akira, Cl0p, Royal) almost always exfiltrates data before encrypting. The attacker then runs a "double extortion" play: pay the ransom for decryption, plus pay again to prevent the stolen data from being leaked on the group's leak site. Paying the first ransom does not get the leaked data back - assume that anything the ransomware could read was uploaded. This is one more reason not to pay: the data is already out.

Tools you'll need

Combo Cleaner Antivirus 7-days free trial

Recommended primary scanner. VB100 certified. Removes the ransomware infection so file recovery doesn't get re-encrypted.

Microsoft Defender Offline Free · built-in

Built into Windows. Scans before Windows fully loads to catch persistence the running scanners miss.

Microsoft Safety Scanner (MSERT) Free

Microsoft's free on-demand scanner. Always-current signatures - the binary expires every 10 days.

ID Ransomware Free · web

Upload a ransom note and a sample encrypted file - identifies the variant family and tells you whether a free decryptor exists.

No More Ransom Project Free · web

Joint project of Europol, Dutch Police, and security vendors. Free decryption tools indexed by ransomware family.

Shadow Explorer Free

Browse Windows Volume Shadow Copies as a normal file tree - useful when ransomware partially failed to delete them.

Recuva Free

Deleted-file recovery. Long-shot for ransomware - only helps if the variant deleted unencrypted originals before encrypting copies.

Phase 1~ 5 min

Don't pay & contain

---

1

Don't pay the ransom

1 min · read⚠ Do not skip

Paying the ransom does not guarantee you'll get your files back. Major ransomware response studies consistently show that a meaningful percentage of paying victims either receive a non-working decryptor, only partial decryption, or no decryptor at all. Beyond that:

• Paying confirms you as a willing target - re-attack rates within 12 months are high
• Several ransomware groups have been sanctioned (US OFAC, UK OFSI). Paying these groups may be illegal under sanctions law in your country
• The ransom funds the next attack - on you or someone else
• Modern ransomware almost always exfiltrates data first, so paying doesn't get the leaked data back. Assume anything the malware could read was uploaded
• Decryptors, even when they work, often leave files corrupted because the encryption itself was buggy or rushed

The path below tries every legal, free recovery option first. Pay only as an absolute last resort, after consulting a lawyer and your country's cyber crime authority.

2

Disconnect from the network and log out of cloud storage

2 minNo tool needed

Pull the Ethernet cable and turn off Wi-Fi on the affected PC. If multiple computers share the network, do the same on every machine you suspect could be affected, including any servers and NAS units.

Then sign out of cloud storage clients (OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud) from their app settings. If you can, pause the sync. Some ransomware uses the running sync client to push encrypted versions over your clean cloud copies.

Why this matters

Modern ransomware spreads laterally across SMB shares, mapped drives, RDP, and reachable network neighbors. Disconnecting stops the spread the moment you do it. Logging out of cloud sync clients prevents the ransomware from encrypting the cloud copies of your files via the sync API.

3

Unplug external drives and USB storage

1 minNo tool needed

Safely eject any external drives, USB sticks, SD cards, and network-attached storage shares - then unplug them. If a drive was connected when the ransomware ran, the files on it may already be encrypted, but unplugging stops further damage.

Critically: don't reconnect any drive (including your most recent backup) to this PC until the ransomware is removed in Phase 3. Reconnecting an external backup to an actively-infected PC is the most common way that backup gets encrypted too.

Phase 2~ 5 min

Identify the variant

---

4

Save the ransom note and a sample encrypted file

2 min

Copy the ransom note and one small encrypted file (under 1 MB) to a USB stick, or photograph the note with your phone. You'll need both for the variant identification step.

The ransom note is usually one of:

• A .txt file in every encrypted folder (typically HOW_TO_DECRYPT.txt, README.txt, or _readme.txt)
• An .html file with the same purpose
• A changed desktop wallpaper - photograph it
• A lock-screen interrupt that runs at startup - rarer

Important

Don't delete the note. Variant identification depends on its exact wording, the contact email, and the bitcoin wallet address. The note is also evidence if you report to authorities.

5

Identify the variant with ID Ransomware

Tool: ID Ransomware3 min

From a clean device (your phone is fine, or another PC that wasn't on the affected network), visit id-ransomware.malwarehunterteam.com. Upload the ransom note and the sample encrypted file. The site identifies the variant family and tells you whether a free decryptor exists.

Pro tip

ID Ransomware is run by the Malware Hunter Team. Files you upload are kept private - they're used for analysis, not published. If you're concerned about uploading data anyway, you can paste the contact email and bitcoin wallet from the note - those are often enough for identification.

Phase 3~ 30-45 min

Remove the ransomware

---

The ransomware itself must be removed before any file recovery. If it's still active, anything you restore in Phase 4 gets re-encrypted within minutes.

6

Boot to Safe Mode with Networking and download the scanners

5 min

Safe Mode loads only the minimal Windows drivers, which prevents most ransomware from auto-running while you set up the scanners.

Windows 11: open Settings → System → Recovery, click Restart now next to Advanced startup. After the restart, click Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart, then press 5 or F5.

Windows 10: click the Windows logo, hold Shift, click the Power icon and choose Restart. From the Choose-an-option screen, click Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart, then press F5.

Once Safe Mode has loaded, turn Wi-Fi back on and download Combo Cleaner (used in step 8) and Microsoft Safety Scanner (used in step 9). Save both installers to your Desktop, then disconnect Wi-Fi again before scanning.

7

Run Microsoft Defender Offline

Tool: Built into Windows15 min

Reboot to normal Windows. Open Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Scan options. Select Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan) and click Scan now. The PC restarts into a stripped-down environment and scans the disk before Windows fully loads.

Why this comes first

Some ransomware variants drop bootkit components or kernel hooks that hide from any scanner running on the same Windows session that's already infected. A pre-boot offline scan sees the disk before the malware can load itself.

Recommended antivirus

Combo Cleaner

VB100 certified. Includes anti-trojan, registry/persistence scanning, and anti-spyware in one pass. The 7-day free trial is available.

Download Combo Cleaner

8

Run a full Combo Cleaner scan

Tool: Combo Cleaner20-40 min

Run the installer you downloaded in step 6 and start a full system scan (not the quick scan). Let it complete, review what it detected, and apply the recommended actions. Combo Cleaner quarantines the ransomware executable and the registry / scheduled-task entries that re-launch it on reboot.

9

Run Microsoft Safety Scanner and re-enable Defender

Tool: MSERT15 min

Run Microsoft Safety Scanner (MSERT.exe) as a second-opinion full scan. The binary expires every 10 days so the copy you downloaded has the latest signatures.

Once it finishes, open Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Manage settings and confirm Real-time protection, Cloud-delivered protection, and Tamper Protection are all on. Many ransomware variants disable Defender during the attack - this is where you switch it back on so the next attempt can't repeat the trick.

Why a second scan

Different scanning engines catch different threats. Running an additional Microsoft scan after Combo Cleaner is the most underused verification step in malware removal - and free.

Phase 4~ 30-60 min · results vary

Try to recover files

---

Try the steps in order. The first decryptor that works ends the recovery process - no need to do all four.

10

Check the No More Ransom Project for a free decryptor

Tool: nomoreransom.org★ Cleanest path if listed5 min

Visit nomoreransom.org and search the Decryption Tools list for the variant name returned by ID Ransomware. The project is run by Europol, the Dutch Police, and security vendors - everything listed is legitimate and free.

If a decryptor exists, download it onto a clean PC, copy it across, and follow its instructions exactly. Decryptors usually want you to point them at a sample encrypted file plus its known unencrypted version (sometimes any image you previously had a backup of works).

Free decryptors exist for parts of the STOP/Djvu, GandCrab, REvil, Avaddon, Conti and Hive families, among others. Most modern variants don't have public decryptors - if yours isn't listed, that's expected; move to the next step.

11

Try Windows Volume Shadow Copies

Tool: Shadow Explorer / vssadmin15 min

Windows automatically creates Volume Shadow Copies of files when System Restore points are made or scheduled backups run. Most ransomware tries to wipe these (vssadmin delete shadows /all /quiet), but the deletion sometimes fails partially - especially if the running user doesn't have full admin rights. When it does fail, snapshots survive that contain pre-encryption versions of your files.

First, check what's there. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

vssadmin list shadows

If you see entries listed, shadow copies survived. To restore from them:

• Built-in: right-click any folder → Properties → Previous Versions tab. Pick a snapshot dated before the infection and restore.
• Better tool for browsing: install Shadow Explorer (free). It shows all snapshots as a normal file tree and lets you copy out only the files you want.

Why check this even when there's a decryptor

Shadow Copies recover the original files exactly, with no risk of decryption errors. If they survived, this is faster and cleaner than running a decryptor on the encrypted set.

12

Restore from cloud or external backup

Tool: your backup software30 min

If you have a backup that pre-dates the infection, this is the cleanest recovery available. Important precautions:

• Don't reconnect a backup drive until Phase 3 is complete. If the ransomware is still active, plugging in the backup encrypts it too.
• For cloud backups (OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud), use the Version History feature to roll individual files back to pre-encryption versions.
• OneDrive specifically has a "Restore your OneDrive" feature: if it detected mass file changes, you can roll back the entire account up to 30 days. Sign in at OneDrive on the web, click the Settings gear, and choose Restore your OneDrive. Microsoft 365 subscribers also get ransomware detection alerts; non-subscribers get one free recovery.
• Verify the restored files open correctly before you delete the encrypted set. Test a few documents, photos, and any database / project files.

13

Try Recuva as a last-resort recovery

Tool: Recuva30 min

Recuva is a long shot, not a primary recovery tool. Most modern ransomware encrypts files in place - it reads the original, encrypts the data, and writes the encrypted bytes back to the same disk location. In that case, the original isn't deleted, just rewritten - and Recuva has nothing to find.

But for older or simpler variants that deleted originals before creating encrypted copies (rather than encrypting in place), Recuva can sometimes pull the originals from unallocated disk space. Worth trying as a last resort, especially before you use the disk much further.

If you try it:

• Stop using the disk as much as possible - every disk write reduces recovery odds
• Run Recuva from a USB stick, not from the affected disk
• Use Deep Scan mode (slower but the only mode worth running for this scenario)

Don't skip the steps above expecting Recuva to bail you out. It works in maybe 5-20% of cases, depending on the variant and how soon you try.

Phase 5~ 20 min + ongoing

Report & prevent re-infection

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14

Report the attack to authorities

10-20 min

Even if your files aren't recovered, your report helps authorities track variants, attribute groups, and warn future victims. In some jurisdictions (especially the US and UK) early reporting can sometimes help recall a wired ransom payment via banking partners.

United States: ic3.gov (FBI) + stopransomware.gov (CISA)

United Kingdom: reportfraud.police.uk (Report Fraud, the successor to Action Fraud) + NCSC

Canada: antifraudcentre.ca

Australia: ReportCyber

Spain: Policía Nacional (Oficina Virtual de Denuncias)

France: cybermalveillance.gouv.fr

Germany: BKA

Italy: Polizia Postale

Netherlands: Politie

Poland: CERT Polska

Portugal: CNCS

EU (other): your national CERT

Save the report number - banks, insurers, and credit bureaus will ask for it. If you operate a business, you may also have legal disclosure obligations (GDPR in the EU, state breach laws in the US) that run on a 72-hour clock.

15

Plan 3-2-1 backups going forward

30 min initial

The single best defense against ransomware is a tested backup. Use the 3-2-1 rule:

• 3 copies of your data
• 2 different storage media (e.g., internal drive + external drive)
• 1 offline / air-gapped copy (an external drive that isn't always connected)

Recommended cadence:

• Daily: cloud sync (OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive) - convenient, but vulnerable if the ransomware reaches the sync folder. The Version History feature is what saves you
• Weekly: external drive that you connect briefly, then disconnect - the air-gap is what protects against ransomware
• Monthly: a second external drive stored off-site (different physical location) - protects against fire, theft, flood

Important

Test the backup at least once. Open a few files from it, check sizes match, restore one to a different folder. An untested backup isn't a backup - it's a hope.

16

Patch the entry point and monitor for 30 days

5 min/day · 30 days

Most reinfections happen via the same vector that worked the first time. Until you've patched the entry point, watch for:

• Unusual disk activity, unexpected file modifications, or unfamiliar processes in Task Manager
• Unexpected reboots or new accounts you didn't create
• Defender or your antivirus turning itself off again

Common entry vectors and what to do about each:

• Phishing email with a malicious attachment - review email filters and train yourself / staff to recognise the patterns - see pcrisk's Phishing/Scam reference
• Exposed RDP with weak passwords - disable Remote Desktop from Settings → System → Remote Desktop if you don't need it. If you do, put it behind a VPN and require a long password plus MFA
• Unpatched VPN appliances or public-facing apps - check the vendor's advisories page and apply the latest firmware
• Cracked / pirated software - was the most common vector for STOP/Djvu in particular. Don't run software from torrent sites

Run a Combo Cleaner scan weekly for the first month. Update Windows, browsers, and applications aggressively.

Important: Removing a ransomware infection requires a full system scan, not a manual file delete. If you're not confident with the manual procedure, run an automated scan with Combo Cleaner and Windows Defender and stop there - that combination removes the vast majority of consumer ransomware variants. Then move to Phase 4 for file recovery, or to Phase 5 if your files are unrecoverable and you need to start fresh from a clean Windows install.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How was my computer hacked and how did hackers encrypt my files?

Cybercriminals distribute ransomware in several ways. They attempt to trick users into executing malware by themselves. Usually, users cause computer infections via malicious emails, software cracking tools, files downloaded from unreliable sources, drive-by downloads, fake installers.

How to open ".makop" files?

Once Makop has encrypted files, they cannot be opened. Decryption is required for file usage.

Where should I look for free decryption tools for Makop ransomware?

In case of a ransomware attack you should check the No More Ransom project website (more information above).

I can pay you a lot of money, can you decrypt files for me?

We do not provide a file decryption service. Third parties offering decryption should not be paid. Typically, they act as man-in-the-middle or do not provide a decryption tool even after the payment. In most cases, files encrypted by ransomware cannot be decrypted without the interference of cybercriminals unless the ransomware has certain vulnerabilities.

Will Combo Cleaner help me remove Makop ransomware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan the operating system and remove ransomware. It is important to remove ransomware to prevent further data loss/computer infections. It is worth mentioning that files remain encrypted even when ransomware is no longer active/present.