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DEMakop Ransomware: Critical Insights & Rapid Recovery Solutions
Makop Ransomware is one of the most aggressive ransomware variants, targeting businesses of all sizes with rapid encryption and extortion tactics. Learn how it works, see real attack examples, and—if your systems are compromised—let our experts help you restore encrypted data and get back to business.
What is MAKOP Ransomware?
If your files are locked, and your file names have strange extensions added to them, it could mean your system is infected with MAKOP ransomware. The surest sign of an infection is a ransom note demanding payment in Bitcoin that mentions the name “MAKOP.”
MAKOP Ransomware first appeared in 2020 as an offshoot of the PHOBOS variant, and has infected a number of computers since then. Files encrypted by MAKOP often have the extension “.makop”. You may also notice that your desktop wallpaper has changed. MAKOP uses RSA encryption. There are no known free decryption tools capable of decrypting files encrypted by MAKOP.
Persistence Mechanisms
Installs hidden tools to maintain long-term access and re-infect systems.
Spreads Through Networks
Targets entire IT infrastructures, not just single devices.
Rapid Encryption
One of the fastest ransomware encryption speeds, making attacks harder to stop.
Why You Shouldn’t Attempt to Fix It Alone
If MAKOP ransomware has hit your business, taking the wrong steps can cause permanent data
loss or legal risks. Like a crime scene, a ransomware attack must be preserved—tampering
with encrypted files, attempting self-recovery, or engaging with attackers can destroy
critical evidence and reduce your chances of recovery.
The right response in the first moments after a MAKOP attack can make the difference
between full recovery and permanent data loss. Follow these critical steps to protect your
data and maximize your chances of restoring operations.
If you find a “ReadMe” note on your system showing information like the above, you’ve likely suffered a MAKOP Ransomware attack.
YOU MUST NOT ATTEMPT TO TOUCH, RESTORE OR OVERWRITE THE DATA.
What steps do I take if my data is encrypted by MAKOP?
If you’ve fallen victim to ransomware, follow these crucial steps:
Request 24/7 Ransomware Recovery Help
Get expert guidance to assess, contain, and recover safely.
Isolate Infected Systems
Disconnect infected devices to stop the spread. Avoid self-recovery.
Preserve Evidence Immediately
Keep ransom notes & logs. Do not restart or modify anything.
MAKOP ransomware statistics & facts
RANSOM AMOUNTS
Not much is known about the gangs that operate MAKOP, since this is a relatively new variant. The hackers using MAKOP seem to target a wide variety of organizations
The average MAKOP ransom amount is somewhere around $15,000. Ransoms are demanded in the form of Bitcoin. Quick-buy methods of purchasing Bitcoin using credit card or PayPal often carry an additional fee of up to 10%.
AVERAGE LENGTH
MAKOP causes longer than average downtime. This is partly due to the need to communicate with attackers manually.
For most ransomware victims, downtime ends up being the most expensive part of a ransomware attack. It can also cause significant damage to a company’s reputation if the attack is publicized.
The best possible outcome in a ransomware attack situation is to get your system back online as quickly and securely as possible. The best way to do this is to call in experts who have experience dealing with MAKOP ransomware, and have them handle the removal and restoration process.
CASE OUTCOMES
In our experience, a successful ransom payment usually results in getting a working Avaddon decryptor. Decryptor tools do take work to maintain, however, so not all attackers have working tools.
The ransomware gangs we have documented have consistently delivered working MAKOP decryptors after the successful completion of ransom payments. This is not the case for all hackers, however, because decryptor tools usually require maintenance with updates.
Knowing the reputation of the specific gang you are dealing with can help to avoid situations where a ransom is paid, but the decryptor does not work, or no decryptor is provided.
COMMON ATTACK VECTORS
The most common attack vector for MAKOP ransomware is phishing.
How to identify MAKOP ransomware
This is an average MAKOP ransomware note. (With slight redaction in the interest of public safety)
MAKOP decryptor demonstration
This is a technical demo of the MAKOP Decryptor. Copyright by BeforeCryptExperiencing Ransomware or Cyber Breach?
Get Help NowFrequently asked questions
Decryption depends on the ransomware variant. In some cases, publicly available decryption tools exist, but not all attacks have a known solution. You can submit a free ransomware recovery request, and we will check for possible decryption methods.
