What Is ZNSM Virus?
Znsm virus is a type of malicious software (ransomware) that infects computers and encrypts files, making them inaccessible until the user pays a ransom to the cybercriminals. It is typically spread through phishing emails, malicious links, and exploit kits. It targets Windows systems and spreads through a network of compromised machines. This virus uses the _readme.txt note and the .znsm file extension for encryption.
Read this article to learn more about it and how you can remove it and fix your files.
Znsm Virus – Why Is My Windows Infected?
Znsm ransomware is a type of malicious software that infects Windows systems using obfuscators and encrypts files, making them inaccessible. It then demands a ransom payment from the user in exchange for a decryption key to unlock the encrypted files. It is important to note that paying the ransom does not guarantee that the files will be unlocked, and it is not recommended to do so.
Znsm Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
Two main ways exist which cause an infection with the Znsm virus:
- If it is sent to you as an e-mail attachment or a URL.
- By being downloaded from a shady site.
Znsm ransomware is typically spread through malicious email attachments, malicious websites, and software downloads from unverified sites. It can even be spread through legitimate websites that have been hacked.
Znsm Virus – What Does It Do?
Znsm Ransomware is a malicious virus that encrypts all of the files on the infected computer and then demands a ransom in exchange for the decryption key. The virus also changes the file extensions of the encrypted files to “.znsm”. Its malicious files may exist in the following directories of Windows:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
The Znsm Ransomware virus also adds a file named “_readme.txt” to each folder with an encrypted file that contains instructions on how to pay the ransom and decrypt the files.
The virus may also createe value entries in the Run and RunOnce Windows Registries, that have the following location:
- 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
What Are .znsm Files
The .zsnm encrypted files are files that have been encrypted using the AES encryption algorithm. This encryption method is designed to keep files secure and private by using a combination of symmetric-key algorithms and public-key cryptography. The virus may attack the following files to encrypt them:
- Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Audio (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Picture file kinds (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Archive file formats (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Documents of different types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Others.
The files may look like shown in the example image below:
How to Open .znsm Files
There is no guaranteed way to open .znsm virus encrypted files without a decryption key. However, you can try to use a data recovery software or system backup to recover your files, as the ransomware may not have completely destroyed the original files. Additionally, you can contact the ransomware authors, if they provide a free decryption key, or you can purchase a decryption key from them – something which is not reccommended.
What To Do If My Files Are .znsm?
The best way to deal with this ransomware attack is to remove the malicious software from your computer and restore your .znsm files from a backup. If you do not have a backup, then you may be able to use a reputable decryption tool to try to decrypt your files.
However, since DJVU is a relatively new ransomware, there is currently no free tool available for cracking its cipher, unless your decryption key is offline.
Znsm Virus – Details
| Name | Znsm 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 | .znsm |
| 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 Znsm Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .znsm extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
How To Protect Windows from Znsm In The Future?
The best way to protect yourself against DJVU ransomware and other malicious software is to make sure that your system is always up-to-date with the latest security updates, and to keep an up-to-date antivirus program installed. Also, it is important to know how you can safely store your files to protect them from ransomware.
How to Remove Znsm Virus?
The best way to remove Znsm virus is to use a reliable antivirus program. You can also try manually removing the virus by deleting any suspicious or malicious files related to it using the guide below. However, this method is only recommended for advanced users.
Once you have installed the anti-malware program, you should run a full system scan to detect any malicious files associated with the Znsm ransomware. After the scan is complete, the program should be able to quarantine and remove any malicious files it finds.
Once you have removed the DJVU ransomware, you should change all of your passwords and make sure to update your security software. You should also make sure to backup your data regularly in case of future attacks.
How to Decrypt / Fix .znsm Files?
The .znsm files are encrypted and they have either online or offline decryption key. To try to decrypt them, you can see the DJVU Ransomware decryption steps or the video guide below.
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 Znsm with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Znsm 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 Znsm 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 Znsm 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 Znsm
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Znsm.
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 Znsm 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.
Znsm-FAQ
What is Znsm Ransomware?
Znsm 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 Znsm 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 Znsm Infect?
Via several ways.Znsm 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 Znsm 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 .Znsm files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Znsm 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 .Znsm files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Znsm" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Znsm 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 Znsm 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 Znsm ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Znsm 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 Znsm 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 Znsm Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Znsm 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 Znsm 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.
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