CHIP Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The CHIP ransomware is a new malware threat that is being distributed using the RIG Exploit kit. An active investigation is currently under way. To read the available information continue to our removal guide below.

chip-ransomware-bss-image


Name
CHIP

File Extensions
.CHIP

Ransom
None

Solution #1
You can skip all steps and remove CHIP with the help of an anti-malware tool.

Solution #2
CHIP ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below.

Distribution
RIG-E exploit kit, Spam Email Campaigns, malicious ads & etc.

CHIP Ransomware Description

According to the experts this is a new strain of ransomware viruses that is currently actively being analyzed. It follows a typical ransomware strategy upon infection – it targets specific user data and encrypts it with the RSA cipher. In case of infection all files that have one of the extensions listed below may be renamed with the .CHIP extension.

.db, .doc, .docx, .jpg, .jpeg, .ppt, .pptx, .xml, .xlsx, .xls, .wpd, wb2, .txt, .png, .pdf, .html, .zip, .mp3, .mp4

A ransom note named CHIP_FILES.txt is then displayed. It is used to extort money from the victims in return of providing access to their compromised data.

The ransom note reads the following:

YOUR ID:94ccb192180178f5c8b284ad4026ed3c

Hello!

All Your files are encrypted!

For more specific instructions, please visit a support home page:

http://mm6x57ri2coivya6.onion

To see this page follow these steps:

1 – Download and install tor-browser: http://www.torproject.org/projects/torbrowser.html.en

2 – After a successful installation, run the browser

3 – Type in the address bar – http://mm6x57ri2coivya6.onion

4 – Follow the instructions on the site

Attention: DO NOT USE ANY PUBLIC DECRYPTERS! YOU CAN DAMAGE YOUR FILES!

Kind regards,

Support Team.

YOUR ID:94ccb192180178f5c8b284ad4026ed3c (Personal ID)

YOUR ID:94ccb192180178f5c8b284ad4026ed3c (Personal ID)

YOUR ID:94ccb192180178f5c8b284ad4026ed3c (Personal ID)

YOUR ID:94ccb192180178f5c8b284ad4026ed3c (Personal ID)

YOUR ID:94ccb192180178f5c8b284ad4026ed3c (Personal ID)

CHIP Ransomware Distribution

The CHIP Ransomware is being distributed with the RIG exploit kit using various techniques.

CHIP Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete CHIP completely with a few mouse clicks.

STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.

    1) Hit WIN Key + R

Windows-key-plus-R-button-launch-Run-Box-in-Windows-illustrated

    2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
    3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot
    4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
    5) Apply -> OK

Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking

STEP II: Show Hidden Files

    1) Open My Computer/This PC
    2) Windows 7

      – Click on “Organize” button
      – Select “Folder and search options
      – Select the “View” tab
      – Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option

    3) Windows 8/ 10

      – Open “View” tab
      – Mark “Hidden items” option

    show-hidden-files-win8-10

    4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button

STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes

    1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
    2) Get over to “Processes
    3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location
    4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process
    5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it

STEP IV: Remove Completely CHIP Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

Manual removal of CHIP requires being familiar with system files and registries. Removal of any important data can lead to permanent system damage. Prevent this troublesome effect – delete CHIP ransomware with SpyHunter malware removal tool.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

STEP V: Repair Windows Registry

    1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
    2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
    3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
    4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys

Further help for Windows Registry repair

STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files

    1) Use present backups
    2) Restore your personal files using File History

      – Hit WIN Key
      – Type “restore your files” in the search box
      – Select “Restore your files with File History
      – Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar

    restore-your-personal-files-using-File-History-bestecuritysearch

      – Hit the “Restore” button

    3) Using System Restore Point

      – Hit WIN Key
      – Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

restore-files-using-system-restore-point

STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures

    1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
    2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
    3) Secure your web browser.
    4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
    5) Disable macros in Office documents.
    6) Use strong passwords.
    7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
    8) Backup regularly your data.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

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Author : Martin Beltov

Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.


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