What Is NNUZ Virus?
The Nnuz virus is a STOP/DJVU version. These are a family of hundreds of ransomware viruses that have the same code but use different file extensions after they get inside your computer without your knowledge and use encryption on your files. This variant uses _readme.txt ransom note and .nnuz file extension. The primary purpose of the virus is to get you to pay hundreds of dollars in the form of the cryptocurrency Bitcoin is a form of an extortion fee to the cyber criminals who have infected your computer so that they can send you back a decryption key which will reverse the process and fix the files.
Read this article if you don’t understand how did this virus in crypto files, how it goes in your computer in the first place and what you can do to improve your situation.
Nnuz Virus Summary
| Name | Nnuz virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB – more detections of this virus on VirusTotal |
| File Extension | .Nnuz |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The Nnuz Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .Nnuz extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Nnuz Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
Nnuz virus has one main purpose and it is to attack your files. Other recent variants of the same ransomware campaign include the Eyrv, Vlff and Miia infections. All these strains have the same code as Nnuz virus.
Ransomware infections aim to end up on computer systems without even notifying people. The ransomware activation file may have been sent to you in the form of an email attachment, that portrays an important document, for example:
- Work-related files.
- Receipts.
- Invoices.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
These documents can be designed to contain malicious macros in them. When this malicious code is downloaded and run on a computer system, it may trigger the following infection process:
Another method of infection used by STOP/DJVU viruses, like the Nnuz virus is via uploads on various third-party websites that advertise malware as free downloads. You may be seeking different types of files and end up with ransomware infection on your machine, for example:
- Self extracting archives or regular archives.
- Fake installation files.
- Software patches.
- Cracked portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
- Key generator (or Keygen).
These files often contain the malicious script that triggers the infection with Nnuz ransomware.
Nnuz Virus – What Does It Do?
Once the Nnuz virus has already caused an infection of your computer, the first thing it does is run a process that connects to a remote server that is hosted by the cybercriminals who have created this malware. From there, the Nnuz virus downloads the malicious files and they could reside on your computer under different, often random names and in the following folders:
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %System%
- %system32%
Another file that is also dropped on your computer system is the _readme.txt ransom note, that has the following contents:
Be advised, that this virus may also attack your Windows Registry Editor, more specifically add value strings in the following registries:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Doing this will allow the Nnuz ransomware to be run each time you turn on your computer.
What Are .Nnuz Files
The .Nnuz files are the result of this virus encoding your important data. They are copies of your original files, with a significant difference that they are encrypted, using the AES encryption algorithm. This means that the core structure data of the files is altered and they now can only be recovered, using an online or off-line decryption key.
The main files that are attacked by the virus are encrypted, based on their file extensions:
- Audio (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Picture file kinds (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archive file formats (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Documents of different types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Others.
After .Nnuz virus finishes encrypting your files, it leaves them looking like the example below displays:
Picture.jpg.Nnuz
Keep reading this article to learn more about how you can get rid of this virus and how you can try to fix your files.
How to Remove Nnuz Virus?
How to Decrypt .Nnuz Files?
In case your decryption key is offline, then you have a significant chance of decrypting your files by using the STOP Ransomware File Decryption Guide. This guide is created with the main idea to explain to you how you can use the official STOP Decryptor, which is created by independent malware researchers and is available for all offline DJVU variants. The same instructions are explained in the video guide that is below for convenience.
Video guide for using the STOP Ransomware Decryptor:
If your key is online, then the decryptor will not work. In this case, we would recommend that you follow the alternative file recovery options that have been explained in this article. They may not come with a 100% chance of recovering your files, but with your help, you could restore at least some of them.
Furthermore, we suggest that if you have any inquiries about this virus, you leave us a comment down below this article. These comments will help us understand your problem and we will try to respond as quickly as we can.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Nnuz with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Nnuz and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Nnuz on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Nnuz there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Nnuz
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Nnuz.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Nnuz aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Nnuz-FAQ
What is Nnuz Ransomware?
Nnuz is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Nnuz Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Nnuz Infect?
Via several ways.Nnuz Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Nnuz is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Nnuz files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Nnuz files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Nnuz files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Nnuz" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Nnuz files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Nnuz Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Nnuz ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Nnuz files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Nnuz Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Nnuz Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Nnuz how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Nnuz ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.
Sono stato infettato da un ransoware nnuz, ho _readme.txt trovando ID del mio blocco dei file. Come posso fare ragazzi dove posso seguire aggiramenti a riguardo alla sblocco dei miei file.