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Zeppelin Buran Virus (Buran Ransomware) – How to Remove It

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What is Zeppelin Buran ransomware? How does Zeppelin Buran work? How to open Zeppelin Buran files? How to remove Zeppelin Buran and try to restore files, encrypted by it?

The Zeppelin Buran virus is actually Buran ransomware infection, whose main idea is to make sure that you won’t be able to use your files anymore, until you pay ransom to the cyber-criminals who are behind it. The main idea of this is that your files get blocks of their data replaced with data from the AES encryption algorithm used by the Zeppelin Buran. The virus then adds its own file extension and drops a ransom note file. This file’s main purpose is to get victims to pay ransom to get your files to be decrypted using the unique decryption key that is generated and held by the crooks. Read this article to learn how to remove Zeppelin Buran from your computer and learn how to recover data encoded by it.

Threat Summary

Name Zeppelin Buran
Type Ransomware, Cryptovirus
Short Description Aims to encrypt files and then ad its custom file extension to them.
Symptoms Files are encrypted and cannot be opened. The Zeppelin Buran also drops a ransom note file, containing the extortionist message.
Distribution Method Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files
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User Experience Join Our Forum to Discuss Zeppelin Buran.
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.

Zeppelin Ransomware September 2020 Update

This month a new update was made to the Zeppelin Buran ransomware which was featured in a new attack campaign. A hacking group has recently been spotted in delivering these threats using a new set of delivery tactics. This type the hackers have embedded Visual Basic Scripts in a text which is obfuscated in image files. As usual, the main tactic involves the sending out of phishing email messages however this method can be used with other carriers as well. Some of the usual strategies include the following:

  • Hacker-created Sites — They are made by faking well-known company landing pages or services. Usually, the criminals will host them on similar-sounding domain names and will include copycat content.
  • Malware Files — The Zeppelin Buran virus infection can be caused by the insertion of the Visual Basic payload delivery scripts in various commonly used files. This can include documents, installers, patches, add-ons and etc.

When macro-infected document files are concerned several sets of commands will be started which will download and run the malware. The new version also adds in an updated security bypass function which will wait for a certain period before starting the execution sequence.

The Zeppelin ransomware has received a January 21 Update which can be seen by the introduction of a new ransomware note. It is possible that this new release is being orchestrated by a hacking group which is different than the previous ones. This would mean that the Buran ransomware main code has been distributed on the underground hacker markets. It is a popular malware family from which many releases have been made. This new release features a memory injection module — it will interact with the running apps and be able to hijack onto running ones. This means that the Zeppelin Buran will be able to extract sensitive information and also manipulate various fields. Process control is also implemented, a way of the virus to manipulate the running applications and system services. This can be used to hide itself from security apps discovery.

Further information became available in December 2019 about the Zeppelin ransomware. According to security researchers the threat is launched against end users by hackers who have acquired the threat by means of a RaaS channel. This means that malware developers on the hacker underground markets are actively advertising customization options for the threat. Prospective hackers can buy a copy of the ransomware and launch it immediately against target victims.

Ransomware like this are commonly used against large networks with the intention of hacking as many victims possible as possible. One of the latest victims are large technology and healthcare enterprises in several areas — countries across the USA, Europe and Canada.

While the initial distribution attack was by hosting dangerous scripts on various web sites. A distinct feature is that the viruses doesn’t appear to infect users located in Russia or former Communist countries like Belarus and Ukraine. It is possible that a blacklist is included as well — based on the local conditions and user location the virus will decide whether or not it will run.

The Zeppelin Buran virus can be easily embedded across different file formats — EXE, DLL or part of scripts that can be placed in documents, macros or web pages. The list of features of some of the captured samples includes the following components:

  • IP Logger — This is a small script that will track the location of the victims and send it to the hackers
  • Startup — This will activate the built-in persistent installer. It will modify the system in a way which will start the virus when the computer is booted. Depending on the exact configuration it can also block access to the recovery boot options.
  • Delete Backups — This option will remove backups, Shadow Volume Copies and other valuable data
  • Task Killer — This will lookup and terminate running applications and services on by request
  • Auto Unlock — This will unlock files that are processed during the encryption phase
  • Melt — This will trigger the self-destruction mechanism which will remove the virus
  • UAC prompt — This will attempt privileges elevation of the main virus

Zeppelin Buran Virus – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?

The Zeppelin Buran virus is a new version of the Buran malware family set against users worldwide. At the time of writing this article there is no information available about the hacking group behind it. It is very possible that the sample has been made by customizing the base engine of Buran and adding in the new configuration. This is one of the most common ways of creating new viruses. The other mechanism is to order them from the vendors at the underground markets where professional malware developers offer their services. Whatever the case the Zeppelin Buran virus should be removed immediately when detected.

It can be distributed to the intended victims by using different techniques, one of the most common ones revolve around using social engineering methods that aim to scam the victims into running or downloading virus code without them knowing. A common way is by sending out bulk email messages which are generated and distributed in a manner which is very similar to SPAM. the hackers will impersonate famous companies and services and their notifications. The same mechanism can be done by creating phishing sites that can take all forms — from impersonating the landing pages of legitimate software to download portals and ad redirects.

To facilitate a larger distribution technique the Zeppelin Buran virus installation code can be embedded in various malware carrier files. These can be setup bundles of popular applications or even macro-infected documents. These files can be of common formats: presentations, text documents and databases and spreadsheets. When they are opened by users a prompt will be spawned asking them to enable the built-in code, the quoted reason will be that this is required to view the contents of the file. All files can be uploaded to file-sharing networks as well.

As the Zeppelin Buran virus is a new sample originating from the Buran malware family. Given the fact that the previous versions allowed for the execution of common actions, we anticipate that this release will be no different. A large part of the viruses like this one will start an information gathering component that can hijack both personal and machine data. The harvested information can be processed by a special algorithm which will create an unique ID for each compromised host. One of the first actions which are done by ransomware of this type is related to the so-called security bypass — the main engine will scan for the presence of various software that can block or remove the threat. Such can be anti-virus engines, firewalls, intrusion detection systems and etc.

Buran ransomware threats are also well-known for causing widespread system changes. They can be any of the following:

  • Boot Options — The Zeppelin Buran virus can be installed in a way which will automatically start the ransomware as soon as the computer is booted. An additional action is to prevent the users from accessing the recovery boot options.
  • Windows Registry Changes — The Buran ransomware can edit out existing values or create new ones in the Windows Registry. This cna lead to serious performance issues, errors and data loss.
  • Removal of Sensitive Data — Many of the similar ransomware have been found to search for and delete sensitive data such as backups, shadow volume copies and etc.
  • Additional Malware Infections — Zeppelin Buran virus infections can be used to deliver other threats as well. Examples can be cryptocurrency miners or Trojans.

When everything has finished running the actual encryption phase will be started. Like the previous versions of the Buran ransomware a built-in list of target data will direct what files will be processed. Example data can be: archives, backups, multimedia files, documents and etc. Instead of using a single generic extension a short randomly generated string will be used to mark the affected files. The users will be blackmailed into paying the hackers a decryption fee by a text file called ALL YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED !!!.TXT.

Remove Zeppelin Buran and Try Restoring Files

To remove Zeppelin Buran from your computer, we strongly recommend that you read the instructions underneath. They have been created with the primary purpose to help you remove the Zeppelin Buran files and try to restore all encrypted data. For a faster and effective removal, we strongly recommend that you download and run a scan of your computer using a professional malware removal software. Such program has been made with the main idea to help you erase all traces of the Zeppelin Buran from your machine by scanning for its files and objects. It can also protect you from future threats and intrusive software of this type.

Martin Beltov

Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.

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Step 1: Scan for Zeppelin Buran with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.


It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.


2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 2


3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 3


4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 4

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide

Step 2: Uninstall Zeppelin Buran 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:


1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.
delete ransomware from windows step 1


2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.
delete ransomware from windows step 2


3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"
delete ransomware from windows step 3Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.


Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.
delete ransomware virus registries step 1


2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.
delete ransomware virus registries step 2


3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.
delete ransomware virus registries step 3 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.

IMPORTANT!
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 Zeppelin Buran

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!
We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows Key + R.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 1


2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 2


3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".
remove ransomware in safe mode step 3
Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.


4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 4


5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 5


Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Zeppelin Buran.

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:

stop ransomware decryptor step 1

2. Agree with the license terms:

stop ransomware decryptor step 2

3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:

stop ransomware decryptor step 3

4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.

stop ransomware decryptor step 4

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 Zeppelin Buran 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.

1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

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.


Zeppelin Buran-FAQ

What is Zeppelin Buran Ransomware?

Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran Infect?

Via several ways.Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran 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 .Zeppelin Buran files?

You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Zeppelin Buran 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 .Zeppelin Buran files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

Can I Restore ".Zeppelin Buran" Files?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Zeppelin Buran 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 Zeppelin Buran 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.

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