The victims often infect their computers this ransomware variant from illegal downloads used to activate software licenses for free. Once on the system, MPAL ransomware virus starts encrypting files silently. To trick the victim into thinking everything is normal, it displays a fake Windows update prompt. An experienced computer user would notice that Windows updates definitely do not look like a small prompt, but involve a full-screen cover during the procedure. MPAL ransomware scans the system for various file types and makes them inaccessible by applying crypto-cipher algorithm. It must be pointed out that this process can be reversed using a private decryption key, which cannot be cracked that simply. The key is stored on cybercriminals’ servers safely. Another option to recover files is to use data backups created prior to the attack date, or try data recovery tools. To restore affected or corrupted Windows operating system files, you can download RESTORO.

Ransom note contains a clear message: pay message or lose files for good

After a successful attack, the ransomware needs to make sure that the victim gets the criminals’ message very clearly. For this reason, they leave a ransom-demanding text notes all over the computer. These notes are called _readme.txt and contain the following information: The criminals demand paying money in Bitcoin cryptocurrency. This ensures their anonymity when cashing out the payments. They also suggest testing the .mpal decryption tool by sending one encrypted file to them. The provided contact methods are two emails – helpdatarestore@firemail.cc and helpmanager@mail.ch. These emails have been long used in various STOP/DJVI versions and haven’t changed in a while. We never recommend paying a ransom to cybercriminals. Doing so simply fuels their filthy business and convinces them to keep going. In addition, it is right to say that no matter how many security measurements you take to protect your files, cybercriminals keep improving their attack methods, so creating data backups regularly and storing them on external data storage devices is simply a must.

MPAL ransomware is highly dangerous itself, however, what is even worse is that it drags AZORult malware to the system alongside it. This malicious program is simply a password-stealing Trojan used by attackers to get access to sensitive data silently. The virus will make sure to steal any passwords saved in your browsers, so we highly recommend changing all of them after you remove MPAL ransomware safely. Another suspicious thing you may notice is that attempts to enter certain websites will result in “This webpage is not available” error. This can happen because of the following reason: MPAL virus restricts access to popular computer-related websites by editing Windows HOSTS file. By doing so, it blocks access to such domains to possibly prevent the victim from looking up for help online. To get HOSTS file back to normal, you can try our recommended software – RESTORO.

Threat Summary

STOP/DJVU distribution relies on online downloads

MPAL ransomware is the 223rd version of STOP/DJVU, a malicious ransom-demanding virus that mainly spreads via infectious peer-to-peer downloads. That said, you can download the ransomware payload after deciding to get an illegal software license activator such as KMSPico or a software crack/keygen for any desired program, such as photo editing software or game. Please refrain from such files, as they can always cause more harm than do good. Victims of previous DJVU versions such as LEZP, QEWE, LALO or MPAJ report executing the malware along “drawing programs,” “game cracks” or “malicious torrents.” Ransomware distribution via malicious downloads isn’t the only attack vector used by malware developers. For example, you can download the virus after clicking a deceptive link online or opening a contaminated email attachment. To learn what you can do to prevent such attacks, please refer to ransomware prevention guide on our site.

Remove MPAL ransomware virus safely and restore your files

The first step to computer safety now is to remove MPAL ransomware virus using a trustworthy computer malware cleaner. Do not forget to boot your computer in Safe mode using the instructions given below first. You can eliminate the virus using your chosen tool. To replace damaged operating system files and HOSTS file with fresh copies, you can try RESTORO. MPAL virus removal shouldn’t be delayed. Otherwise, your operating system will remain vulnerable and monitored by the aforementioned password-stealer. To protect your privacy and security, initiate a system scan, eliminate malware, then do not forget to change passwords on all accounts. Primarily change passwords for websites whose login details you have saved in your browser. OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system: GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more. Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs. Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer. Read full review here. RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically. RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them. Read full review here.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove the virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, see a video tutorial on how to do it: Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10 users Now, you can search for and remove MPAL ransomware virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable malware removal program. In addition, we suggest trying a combination of INTEGO Antivirus (removes malware and protects your PC in real-time) and RESTORO (repairs virus damage to Windows OS files).

Method 2. Use System Restore

In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically. Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10 users After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won’t be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future. Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense If you’re looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek’s Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.