Pezi virus has deemed your files unopenable? Learn about Pezi virus threat in this post to see how you can get rid of it fully and restore your files to normal. You can see instructions for the removal of Pezi virus at the end.
What is Pezi Virus
PeziRansomware is deemed extremely destructive as victims with infected computers cannot open most of their files. Coming from the STOP ransomware family, the virus is known to be corrupting computer machines by making files on them inaccessible. As Pezi Virus Ransomware is an encrypting type of virus, it will put a cipher on your files. File restoration might be possible, but read to see what options you have.
.Pezi Virus
Pezi virus is a virus with a military-class encryption. The algorithm that locks the files could take ages to decrypt. You will know if you have the virus as it shows a ransom note after encryption is complete. Pezi virus is known as .pezi file virus among many victims and its the newest counterpart of the STOP ransomware virus family. Encrypted files will receive .pezi at the end of their names as an extension. That extension is added as a secondary in most cases. The Pezi variant leaves a ransom text, giving instructions to people on how to potentially recover their data by paying.
.pezi File Extension
STOP ransomware creators demand a big sum of money in exchange for getting back your files. .pezi virus file threat could create entries in the Windows Registry to achieve persistence, and might modify Windows data. Every file which is locked will get exactly the .Pezi extension at the back of its name. Documents, banking data, backups, audio and video files will receive the same extension which will confuse the operating system of the user with this non-legitimate extension.
Pezi Virus Summary
| Name | Pezi |
| File Extension | .pezi |
| 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 ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the extension .pezi to them making them inaccessible. Ransom fee wanted as payment. |
| 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
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Pezi. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
Pezi Ransomware – More Details
Pezi Files Virus could infect via different strategies. Most common method for spreading a payload file is via torrent sites and platforms for file download. Free apps and tools found on the Web can be described as useful but open the malicious script for this STOP ransomware instead.
As the latest STOP ransomware variant, the Pezi virus is as aggressive as its predecessors. It infects system files and tries to remain to the system even after an OS reinstallation.
.Pezi files virus will encrypt your data and files and then display a message with instructions in a file placed within folders that have locked files. Hackers want you to pay a ransom fee for the restoration of your files as written inside the ransom demanding message. Newer STOP ransomware variants are almost impossible to be decrypted and files stay locked, especially if they are encrypted with an ONLINE key. In other words, the key is stored Online, and not on your computer machine, so a decryptor cannot find it to work properly. Pezi files ransomware could make entries in the Windows Registry for persistence, and could control Windows processes.
As soon as it infects you computer, Pezi virus may do the following:
- Obtain your usernames and passcodes.
- Check if its ran on another computer or a virtual drive and if so, shuts itself down.
- Obtains your location.
- Obtains your IP address.
- Gets personal information.
When encryption is done the .Pezi files virus will place a ransom message along files across your computer. You can see the contents in the _readme.txt file.
The ransom note inside the text file, states the following:
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
https://we.tl/t-PHmSJZS9ey
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
helpmanager@mail.chReserve e-mail address to contact us:
restoremanager@firemail.ccYour personal ID:
No matter what happens, avoid paying the ransom. Your .Pezi files may not get recovered, and nobody could give you a guarantee that the decryptor will work at all.
Cybercriminals have made the ransomware to encrypt files and add the .Pezi extension to all of them without exception. All file types like documents, archived rars, backup files, pictures, videos and audio files will be encrypted by the Pezi virus variant.
The ransomware is also set to erase all the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system with the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
If your computer is infected with this ransomware and your files are locked, read down here to see how you could potentially restore your files. Be aware that if your files are locked with the ONLINE key, as most newer variants, there is no hope for decryption soon. That should not discourage you to try as most variants are made decryptable by now.
Pezi Virus Removal
In case your computer system got infected with .Pezi File Virus, you should be experienced in removing malware manually. You should get rid of this ransomware as fast as possible before it can have the opportunity to spread further and infect more machines. You should remove the ransomware and follow the instructions guide provided with easy-to-follow steps below.
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Tsetso Mihailov is a tech-geek and loves everything that is tech-related, while observing the latest news surrounding technologies. He has worked in IT before, as a system administrator and a computer repair technician. Dealing with malware since his teens, he is determined to spread word about the latest threats revolving around computer security.
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Step 1: Scan for Pezi with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Pezi 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 Pezi 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 Pezi 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 Pezi
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Pezi.
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 Pezi 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.
Pezi-FAQ
What is Pezi Ransomware?
Pezi 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 Pezi 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 Pezi Infect?
Via several ways.Pezi 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 Pezi 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 .Pezi files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Pezi 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 .Pezi files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Pezi" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Pezi 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 Pezi 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 Pezi ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Pezi 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 Pezi 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 Pezi Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Pezi 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 Pezi 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.
bonsoir,
j’ai pris un virus qui a rendu tous mes fichiers illisibles. il marque une extension .pezi
comment le réparer svp?
merci
You can download and use the free Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP ransomware as Pezi is a strain of this threat. Note that, if your PC has been infected by a strain that locks files with an Online key, this tool won’t decrypt .pezi files. The best alternative to paying a ransom to hackers is to save encrypted files as they are and wait for a solution.