In the unfortunate event that you are a victim of Zeoticus ransomware virus, you can find help in this removal guide.
.zeoticus Virus Files
Zeoticus virus is the name given to a severe ransomware infection that encrypts valuable personal files and extorts a ransom fee from its victims. Once activated on a target computer operating system the Zeoticus ransomware disrupts its security and performs several attack stages without being detected.
The activation of Zeoticus virus your computer leads to the following issues:
- Creation of additional malicious files;
- Data harvest;
- Connection to a remote server controlled by hackers;
- Encryption of personal files;
- Renamed files’ names with the extension .zeoticus ;
- Creation of a ransom message READ_ME.html;
- Extortion of a ransom fee.
All changes applied by the ransomware leave the infected system extremely vulnerable to other malware attacks. Continue reading this ransomware removal guide as it will show you how to remove malicious files from your infected system so that it can be protected against future malware attacks and how to possibly restore .zeoticus files.
Threat Summary
| Name | Zeoticus virus |
| File Extension | .zeoticus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A malware that is designed to encrypt valuable files stored on infected computers so that it can extort a ransom fee from victims. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encrypted and renamed with the virus extension .zeoticus A ransom message forces victims to contact hackers in order to receive instructions on how to pay a ransom fee probably in cryptocurrency. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | READ_ME.html |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails; Email Attachments; Corrupted Websites; Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Zeoticus virus. |
| 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. |
Zeoticus Ransomware – More Details About the Infection
Zeoticus virus is a data locker ransomware that has recently been detected in active attack campaigns against online users worldwide. Itс spread is likely to be realized via spam emails with counterfeit senders, misleading content and malicious email attachments or links to corrupted websites. So, when a user receives an email that is part of а malspam campaign he/she may consider it as a legit one and carelessly interact with its content.
This moment is the beginning of an attack with the so-called .zeoticus virus files. As a vicious malware infection, this ransomware performs lots of complex malicious activities that seriously disrupt system security. After the completion of all initial malicious operations, the ransomware becomes able to encrypt personal files without being interrupted.
For the encryption phase, the virus launches a built-in cipher module with the help of which it scans folders for certain file types that are most likely to store personal data. Every time the module detects a target file, it applies changes that transform the original code of the file and locks it with the extension .zeoticus.
At last the ransomware creates the file READ_ME.html on the Desktop so that it can open it and load a ransom message on the screen. According to the Zeoticus’ ransom message, victims should contact hackers for more details about the recovery of their .zeoticus files. Here is the full content of the ransom message:
Zeoticus
All your data are encrypted.
Only we can decrypt your data, write to the original mails specified in this file, otherwise you will become a victims of scammers
Be carefully, recovery companies usually require more than we, and act as middleman
——————————————-
Contact and send this file to us:
zeoticus@tutanota.com
zeoticus@aol.com
zeoticus@protonmail.com
[User ID]
Of utmost importance is that victims keep calm and refrain from negotiating with cybercriminals. This action does not guarantee the recovery of your encrypted files. We advise all victims to remove Zeoticus ransomware from the infected machines, back up encrypted files and make sure that their systems are protected against future malware attacks.
Remove .zeoticus Virus Files – Restore Data
The so-called .zeoticus virus is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after the complete removal of all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. That’s why it is recommendable that all steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below should be completed. Beware that the manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide.
How to Recover .zeoticus Files
There are several alternative methods that may be efficient for the recovery of .zeoticus files, but note that there is no guarantee they would work for all encrypted files. You could find them listed under Step 5 from our Zeoticus ransomware removal guide. Beware that you should make copies of all encrypted files and save them on a flash drive for example. This additional step will prevent the permanent loss of encrypted files.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Zeoticus virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Zeoticus virus 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 virus 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 virus 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 virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Zeoticus virus.
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 virus 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 virus-FAQ
What is Zeoticus virus Ransomware?
Zeoticus virus 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 virus 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 virus Infect?
Via several ways.Zeoticus virus 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 virus 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 virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Zeoticus virus 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 virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Zeoticus virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Zeoticus virus 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 virus 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 virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Zeoticus virus 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 virus 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 virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Zeoticus virus 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 virus 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.