Taoy Ransomware Encrypts Victim Files

If you find yourself unable to access your files, images, or documents due to an extension ".taoy," your computer has fallen prey to the STOP/DJVU ransomware. This malicious software encrypts personal documents on the victim's system, appending the ".taoy" extension to them. Subsequently, a message emerges, offering data decryption in exchange for a Bitcoin payment. These instructions are outlined in a file named "_readme.txt," conveniently placed on the victim's desktop.

The TAOY ransomware operates as a file-encrypting malware, locking away data like images, videos, and essential productivity files (such as .doc, .docx, .xls, .pdf). It alters file extensions to ".taoy," rendering them inaccessible. Once the ransomware infiltrates the system, it scans for susceptible files and encrypts them, culminating in the data becoming inaccessible.

As the TAOY ransomware wraps its grip around your files, it introduces the "readme.txt" file, housing a ransom note and directives on how to reach the ransomware creators. The victims are urged to get in touch with the malware developers using the email addresses support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. The ultimate goal is to prompt the victims to engage with the cybercriminals, who demand a ransom payment in return for data recovery.

Taoy Ransom Note Asks for $490 in Initial Ransom Payment

The full text of the Taoy ransom note reads as follows:

ATTENTION!

Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-oTIha7SI4s
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@fishmail.top

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelp@airmail.cc

How Can Ransomware Like Taoy Infiltrate Your System?

Ransomware like Taoy can infiltrate your system through a variety of methods, taking advantage of vulnerabilities and user actions. Here are some common ways ransomware can make its way into your system:

• Phishing Emails: Cybercriminals often distribute ransomware through phishing emails. These emails may contain malicious attachments or links that, when clicked or opened, execute the ransomware on your system. The emails might appear to be from legitimate sources, enticing you to open the attachment or click the link.
• Malicious Downloads: Ransomware can also be delivered through malicious downloads from compromised or fake websites. When you download and execute files from these sources, you inadvertently install the ransomware onto your system.
• Exploit Kits: Exploit kits are malicious toolkits that target known vulnerabilities in software applications. If your system hasn't been updated with the latest security patches, these kits can exploit these vulnerabilities to deliver ransomware.
• Drive-By Downloads: Drive-by downloads occur when you visit a compromised or malicious website, and the website automatically downloads and installs the ransomware onto your system without your consent.
• Malvertising: Cybercriminals can use malicious advertisements, or malvertisements, to spread ransomware. These ads can appear on legitimate websites and may contain malicious code that initiates a ransomware download when the ad is clicked.
• Software Vulnerabilities: Ransomware can take advantage of unpatched or outdated software with known vulnerabilities. If you're not regularly updating your operating system and applications, your system becomes more susceptible to ransomware attacks.
• Social Engineering: Attackers may manipulate you into willingly downloading and installing ransomware. This could involve convincing you to download a fake software update or to run a seemingly harmless file.
• Infected External Devices: Ransomware can spread through infected external devices like USB drives and external hard drives. When you connect these devices to your system, the ransomware can transfer and infect your files.