What Is Znto Virus?
Znto virus is a form of malware that encrypts files on a user’s computer and then demands a ransom in exchange for unlocking the files. It is also known as STOP Djvu and is part of the STOP ransomware family. The ransom amount is typically paid in Bitcoin, and the attackers often threaten to delete the files if the ransom is not paid within a certain timeframe. This virus uses the .znto file extension and the _readme.txt file.
Read this article to learn more about Znto virus and how you can fully get rid of it.
Znto Virus – Details
| Name | Znto 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 | .znto |
| 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 Znto Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .znto extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Znto Virus – Why Is My Windows Infected?
The most common way to get infected with Znto ransomware is by opening malicious emails or downloading software from unsecured websites. It can also be spread through malicious online ads and links, as well as infected external devices such as USB drives. The software uses an obfuscator to slip inside your device undetected.
Znto Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
The following ways are the main methods via which an infection with this virus can occur:
- If it is sent to you as an e-mail attachment or a URL.
- By being downloaded from a shady site.
If by e-mail, the Znto virus may infect your device using the following kinds of attachments:
- Invoices.
- Work-related files.
- Receipts.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
If downloaded from the web, the virus may pretend to be a legitimate executable, like:
- Fake installation files.
- Software patches.
- Self extracting archives or regular archives.
- Cracked portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
- Key generator (or Keygen).
Znto Virus – What Does It Do?
Znto virus is a type of malicious software that is used by cyber criminals to encrypt the data of its victims and demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. The virus will scan the computer for all important files and documents, encrypt them, and then display a ransom note on the victim’s desktop demanding payment for the decryption key. The ransom amount usually varies, but is usually in the range of hundreds of dollars. It is important to note that paying the ransom does not guarantee that the files will be decrypted.
When it infects your computer, the virus may download its payload files in the following folders:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
The Znto virus also uses its ransom note file, called _readme.txt, which has the following message:
Znto virus may also attack your Registry Editor, adding value entries in the Registries Run and RunOnce sub-keys:
- 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 .znto Files
Files encrypted by DJVU Ransomware are ones that have been locked with a strong AES encryption algorithm and can no longer be accessed by the user. The ransomware will typically display a message demanding the user to pay a ransom in order to gain access to the files.
What the virus does is scans for the following types of 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.
How to Open .znto Files
Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to open files encrypted by ransomware. The only sure way to regain access to your files is to restore them from a backup that was created prior to the ransomware attack. If you do not have a backup, you may be able to use data recovery software to recover some of the encrypted data. However, the success of data recovery software is not guaranteed, as the ransomware may have permanently damaged the files.
Once encrypted, the files assume the virus’s extension, making them look like the following:
Picture.jpg.znto
What To Do If My Files Are .znto?
If your files have been encrypted by ransomware, the first thing you should do is disconnect your computer from the internet and any other networks. Then, you should contact professional IT security experts to help you with the removal and recovery of your data. It is important to not pay any ransom as this will only encourage the criminals and may result in you not getting your files back.
How To Protect Windows from Znto In The Future?
The best way to protect yourself from Znto virus in the future is to make sure that you are running the latest version of your operating system, your anti-virus software, and other security software. Additionally, you should regularly back up your important files and data, so that if you are attacked by ransomware, you can restore your data from the backup and not be forced to pay the ransom. Finally, be careful when opening emails from unknown sources, as these may contain malicious links or attachments that can spread ransomware and learn how to safely store your files to protect them from ransomware.
How to Remove Znto Virus?
Removing Znto ransomware virus can be difficult. The best way to remove it is to use a reliable anti-malware program to scan your computer for malicious files and delete them. You should also make sure to backup all of your important data to prevent any further data loss. Additionally, you should keep your computer up to date with the latest security updates and make sure to practice safe browsing habits.
How to Decrypt / Fix .znto Files?
If your files are encrypted by this virus, then it is reccomended to see what type of decryption key they are locked. Based on that you can follow the STOP 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 Znto with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Znto 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 Znto 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 Znto 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 Znto
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Znto.
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 Znto 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.
Znto-FAQ
What is Znto Ransomware?
Znto 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 Znto 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 Znto Infect?
Via several ways.Znto 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 Znto 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 .Znto files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Znto 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 .Znto files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Znto" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Znto 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 Znto 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 Znto ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Znto 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 Znto 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 Znto Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Znto 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 Znto 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.
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