This article aims to help you remove aZaZeL ransomware from your computer and restore files that have the .Encrypted file extension added to them.
A new ransomware virus has been detected at the end of June 2017, calling itself aZaZeL. It demands 0.1 BTC ransom payoff to restore the files it has encrypted. These files have the .Encrypted file extension added to them and along with them a file named File_Encryption_Notice.txt is also added which aims to notify victims of their situation. In case you have become a victim of the aZaZeL Virus we advise you to read this article thoroughly.
Threat Summary
| Name | aZaZel |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts the files on the computers infected by it. Demands a payoff of 0.1 BTC for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | A file is dropped on the computer, named File_Encryption_Notice.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss aZaZel. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix 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. |
How Does aZaZeL Virus Spread ?
One particular technique used by the aZaZeL ransomware to infect victims is to utilize Microsoft Word document and in it embed malicious macros. This infects your computer after you click on the “Enable Content” button of the document to read the contents. Usually such documents are not detected if sent as e-mail attachments, simply because the macros within them are heavily obfuscated. Such e-mails may convince victims that the documents are of important nature and they must be opened immediately, for example:
Other methods by which you could end up being a victim of aZaZeL ransomware are to download it as a fake setup, key generators and patches or game cracks.
aZaZeL Ransomware – More Information
Once your computer becomes infected by aZaZeL ransomware, the virus may immediately drop it’s malicious files on the computer infected by it. The main malicious files of aZaZeL has a completely random name and Is .exe file type. This file and other support malicious modules may be dropped in the usually targeted Windows directories, which are:
- %AppData%
- %Windows%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
After the malicious files of aZaZeL ransomware are dropped on the computer of the user, the virus may obtain administrative privileges by injecting malicious code in Windows processes. From there, it may attack the Windows Registry Editor, modifying the Run and RunOnce registry sub-keys, located in:
→ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion
Another malicious activities which the aZaZeL ransomware may perform is to delete the shadow volume copies of the infected computer system by executing Windows Command Prompt commands as an administrator in Windows:
→ vssadmin delete shadows /all /quiet
Among the activity of aZaZeL ransomware is to drop it’s ransom note which is called File_Encryption_Notice.txt and has the following notification to victims:
***
Your files are encrypted!!!
***
Your documents,photos, databases & other important files have been encrypted with
strongest encryption & unique key, generated for this computer.
We offer you to purchase special application for recovery access to your encrypted
files. Getting the decryptor is the only opportunity not to loose your file from pc
forever.
===
Your lock id:
0x[redacted hex][WIN_7]VN:A
===
Without a decryption tool it is imposible to recover your files. So
keep your lock id very safe else you can never recover your files.
It will be better if you note it somewhere outside your pc on the paper.
***
To purchase the decryption tool follow these steps:
***
1.Register a Bitcoin(BTC) wallet at (www.blockchain.info/wallet/new)
(Properly note your Bitcoin wallet address and Identifier address which you require to login to your BTC wallet)
2.If you dont have Bitcoins, you can buy them at (www.coinmama.com)
Here are the detail steps which will help you to buy buitcoins
===
Step 1: Goto (www.coinmama.com/register) and register your account there using your email id.
Step 2: After you register an account, you need to Signup/Login to your coinmama account.
Step 3: Then Choose the amount of Bitcoin (0.1 BTC) you need to buy.
Step 4: Choose a method of payment. You need to select the one of the available methods of payment
(Recommended: Western union or Moneygram)
Step 5: Note the details given for money transfer(eg:account holder’s name, address,etc)
Step 6: Deposit the given amount of money in Western union or Moneygram near your location to the given details.
Step 7: After you deposit the cash, you will receive a transfer receipt with important information (eg:MTCN number).
Step 8: Only then goto next step (i.e. Complete your order) to assure a successful transfer.
Step 9: Copy the exact information as stated on your transfer receipt in the form.
Step 10: Enter your Bitcoin wallet address properly in the form then update order.
Your order will be processed once your transfer clears in their account.
They will update you by email, moments after sending your Bitcoins.
===
Other site to buy Bitcoins (www.localBitcoins.com)
(First time Bitcoin buyers guide available at (https://en.Bitcoin.it/wiki/First-time_buyers_guide)
3.After you buy Bitcoins, transfer Bitcoins to the details given below
Account details:
===
# Amount to transfer: 0.1 BTC(approx.$46 US Dollars)
# Transfer to bitcoin address: 1MaBogxRSscjxsdcsEr6ymtkV9SdGLfuxf
**Check bitcoin address properly before payment**
===
Only after the payment
===
Mail us to receive the decryption tool
Mailing details:
===
# Mail to: azazel-bot@india.com
# Subject: Decryptor Request
# Message: Message us the following details:
1.Your lock id (see at the top)
2.Email id: Your email id in which you wish to receive the decryptor.
3.BTC address: Your bitcoin wallet address from which you have made the payment.
(You can also mail us to get a guide on How to buy Bitcoins)
===
Special Warning!!!
===
Donot try to rename or be oversmart with those encrypted files, else they cant be
decrypted back & you will loose them forever.
#Files EnCrYpTeD by aZaZel
Source: id-ransomware.blogspot.bg
aZaZel Ransomware – Encryption Process
During the encryption process, aZaZel ransomware is very careful not to encrypt files vital for the usage of Windows. The ransomware virus aims to avoid system folders for that matter and only encrypts files that are often used, like the following file types:
→ “PNG .PSD .PSPIMAGE .TGA .THM .TIF .TIFF .YUV .AI .EPS .PS .SVG .INDD .PCT .PDF .XLR .XLS .XLSX .ACCDB .DB .DBF .MDB .PDB .SQL .APK .APP .BAT .CGI .COM .EXE .GADGET .JAR .PIF .WSF .DEM .GAM .NES .ROM .SAV CAD Files .DWG .DXF GIS Files .GPX .KML .KMZ .ASP .ASPX .CER .CFM .CSR .CSS .HTM .HTML .JS .JSP .PHP .RSS .XHTML. DOC .DOCX .LOG .MSG .ODT .PAGES .RTF .TEX .TXT .WPD .WPS .CSV .DAT .GED .KEY .KEYCHAIN .PPS .PPT .PPTX ..INI .PRF Encoded Files .HQX .MIM .UUE .7Z .CBR .DEB .GZ .PKG .RAR .RPM .SITX .TAR.GZ .ZIP .ZIPX .BIN .CUE .DMG .ISO .MDF .TOAST .VCD SDF .TAR .TAX2014 .TAX2015 .VCF .XML Audio Files .AIF .IFF .M3U .M4A .MID .MP3 .MPA .WAV .WMA Video Files .3G2 .3GP .ASF .AVI .FLV .M4V .MOV .MP4 .MPG .RM .SRT .SWF .VOB .WMV 3D .3DM .3DS .MAX .OBJ R.BMP .DDS .GIF .JPG ..CRX .PLUGIN .FNT .FON .OTF .TTF .CAB .CPL .CUR .DESKTHEMEPACK .DLL .DMP .DRV .ICNS .ICO .LNK .SYS .CFG”Source:fileinfo.com
After the encryption process has completed, the virus appends the .Encrypted file extension to the files that have been enciphered. The files can no longer be opened and look like the image at the beginning of this article.
Remove aZaZel Ransomware and Restore .Encrypted Files
Before beginning the removal process of this ransomware infection, we advise you to backup the encrypted files. Then, you can initiate the removal process of the ransomware infection preferably by following the removal manual below. But bear in mind that since aZaZel creates multiple objects and may interfere with important Windows files, a ransomware specific tool should be used to remove the virus automatically.
If you want to restore the files that have been encrypted by this ransomware virus, you can try so if you use the alternative methods which we have suggested in the instructions below. They are located in step “2. Restore files encrypted by aZaZel”.
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for aZaZel with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall aZaZel 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 aZaZel 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 aZaZel 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 aZaZel
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by aZaZel.
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 aZaZel 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.
aZaZel-FAQ
What is aZaZel Ransomware?
aZaZel 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 aZaZel 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 aZaZel Infect?
Via several ways.aZaZel 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 aZaZel 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 .aZaZel files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .aZaZel 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 .aZaZel files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".aZaZel" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .aZaZel 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 aZaZel 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 aZaZel ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .aZaZel 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 aZaZel 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 aZaZel Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this aZaZel 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 aZaZel 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.