To inform the computer user about what is currently happening, the ransomware will also drop a _readme.txt file in all the folders. This _readme.txt file is more or less a ransom note and equally explains the situation i.e. the encryption of all files using a strong algorithm. Therefore, the cybercriminals behind the attack would be expecting the victim to pay ransom so they could be given BBNM decryption tool.

Overview of what the ransom note is all about

There will be a compelling headline demanding the user’s urgent attention. Furthermore, the body of the message will elaborate that the entire files contained in the infected computer, such as documents, photos, and videos, among others have been encrypted with the use of very strong and unique key. However, the only way they could be able to retrieve them is through a particular decryption software and key produced by the cybercriminals. Therefore, they would have to make payment for it to be forwarded to them. Anything contrary to that would mean an indefinite loss of the contents. What this means in essence is that such files have been taken hostage and the cybercriminals won’t release them unless the file owner complies with their monetary demands. They would also drop two email addresses (manager@time2mail.ch and supportsys@airmail.cc) in the ransom note aimed at encouraging further discussions between both parties. They would also suggest that their victim could equally attach and email any randomly selected part of the encrypted files to them for test decryption purposes. They would also mention the exact cost of the decryption tool/key which they often put at $980. Remember that this is the ransom fee and motive behind the attack. However, they would add a condition that if the victim could get in touch with them within a period of three days following the attack, it will enable them to leverage a 50% discount. Therefore, instead of paying the whole amount, $490 would be acceptable. Their demands does not end there, they would also compel the victim to make payment through cryptocurrency since they do not accept bank deposits or transfer but rather Bitcoin or similar cryptos. They usually make use of such a medium of payment in order to avoid possible identification and arrest by law enforcement agencies. Here is a screenshot of the _readme.txt ransom note the cybercriminals would drop in all the folders. Regardless of how dire the situation could be, FBI and cybersecurity experts have warned that victims should never comply with ransom demands by cybercriminals. They pointed out that paying ransom fee does not guarantee file recovery. Also, by sending money to cybercriminals, they would only be encouraging the online rogues to continue in their criminal activities since they would find it profitable, thus enabling them to expand their illegal operations. Another factor they listed is that victims who pay ransom are usually targeted again repeatedly.

Additional risks that accompany ransomware attacks

On a general perspective, different variants of STOP/DJVU ransomware, including the one being reviewed, typically drop other malware on the already infected computer. The most popular ones among them are VIDAR and AZORULT Trojans. These Trojans are notorious for their ability to steal sensitive information such as passwords, browsing history, banking information, cryptocurrency wallets and lots more. The danger in this is that the criminals behind the attack could use such information to commit more fraudulent acts. Oftentimes, such ransomware variants would delete Volume Shadow Copies from the compromised computer while simultaneously modifying the system’s files in such a way that the computer user won’t be able to detect or delete them. They may also make the system vulnerable to further attacks by opening backdoors for malware infiltration at any time. Based on these threats, we strongly advise you to remove BBNM ransomware virus. The safe and effective way to go about it is to boot the infected computer using the Safe Mode with Networking option before activating and scanning any genuine antivirus software. You should also consider downloading RESTORO to help in salvaging some of the damaged Windows OS files wherever possible.

Ransomware Summary

REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE Files encrypted by this ransomware appear with blank icons and new extensions in each folder.

How computers get infected and ways to protect yours

Cybercriminals make use of diverse gimmicks in their attempts to distribute ransomware, such as phishing, malicious email attachments, downloading of pirated software, fake ads clicking, etc. In the case of STOP/DJVU, they often make use of pirated software versions uploaded in online torrents. When such illegal contents are downloaded by unsuspecting computer users, they end up triggering a cyber-attack. To avert such, computer users are advised to only make use of software/programs from the genuine original content producers as advertised on their official websites or their affiliated partners.Cybercriminals also make use of PDF, Excel or Word, among similar formats in crafting and distributing their deceptive email attachments. To make them appear authentic, they may give them names like invoice, pending payment, and order details etc., just to trick their target audience into opening the malware embedded attachments. Also note that cybercriminals would sometimes spoof their sender’s address and disguise it to look like it was sent from a legitimate company and may even compliment it with a fake logo. Based on that, computer users should be cautious whenever they intend to open emails. If such email is not from a recognized source then it should be considered a red flag. You should also stay away from any website that promises to provide solutions that work 100% against STOP/DJVU variants. Such sites are usually dubious and they often have ulterior motive of spreading other variants of malware. So far, only tools from Emsisoft and DiskTuna have proven effective in decrypting such files. Lastly, you should be proactive by installing any genuine antivirus and regularly scanning your PC with it. By so doing, you would keep your computer safe at all times.

Remove BBNM Ransomware Virus and Also Decrypt Your Files

The recommended way to remove BBNM ransomware virus is to boot the infected computer in Safe Mode with Networking before running an antivirus on it. This process will enhance its ability to do a thorough job of scanning the system and removing the ransomware completely. As stated earlier the use of RESTORO as a tool to be used in restoring damaged files is highly recommended. Now you’ve finalized BBNM ransomware virus removal, it is time to do the following:

Inform any relevant law enforcement agency nearest to you.Make use of any data backup available to you.Study more about STOP/DJVU virus and how affected files could be repaired.You should change all passwords associated with the compromised computer.

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.

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove BBNM Ransomware Virus 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, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube. Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users Now, you can search for and remove BBNM 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 security program such as INTEGO Antivirus. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.

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 8/8.1/10/11 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.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 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.

Decrypt BBNM files

Fix and open large BBNM files easily:

It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.

STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide

STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. BBNM Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like BPTO, ISWR, ISZA, BPSM, ZOUU, MBTF, ZNSM (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie. Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible. In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt BBNM files, follow the given tutorial.

Meanings of decryptor’s messages

The BBNM decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages: Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID] This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor’s database. No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible. Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future. If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn’t available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your BBNM extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.

Victims of BBNM Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:

In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.

If you can’t find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up “[your country name] report cyber crime”. This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities. Another recommendation is to contact your country’s or region’s federal police or communications authority.