What Is Zeoticus 2.0?
Zeoticus 2.0 virus is a dangerous ransomware infection that comes from the Zeoticus Ransomware virus family and its primary goal is to enter your computer system along with encrypting files in it. The main function of this infection is to extort you into paying BitCoin to the cyber-criminals that have made this infection.
Zeoticus 2.0 infection is yet one more variation of the Zeoticus family. So far the infection has been seeing new versions on a regular basis. Whatever the situation may be with Zeoticus virus ransomware, it is a cryptovirus that uses the AES algorithm on all your important files that are used by you. Then, the .2020END expansion is included after the encrypted file names. The ransomware also leaves behind the ransom note README.html in the hope that you will contact these criminals to work out the payment “cost” for your information. The ransom note intends to frighten victims into paying the ransom money and they often give a deadline time to pay, scaring victims by promising to increase the ransom money amount if it expires. Read this post for more details concerning Zeoticus 2.0 infection and to see how you can remove it and attempt to recover information.
Zeoticus 2.0 Summary
| Name | Zeoticus 2.0 also known as AI:Packer.C0226DA21F, Trojan.Krap, Packed.Win32.Krap.b, Hacktool.Win32.Krap.x!c, BScope.Trojan.Staser, Gen:Heur.Ransom.REntS.Gen.1 |
| File Extension | .2020END |
| 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 Zeoticus 2.0 ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .README.html extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | README.html |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Zeoticus 2.0. |
Zeoticus 2.0 Virus – More Information
The Zeoticus 2.0 Infection virus can get in your computer by using two primary techniques:
- By having you download and install the infection from a site.
- Via e-mail links or attachments.
If the infection is via email, the files could be sent to you appearing as if they are extremely important documents of some kind, like:
- Billing.
- Ticket info.
- Financial information
- Invoice for a purchase.
- Cancelled trip.
If the infection is from downloaded and installed because of a a file, the common suspects for being ransomware infection are:.
- Patches.
- Updates.
- Cracks
- Installers.
- Phony images.
- Fake web browser updates.
Once the Zeoticus 2.0 Virus ransomware has already infected your computer system, be advised that it will begin scanning for your information. It will definitely search all the files you use, while avoiding system folders, like %AppData%, %Program Data% and also %Windows%, so that you can still use your computer system to pay ransom. These records normally end up being:
- Audio.
- Documents.
- Image.
- Archive.
- Audio.
- Video.
- Database.
The ransom note of the infection is called README.html and has this text:
—===Zeoticus 2.0===—-
WARNING!
I am truly sorry to inform you that all your important files are crypted.
If you want to recover your encrypted files you need to follow a few steps.
You need to buy bitcoins and send them to the address you receive by mail.
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register,
click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
write to Google how to buy Bitcoin in your country?
in order to guarantee the availability of our key
we can decrypt one file for free
the size of the files other formats will not be free decryption
after payment we will send a decryption program
Do not try to decrypt your files with programs by the decoder,
you will only damage your data and lose them forever.
Only we can decrypt your data, write to the original mails specified in this file,
otherwise you will become a victim of scammers.
outsourse@tutanota.com
outsourse@cock.li
When encrypted the files are modified with data from the encryption language used, which is called AES — advanced encryption standard. It consists of a decryption key, that is unique and utilized to decrypt the information and get the files back to normal. This key is held by the cyber-criminals and it is specifically what they have versus you to extort you into paying the ransom.
The files, secured by the .2020END Virus infection look like the following:
If you are preparing to pay the ransom, don’t. We advise you to backup your data and also wait on the cost-free decryptor for this ransomware to be released. As soon as this is done, you can decrypt your files for free as we will update this article.
Get Rid Of Zeoticus 2.0 Ransomware
The Zeoticus 2.0 Infection can be gotten rid of if you follow the removal steps beneath this post. They have in been developed with the key purpose to aid you to remove this virus step-by-step from your computer. For optimal effectiveness, its recommended to get rid of Zeoticus 2.0 Infection by using an advanced malware elimination software. It will definitely guarantee that you have the ability to remove the virus files and other malicious objects automatically by scanning for them and erasing them.
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 Zeoticus 2.0 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Zeoticus 2.0.
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 Zeoticus 2.0 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.
Zeoticus 2.0-FAQ
What is Zeoticus 2.0 Ransomware?
Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 Infect?
Via several ways.Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 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 .Zeoticus 2.0 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Zeoticus 2.0 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 .Zeoticus 2.0 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Zeoticus 2.0" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Zeoticus 2.0 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 Zeoticus 2.0 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.