01flip Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

01flip is a dangerous and highly targeted strain of ransomware that surfaced through submissions to cybersecurity databases and analyst communities. This file-encrypting malware hijacks access to your personal or business data, scrambles files using strong encryption, and appends the extension .01flip. Victims then receive a ransom note titled RECOVER-YOUR-FILE.TXT, demanding payment in exchange for a decryption key.

Like most modern ransomware variants, 01flip operates quietly in the background until encryption is complete—leaving behind unusable files, a ransom note, and a choice: pay or lose everything. It shares characteristics with known families like Phobos, LockBit, and Dharma, but has distinct file-naming behavior and communication tactics.

Related article: DarkHack Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

How 01flip Modifies and Encrypts Files?

Once inside your system, 01flip systematically encrypts a wide range of file types, including:

• Documents: .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .pdf
  
• Images: .jpg, .png, .bmp
  
• Media files: .mp4, .avi, .mp3
  
• Databases and spreadsheets

Also read: Backups Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

File Renaming Pattern

Encrypted files follow this structure:

CopyEdit

example.docx → example.docx.01flip

Each victim gets a unique identifier embedded into the filename. This identifier is likely used by the attackers to match payments with decryption keys.

Full Text of 01flip Ransom Note

After encryption, users find a file named RECOVER-YOUR-FILE.TXT placed on the desktop and within infected directories. Here’s the complete message:

== IMPORTANT ==

Your files have been encrypted. Do not attempt to recover them yourself, as this may cause irreversible damage.

Once we receive payment, we will immediately provide the decryption key to restore your data. 

Every hour of delay increases the risk of permanent data loss.

Email:

    >> [email protected]

Session (https://getsession.org):

    >> 0561d34b9148f57e5565aea8c98b66152164c3224879ec66bbd70ed74cb145883a

Cipher:

    >> slWDZoiQD8OqrB5D730VcOUdeX1wV+sAoC6xh0T4/… (base64-encoded blob)

This message is crafted to instill fear and urgency. The ciphered block likely contains either encrypted proof data or a mechanism to identify the user in the decryption process.

Contact Channels Used by 01flip Operators

The attackers offer two methods of communication:

• Email: [email protected]
  
• Session App: A privacy-focused messaging ID on https://getsession.org
  

They discourage any third-party assistance, warning it could lead to higher costs or data loss. This tactic is standard across many ransomware operations and meant to isolate victims.

Scope of Damage Caused by 01flip

01flip primarily targets:

• Windows systems—the most common attack vector.
  
• QNAP and Synology NAS devices—especially those exposed to the internet or lacking firmware updates.
  
• Small business networks—where backups and security are often lacking.
  

Though Linux and macOS have not been widely affected, NAS systems running Unix-based firmware may still be at risk.

Warning Signs of 01flip Infection

• File extensions suddenly include .01flip and long UUIDs.
  
• Files no longer open in their default apps.
  
• A ransom note named RECOVER-YOUR-FILE.TXT appears.
  
• CPU and disk usage spikes temporarily.
  
• Backups and shadow copies may be deleted.
  

Infection Vectors and How 01flip Spreads

01flip appears to leverage multiple infection vectors typical of modern ransomware:

• Email phishing with malicious attachments or links.
  
• Pirated software and game cracks bundled with malware.
  
• Fake update prompts for browsers or Adobe software.
  
• Malvertising (ads leading to compromised download sites).
  
• Exploitation of outdated software and vulnerable services.
  
• Brute force attacks on exposed RDP and NAS devices.
  

These methods closely resemble the tactics used by Phobos and Dharma ransomware groups.

What Makes 01flip Dangerous?

• No public decryption key exists for .01flip files as of this writing.
  
• Files are encrypted using strong, likely hybrid encryption (AES + RSA).
  
• Payment does not guarantee successful decryption.
  
• Delay in action could result in permanent data loss or further malware infection.
  

Antivirus Detection of 01flip

The following detections have been observed via public databases and AV scan tools:

Always verify using the latest definitions, as threat signatures evolve quickly.

Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks

1. Backups: Keep at least two offline and offsite backup versions.
   
2. Patch systems regularly to fix vulnerabilities.
   
3. Install reliable antivirus with real-time ransomware protection.
   
4. Avoid pirated software and unknown USB drives.
   
5. Disable macros in Office unless absolutely necessary.
   
6. Segment networks and protect NAS devices behind a firewall.
   
7. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
   

Removal Strategy for 01flip

1. Disconnect from the Internet immediately.
   
2. Use trusted AV software such as:
   
   • Malwarebytes
     
   • Combo Cleaner
     
   • Kaspersky Rescue Disk
     
3. Delete known suspicious files or scripts.
   
4. Do not rename or modify encrypted files.
   
5. Restore from verified, unaffected backups.
   

Using Phobos Decryptor to Recover Files

If you don’t have backups, the Phobos Decryptor (commercial tool) offers a potential solution. It’s designed to handle strains like 01flip that mimic Phobos/Dharma behavior.

Why Use It?

• Supports NAS and QNAP file recovery.
  
• Preserves original filenames and directory structure.
  
• Does not require command-line knowledge.
  
• Can be guided by live support staff.
  

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Phobos Decryptor

1. Purchase and Download
   Contact us and confirm a secure purchase.
   
2. Install With Admin Rights
   Run the setup file as administrator on the infected machine.
   
3. Connect Securely
   The tool auto-links to a secure server to retrieve decryption parameters.
   
4. Input Victim ID
   Found in the ransom note (after the filename). Enter it into the tool.
   
5. Start Decryption
   Click “Decrypt” and let the tool work through your files.
   

Also read: Helper Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

Why Phobos Decryptor Is Trusted by Experts?

• No Technical Skill Needed
  Intuitive UI walks users through recovery.
  
• Full File Integrity
  Files are decrypted without alteration or corruption.
  
• Cross-Platform Recovery
  Especially helpful for NAS volumes hit by ransomware.
  
• Privacy-Conscious and Lawful
  Avoids the risks of funding cybercrime by not paying ransoms.
  

Final Takeaways and Safety Checklist

• Detect early: Spot .01flip file renaming fast.
  
• Disconnect immediately: Halt spread across networks.
  
• Avoid DIY tools: Risk of damaging encrypted files.
  
• Use trusted AV: Remove malware remnants before recovery.
  
• Recover with Phobos Decryptor (if no backups exist).
  
• Prevent future threats: Stay patched, secure NAS, and back up regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I decrypt .01flip files for free?
Currently, no free decryption tool exists for this extension.

Is it safe to pay the ransom?
Not recommended. Many victims report non-functional keys or additional demands.

Is 01flip linked to Phobos or Dharma?
Its behavior is nearly identical, but it may be a new fork or variant.

How do I know if my system is infected?
Look for .01flip file extensions and the RECOVER-YOUR-FILE.TXT ransom note.

Can I restore files from my NAS backups?
Yes—if backups were not encrypted. Keep backups offline to avoid exposure.

Is Phobos Decryptor guaranteed to work?
It’s effective in many cases, but success depends on the extent of encryption and disk integrity.