What Is Zaps Virus?
Zaps virus ransomware is a variant that belongs to the STOP malware family of threats. Its main purpose is to get in your computer and encrypt the important files in it. The main outcome of this is that the Zaps virus could perform multiple types of virus activities without your consent, that end in encryption of your files. The main problem this may cause for your computer is that you may not be able to open your files and they are appended the .zaps file extension. This virus aims to extort you into paying ransom to the criminals behind it and gives instructions how to buy BitCoin for the payoff in a ransom note file, called _readme.txt.
Read this article to learn more about how Zaps virus works and how to effectively get rid of it from your computer.
Zaps Virus Summary
Name | Zaps, 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 |
File Extension | .zaps |
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 Zaps Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .zaps extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
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Zaps Virus – What Is Known So Far
Just like other variants of STOP ransomware, such as the recently detected Guer, Nosu and Tisc infections,this malware may also be spread via one of the two main ways:
- Downloaded as an executable file from a suspicious website.
- If it is sent as an e-mail attachment.
The Zaps virus may also pretend to be many different files as well.If this virus is downloaded from the web by some third-party site of unknown origin, it could pose as:
- Patches for apps or games.
- Portable software.
- Keygen (key generator activator).
- Fake setups.
- Cracks or activators.
In case it has infected your computer via e-email, chances are, it could pose as:
- Invoice of some sort.
- Tickets for flights.
- Work-related documents.
- Purchase e-receipt.
The main issue with this software is that it lays hidden files on your computer without you knowing, which allows it to encrypt files. The malware may appear in the following Windows directories:
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
Once the virus is spread on your comptuer, it may also drop the _readme.txt file, containing the ransom instructions:
Not only this, but also the Zaps virus may perform some modifications in the following Windows registry sub-keys:
- 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
.zaps Files
The .zaps virus may encrypt the files with the following file extensions:
- Document file types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Image files (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Video files (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Audio (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Archives (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Other.
When encrypted, the files assume the following appearance:
Picture.jpg.zaps
Keep reading this article to understand more about how the Zaps virus works and how to remove it.
Remove Zaps Virus and Try to Restore Files
In case you want to get rid of Zaps virus from your machine, we would strongly recommend that you follow the removal guide we have created beneath this article. It has been created with the main purpose to help you get rid of this ransomware either by yourself or automatically. Furthermore, we would strong recommend that you use an advanced anti-malware software to scan your PC with and remove Zaps virus automatically. Experts strongly recommend using such professional software as it i has the main objective to thoroughly scan for and get rid of the malicious files set by this virus on your device.
Furthermore, if you want to get your files back in case they have suffered from encryption by the Zaps virus ransomware, then we would advise to wait for a free STOP Decryptor. If your decryption key is offline-based, you have a significantly high chance at decrypting your data. If it is online, a decryptor for free is not an option, but you are welcome to try and use the alternative file recovery methods we have posted below. They may not be a full solution to this virus, but they may at least be able to help you get back some of the files.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Zaps virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Zaps 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Zaps 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 Zaps virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Zaps virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Zaps 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 Zaps 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.
Zaps virus-FAQ
What is Zaps virus Ransomware?
Zaps 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 Zaps 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 Zaps virus Infect?
Via several ways.Zaps 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 Zaps 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 .Zaps virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Zaps 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 .Zaps virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Zaps virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Zaps 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 Zaps 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 Zaps virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Zaps 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 Zaps 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 Zaps virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Zaps 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 Zaps 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.
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