.bip file extension virus (Removal Guide) - Decryption Steps Included

.bip virus Removal Guide

What is .bip file extension virus?

Bip ransomware – a hazardous cryptovirus hailing from the infamous Dharma family

.bip file virus ransomwareBip ransomware is a crypto-virus that belongs to Dharma family.

Bip ransomware isn't a newly created file-locking parasite, it's been active since June of 2018. But it was revived and received a new file extension that it appends to original filenames of infected devices when it's encrypting them and a new contact email if the victims decide to reach out to the cybercriminals.

.bip file extension virus belongs to a well-known malware lineage called Dharma ransomware. This ransomware-type[1] family has been terrorizing computer users since 2016. There is already a handful of different versions, such as 4help, 21btc, Mpr, and others, and it seems that developers are not stopping with them anytime soon.

After encrypting victims' files, this cyber infection appoints them with a triple appendix, consisting of unique users ID, criminals contact email in brackets, and .bip extension so the renamed files might look like [restoresales@airmail.cc].bip, [buydecrypt@qq.com].bip.

Dharma family ransomware is known for placing contact emails in brackets as the second part of extensions. Since there are many variations, emails in brackets might differ, but if victims end with the .bip extension in the end, then most likely they are facing the same virus. Additionally, the cryptovirus displays ransom notes named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt file that includes instructions and threats.

Bip virus is using AES[2] encryption algorithm to lock files on an infected computer. Anything from photos or videos to documents and excel files, or even archives can be modified by ransomware. Only the system files are left alone, although they might get altered.

Name .bip file extension virus
Type Ransomware
Family Dharma
Danger level High. Can encrypt the most valuable files
Encryption method AES
Extension All non-system files receive a complex three-part appendix and appear like this:
.id-user ID.[buydecrypt@qq.com].bip, or
.id-user ID.[restoresales@airmail.cc].bip
Ransom note FILES ENCRYPTED.txt
Distribution Malicious email attachments, file-sharing platforms, RDP attacks
Removal Ransomware should be eliminated from all infected devices with trustworthy anti-malware software
System Health Since cryptoviruses can alter system files and settings, it is recommended to perform system repair with the FortectIntego system tune-up tool

Ransom notes from different file-locking parasites of this lineage are almost identical, their always named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt, mainly just the criminal email address changes and a few other minor details. Here's what Bip virus creators message to their victims look like:

All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail buydecrypt@qq.com
Write this ID in the title of your message –
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails:buydecrypt@qq.com
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click 'Buy bitcoins', and select the seller by payment method and price.
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.

Since ransomware is not picky, it can encrypt literally anything on your computer, from the most important documents to photos or even art. The thing that complicates their recovery is the fact that malware can also delete Shadow Volume copies of these files. Besides, Bip ransomware has also been found to be capable of altering the Windows registry by modifying its keys and sub-keys. It can also access other system settings.

Keeping in mind that this ransomware is hailing from the Dharma family, you should remove .bip file extension virus from your computer right after you spot its attack. Otherwise, the more time you give for the ransomware, the more changes can be done by it on your computer system. After eliminating the virus, you can focus on recovering your files. If you try recovering your files while your PC is not clean, the virus can start yet another encryption procedure on your PC system.

A full Bip ransomware removal procedure requires installing additional tools, such as anti-virus or anti-malware software. Experts[3] remind you that only official software can help you scan the whole system and find those additional pieces that might be hiding on your computer without any signs. You can use the FortectIntego for the job or trust any other certified tool.

At the moment, there is no information if files affected by this cryptovirus are decryptable. Only several Dharma ransomware versions can be decrypted using legitimate tools (detailed information at the bottom of this article) provided by security experts. So you better focus on the elimination and then worry about your lost files.

.bip file extension virus.bip file extension is used to mark encrypted files. these files cannot be opened and used. Ransomware infections actively spread via spam emails

One of the most popular methods for the distribution of this virus is spam. These messages mostly aim to convince people to open malicious attachments and get infected thru them. Safe-looking documents often hide potential malware because people do not think twice before downloading or opening them.

Virus developers can disguise their malware behind legitimate-looking files, known company names, or other trustworthy sources. The most popular methods used to spread ransomware are:

  • purchase receipts, invoices;
  • product orders;
  • documents or other important files;
  • banking information.

You should delete every spam email without opening it because that's how you can get it in less than a minute. If you happen to receive an email that presents a company you have no relation to or a product order receipt that you have not ordered, make sure you ignore such a message. Be aware that these methods are widely used and can affect everyone.

Getting rid of .bip file extension virus with our simple guide

To remove .bip file extension virus, you need to rely on professional programs that are capable of cleaning the whole system with only one click. We can suggest SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes but feel free to use other tools if you want to. Each of these programs is tested by our experts, so there is no doubt that you can trust them and use them for the elimination of any malware.

Anti-malware tools can take some time while trying to find every little threat that is related to the ransomware or other infections. Afterward, a system tune-up tool like the FortectIntego should be used to repair system files and make sure your computer is a safe place to restore your data from backups or try other file recovery methods provided below.

Remember that without the correct ransomware elimination sequence, you can lose all of your files permanently. Additionally, you can run into problems related to your files' recovery as ransomware components can still be there on your system.

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Compatible with Microsoft Windows Compatible with macOS
What to do if failed?
If you failed to fix virus damage using Fortect Intego, submit a question to our support team and provide as much details as possible.
Fortect Intego has a free limited scanner. Fortect Intego offers more through scan when you purchase its full version. When free scanner detects issues, you can fix them using free manual repairs or you can decide to purchase the full version in order to fix them automatically.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Fortect, try running SpyHunter 5.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Intego, try running Combo Cleaner.

Getting rid of .bip virus. Follow these steps

Manual removal using Safe Mode

When dealing with ransomware and find yourself blocked by it, reboot your system into Safe Mode with Networking at first by using this guide:

Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.

Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking

Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment. 

Windows 7 / Vista / XP
  1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
  2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
  3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list. Windows 7/XP
Windows 10 / Windows 8
  1. Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
    Settings
  2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
    Update and security
  3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
  4. Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
  5. Click Restart now.
    Reboot
  6. Select Troubleshoot. Choose an option
  7. Go to Advanced options. Advanced options
  8. Select Startup Settings. Startup settings
  9. Press Restart.
  10. Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking. Enable safe mode

Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes

Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Click on More details.
    Open task manager
  3. Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
  4. Right-click and select Open file location.
    Open file location
  5. Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
    End task
  6. Delete the contents of the malicious folder.

Step 3. Check program Startup

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Go to Startup tab.
  3. Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
    Startup

Step 4. Delete virus files

Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:

  1. Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
    Disk cleanup
  2. Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
  3. Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:

    Temporary Internet Files
    Downloads
    Recycle Bin
    Temporary files

  4. Pick Clean up system files.
    Delete temp files
  5. You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):

    %AppData%
    %LocalAppData%
    %ProgramData%
    %WinDir%

After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.

Remove .bip using System Restore

System Restore feature can also help when ransomware blocks your antivirus scanner:

  • Step 1: Reboot your computer to Safe Mode with Command Prompt
    Windows 7 / Vista / XP
    1. Click Start Shutdown Restart OK.
    2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
    3. Select Command Prompt from the list Select 'Safe Mode with Command Prompt'

    Windows 10 / Windows 8
    1. Press the Power button at the Windows login screen. Now press and hold Shift, which is on your keyboard, and click Restart..
    2. Now select Troubleshoot Advanced options Startup Settings and finally press Restart.
    3. Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt in Startup Settings window. Select 'Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt'
  • Step 2: Restore your system files and settings
    1. Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter. Enter 'cd restore' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    2. Now type rstrui.exe and press Enter again.. Enter 'rstrui.exe' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    3. When a new window shows up, click Next and select your restore point that is prior the infiltration of .bip. After doing that, click Next. When 'System Restore' window shows up, select 'Next' Select your restore point and click 'Next'
    4. Now click Yes to start system restore. Click 'Yes' and start system restore
    Once you restore your system to a previous date, download and scan your computer with FortectIntego and make sure that .bip removal is performed successfully.

Bonus: Recover your data

Guide which is presented above is supposed to help you remove .bip from your computer. To recover your encrypted files, we recommend using a detailed guide prepared by 2-spyware.com security experts.

If your files are encrypted by .bip, you can use several methods to restore them:

Recover .bip extension files by using Data Recovery Pro

Try Data Recovery Pro if you deleted your files accidentally or ransomware virus encrypted them. For that, use these steps:

  • Download Data Recovery Pro;
  • Follow the steps of Data Recovery Setup and install the program on your computer;
  • Launch it and scan your computer for files encrypted by .bip ransomware;
  • Restore them.

To restore .bip extension files individually, use Windows Previous versions feature

If you have important files that you want to restore, you can use this option. Although, check if System Restore was enabled before the initial attack:

  • Find an encrypted file you need to restore and right-click on it;
  • Select “Properties” and go to “Previous versions” tab;
  • Here, check each of available copies of the file in “Folder versions”. You should select the version you want to recover and click “Restore”.

ShadowExplorer is a tool that can help with data recovery as well

If Shadow Volume Copies of your data was not deleted by ransomware, you could use ShadowExplorer:

  • Download Shadow Explorer (http://shadowexplorer.com/);
  • Follow a Shadow Explorer Setup Wizard and install this application on your computer;
  • Launch the program and go through the drop down menu on the top left corner to select the disk of your encrypted data. Check what folders are there;
  • Right-click on the folder you want to restore and select “Export”. You can also select where you want it to be stored.

Possible data decryption methods

Cybersecurity companies are constantly updating free decryption tools so that ransomware victims shouldn't pay a dime to get their files back. There's a decryption tool for Dharma family ransomware. It might not work since this version of .bip extension virus is brand new, but you can still download it and give it a go.

Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from .bip and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes

How to prevent from getting ransomware

Protect your privacy – employ a VPN

There are several ways how to make your online time more private – you can access an incognito tab. However, there is no secret that even in this mode, you are tracked for advertising purposes. There is a way to add an extra layer of protection and create a completely anonymous web browsing practice with the help of Private Internet Access VPN. This software reroutes traffic through different servers, thus leaving your IP address and geolocation in disguise. Besides, it is based on a strict no-log policy, meaning that no data will be recorded, leaked, and available for both first and third parties. The combination of a secure web browser and Private Internet Access VPN will let you browse the Internet without a feeling of being spied or targeted by criminals. 

No backups? No problem. Use a data recovery tool

If you wonder how data loss can occur, you should not look any further for answers – human errors, malware attacks, hardware failures, power cuts, natural disasters, or even simple negligence. In some cases, lost files are extremely important, and many straight out panic when such an unfortunate course of events happen. Due to this, you should always ensure that you prepare proper data backups on a regular basis.

If you were caught by surprise and did not have any backups to restore your files from, not everything is lost. Data Recovery Pro is one of the leading file recovery solutions you can find on the market – it is likely to restore even lost emails or data located on an external device.

About the author
Julie Splinters
Julie Splinters - Anti-malware specialist

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