How to remove Moroccan Dragon Ransomware and decrypt .vico files

What is Moroccan Dragon Ransomware

Moroccan Dragon Ransomware is a malicious program designed to encrypt files on an infected computer and demand a ransom for their decryption. Unlike typical malware, it targets a wide range of file types, including documents, photos, videos, and databases. Once it infiltrates a system, it modifies the files by adding a .vico extension, rendering them inaccessible to the user. The original filenames are altered, transforming something like 1.jpg into 1.jpg.vico. This particular ransomware employs advanced encryption algorithms that create a significant hurdle for victims wishing to regain access to their data. Encrypted files cannot be accessed without a unique decryption key, which the attackers hold. Following the encryption process, the ransomware creates a ransom note file, named case_id.txt, typically placed in various directories throughout the computer and sometimes even replacing the desktop background with instructions. Astonishingly, Moroccan Dragon was found to be in a developmental phase during which critical ransom demand details such as the cryptocurrency wallet address and contact information were missing from the ransom notes, highlighting some operational flaws.

Decrypting files with a .vico extension presents a considerable challenge. As of now, there are no publicly available decryption tools specifically tailored for Moroccan Dragon Ransomware. This reinforces the generally observed pattern in ransomware attacks where decryption is often impossible without the attackers’ cooperation. Despite this, victims are strongly advised against paying the ransom as it not only funds criminal activities but also does not guarantee that the attackers will provide the necessary decryption tool or key. The safest method to recover from such an attack remains having robust, offline backups of all critical data. Meanwhile, cybersecurity researchers continue to explore vulnerabilities within this ransomware to develop potential decryption solutions. For those seeking immediate resolution, recovery efforts are best focused on restoring data from these backups rather than engaging with the attackers. Implementing robust cybersecurity practices is crucial in mitigating the risk of such infections, emphasizing the need for vigilance and regular data backups.

How Moroccan Dragon Ransomware infects computers

Moroccan Dragon Ransomware typically infiltrates computers using a combination of phishing tactics and social engineering techniques. Cybercriminals often disguise the ransomware as harmless files or bundle it with legitimate-looking software and media, tricking users into downloading and executing it. This can occur through malicious email attachments, deceptive advertisements, or compromised websites that initiate drive-by downloads. In some cases, the ransomware might be distributed via backdoor trojans or malicious links found in spam emails and messages. Once executed, Moroccan Dragon encrypts files on the victim’s system, appending the “.vico” extension, and displays a ransom note demanding cryptocurrency payment for decryption. To mitigate such risks, it is crucial for users to exercise caution when opening unsolicited emails, downloading files from unverified sources, and to maintain updated antivirus software to detect and block potential threats.

1. Download Moroccan Dragon Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .vico files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like Moroccan Dragon Ransomware

Moroccan Dragon Ransomware files:


case_id.txt
{randomname}.exe


Moroccan Dragon Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .vico files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .vico files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .vico files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with Moroccan Dragon Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .vico files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like Moroccan Dragon Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. Moroccan Dragon Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro