Avast Decryption Tool for Stampado — Compatibility, Usage, and Tips

Using Avast’s Decryption Tool to Recover from Stampado RansomwareStampado (also known as StampadoCrypt) is a strain of ransomware that encrypts files and appends an extension or otherwise changes filenames, then demands payment for a decryption key. If your system has been affected, Avast provides a free decryption tool that can help recover files encrypted by certain versions of Stampado — but success depends on factors like the ransomware variant, whether files were partially overwritten, and whether backups exist. This article explains how Stampado works, when Avast’s decryption tool can help, step-by-step recovery instructions, precautions to take, and options if decryption fails.

What is Stampado ransomware?

Stampado is a family of ransomware that first appeared in 2016 and has seen multiple variants. It typically:

• Encrypts a wide range of file types (documents, photos, databases, etc.).
• Modifies filenames (commonly appending an extension) and drops ransom notes with payment instructions.
• Uses symmetric or asymmetric encryption, depending on the variant and configuration.
• Sometimes allows attackers to customize ransom amounts and payment deadlines through builder tools available on underground forums.

Key point: Avast’s decryption tool works only on specific Stampado variants for which Avast’s researchers recovered or reconstructed the decryption routine.

When the Avast decryption tool can help

• If the infected files were encrypted by a Stampado variant recognized by Avast.
• If encrypted files have not been overwritten or corrupted beyond the encryption process.
• If you have sample encrypted files and original unencrypted copies (these can assist forensic tools in certain cases, though Avast’s tool usually targets recognized markers).

Not all cases are recoverable. Newer or customized Stampado builds may use different encryption keys or algorithms that the tool cannot handle. If attackers used unique keys per victim and those keys are not recoverable, the tool won’t succeed.

Preparations — before you run the tool

1. Isolate the infected devices:

   • Disconnect affected machines from networks (Wi‑Fi, wired, cloud drives) to prevent spread and limit further encryption.

2. Do not pay the ransom:

   • Paying encourages criminals and offers no guarantee of recovery.

3. Make safe backups:

   • Copy encrypted files (and ransom notes) to an external drive or other secure media. Work on copies only; never delete original encrypted files until recovery is complete.

4. Identify the ransomware:

   • Note file extensions, ransom note filenames and contents, and any ransom server or contact addresses. This helps confirm whether Stampado is the culprit.

5. Update your security software:

   • Run a full system scan with a reputable antivirus/anti‑malware tool (Avast, Malwarebytes, etc.) to remove active ransomware components before attempting decryption.

Step-by-step: Using Avast’s Stampado decryption tool

1. Download from Avast:

   • Get the official Avast Stampado decryption tool from Avast’s “Ransomware Decryption Tools” page or their support site. Only use the official Avast download to avoid fake tools.

2. Verify the tool:

   • Check the file signature (if available) and download only over a trusted network. If possible, download on a clean machine and transfer the tool to the infected system using removable media.

3. Create a working folder:

   • Place copies of encrypted files into a folder for processing (again, never delete originals).

4. Run the tool as administrator:

   • Right‑click the executable and choose “Run as administrator” (Windows). The tool typically opens a simple interface.

5. Select target files or folders:

   • Point the tool to the folder containing encrypted files. Some tools allow scanning entire drives; others prefer specific folders.

6. Follow on‑screen prompts:

   • The tool will attempt to detect Stampado markers and apply the appropriate decryption routine. This may take time depending on the number and size of files.

7. Review results:

   • Successful decryptions will restore files to their original state or create decrypted copies. The tool usually reports which files were successfully decrypted and which weren’t.

8. Verify file integrity:

   • Open several decrypted files to ensure they work correctly. For large databases or complex files, check application-level integrity (e.g., open a Word doc, load a database).

9. Clean up and restore:

   • Once you confirm successful decryption, replace encrypted copies with decrypted versions on the system. Run another antivirus scan to ensure no remnants remain.

If decryption fails

• Confirm variant compatibility:

  • Double‑check that the sample matches Stampado variants supported by Avast’s tool (Avast’s support documentation usually lists supported variants and file extensions).

• Try alternative free tools:

  • Check other reputable vendors’ free decryption tools (No More Ransom, Kaspersky, Emsisoft, Trend Micro). Some projects have complementary coverage.

• Restore from backups:

  • If you have offline backups (external drives, immutable cloud backups, or system images), restore clean copies after wiping the system and reinstalling the OS.

• Professional help:

  • Consider a professional incident response or data recovery service, especially for business-critical data. They can perform deeper forensic analysis and may recover data in complex cases.

• Last resort — pay the ransom:

  • Not recommended. Payment funds further crime and provides no guarantee. If decided, consult legal and cybersecurity advisors first.

Preventing future ransomware infections

• Maintain frequent, tested backups:

  • Use the 3-2-1 rule: three copies of data, on two different media, with one copy offsite. Ensure backups are isolated from daily systems.

• Keep systems and software patched:

  • Apply OS and application updates promptly.

• Use layered security:

  • Endpoint protection, EDR, email filters, and network segmentation reduce risk.

• User training:

  • Phishing remains a leading vector. Train users to identify suspicious emails, links, and attachments.

• Use least privilege:

  • Avoid running daily accounts with administrative privileges; restrict access to critical resources.

Common FAQs

• Can Avast decrypt all Stampado infections?

  • No. Avast’s tool only supports specific Stampado variants for which a decryption method exists.

• Will running the tool make things worse?

  • Generally no, if you work on copies and follow instructions. Always keep original encrypted files untouched until recovery attempts finish.

• Is paying the ransom safe?

  • No. It’s risky and discouraged.

Final notes

Using Avast’s decryption tool can restore files for victims of known Stampado variants, but success depends on the exact variant, file condition, and whether attackers used recoverable keys. Prioritize isolation, backups, and safe procedures. If you’re unsure about variant identification or recovery steps, consider contacting a reputable incident response firm to avoid accidental data loss.

If you want, provide one encrypted file plus its original (if available) and the ransom note’s text (copy/paste) — I can help check variant compatibility and advise whether the Avast tool is likely to work.