What Is ISZA Virus?
ISZA virus is the latest variant of the STOP/DJVU ransomware family. The ransomware mainly relies on malspam (malicious spam) and fake software downloads to propagate across Windows computers. You either have downloaded a program from a download platform, or you executed a malicious email attachments which activated the infection with Isza ransomware.
Ransomware such as Isza encrypt files with strong encryption algorithms that can only be decrypted by specially crafted decryption tools, usually developed by the hackers themselves. However, we don’t recommend getting in touch with the ransomware operators. In most cases, victims who pay the ransom don’t receive the decryption key. Furthermore, collected ransoms will only enable cybercriminals to continue with the malicious activities.
The best way to recover your files is from a previously created backup, or by attempting the alternative methods we have listed in the removal part of the article. Continue reading for more details.
Isza Virus – Why Is My PC Infected?
Ransomware such as Isza may end up on your computer via multiple ways, including:
- By being downloaded from a shady site.
- If it is sent to you as an e-mail attachment or a URL.
In case the virus is sent to you via email, there is a high chance that it could pretend to be one of the following important documents:
- Receipts.
- Work-related files.
- Invoices.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
Isza virus may also be downloaded from some type of a shady software download site, if the victim is looking for files of executable origin, like the following:
- Cracked portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
- Software patches.
- Self extracting archives or regular archives.
- Fake installation files.
- Key generator (or Keygen).
Isza Virus – What Does It Do?
The Isza virus may first download its payload files, which are used for its virus activities. They may be located in the following directories of Windows:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
Isza virus may also use the _readme.txt ransom note which is also among the dropped files:
Isza ransomware could also drop value entries in teh Windows Registries, known as Run and RunOnce:
- 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 .isza Files
The .Isza files are encoded using the AES encryption algorithm. What this threat does is scan for the files and then encrypt them based on their file type:
- 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 .isza Files
Once the encryption process is completed, Isza leaves your files looking like the following:
Picture.jpg.Isza
The files cannot be opened in any way, as their core structure data is changed, since they are encrypted.
What To Do If My Files Are .isza?
If your files are encrypted with the .Isza file extension, then their data is changed by the AES cipher
That is why you should not try to change the extension and change it in any way, as it may permanently break the files.
Isza Virus – Details
| Name | Isza 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 | .isza |
| 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 Isza ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .Isza extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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How To Protect Windows from Isza In The Future?
Isza ransomware is a dangerous threat and to protect your Windows computer, you will need to learn how to safely store your files to protect them from ransomware viruses after firstly removing the threat safely using the guide here.
How to Remove Isza Virus?
Isza ransomware can be deleted from your device by following the instructions below. They contain methods that will help you get rid of the ransomware either by yourself or automatically. For the best removal and future protection, the automatic method is highly recommended, as it includes scanning your machine using a professional anti-malware program.
How to Decrypt / Fix .isza Files?
The .Isza files can be decoded unless you have the decryption key. This can happen if the key is offline-based. In this case, you can use the STOP Ransomware decryption steps or the instructions in the video guide below. See them for more information.
Also note that the chances to get your files restored on your own or with the help of a company/a professional that advertises decryption capabilities are nearly non-existent. What most such companies and professionals do is buy a decryption tool from the ransomware operators, and add a markup to the ransom amount upon charging you for their decryption services. In other words, trusting anyone, other than an officially released decrypter, with the decryption of your files is utterly pointless. We will update this article once we have more information on possible official decryption.
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Step 1: Scan for Isza with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Isza 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 Isza 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 Isza 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 Isza
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Isza.
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 Isza 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.
Isza-FAQ
What is Isza Ransomware?
Isza 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 Isza 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 Isza Infect?
Via several ways.Isza 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 Isza 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 .Isza files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Isza 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 .Isza files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Isza" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Isza 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 Isza 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 Isza ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Isza 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 Isza 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 Isza Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Isza 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 Isza 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.
Happy New !! I got this stupid .Isza Yeah! When you get the decryption fix I’ll be your guinea pig my data will be waiting.
Thanks for the info great post.
Thank you – Buck