Article created to help you delete Zixer2 ransomware infection from your computer and try to get back files encrypted with TEA cipher and .zixer2 extension.
Ransomware virus, going by the name Zixer2 has been reported by researchers to infect computers, encrypt important files on them and then leave behind the e-mail datares@india.com for contact. The infection has been detected to use the Tiny Encryption Algorithm also known as TEA to render important files on the compromised devices no longer openable. After the encryption is complete, the ransomware uses the .zixer2 file extension which is added to the encrypted files. If you have become a victim of the Zixer2 ransomware infection, our advice is to focus on reading the following article.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Zixer2 |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using the TEA encryption cipher, making direct decryption possible only via a unique 128-bit decryption key available to the cyber-criminals. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions” named HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.TXT linking to an e-mail.Changed file names and the file-extension .zixer2 has been used. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Zixer2. |
| 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. |
Zixer2 Ransomware – How Does It Infect
The infection process of Zixer2 ransomware virus may begin with a packed executable which is uploaded as an e-mail attachment within an archive. Such attachments are usually redistributed via e-mail spam campaigns that take advantage either of multiple different spam kits that include:
- Spam bots.
- Pre-registered e-mail addresses which are legitimized via different SIM-cards.
- Pre-set list of spam e-mail templates that contain deceptive messages, like the one on the image below:
The malicious files may either be posted via web links or e-mail attachments, so users are strongly advised to learn how to protect themselves from such malicious campaigns by reading the informative related article below.
Other methods by which Zixer2 ransomware virus can spread and infect computers include the masking of the malicious files as patches, fake updates, game cracks or program activators. Sometimes the malware may reside within legitimate setups which also install it’s malicious code. The usage of modified Self-Extracting archives is also a potential scenario. Users are advised to learn how to store their data properly as well, because infection can come via unknown new methods as well.
Zixer2 Ransomware – Malicious Activity
Once the user becomes infected with a variant of Zixer2, the virus may create multiple malicious files. The files may be a different type of module and executable type of files which may have either random names or names resembling Windows system files. An example of commonly targeted folders and filenames which Zixer2 can use you can see from the image below:
After the malicious files belonging to Zixer2 Ransomware are already dropped, the virus may begin it’s malicious activity. For starters, the Zixer2 ransomware may check whether or not it is running on a virtual machine or a machine where the ransom has already been paid. If It is, Zixer2 ransomware shuts down immediately. In addition to this, Zixer2 ransomware may end system tasks that obstruct it’s encryption as well as insert malicious code in legitimate Windows processes to ensure the encryption is successful.
Another task possibly performed by the Zixer2 threat is to modify the volume shadow copies of the infected computer. This is usually performed by obtaining privileges to execute administrative commands in the Windows Command Prompt, like the vssadmin command:
After it deletes the shadow copies, the ransomware may also modify the Windows Registry Editor, possibly attacking the following Windows Registry sub-keys:
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop\
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
After modifying the registry entries, the ransomware may set a file, named HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.TXT to automatically open on system startup. The file has the following content:
ATTENTION !
All Your Files Was Encrypted !
E-mail addresses: Datares@india.com
Zixer2 Ransomware – Encryption Process
The file encoding process by Zixer2 ransomware is conducted by an encryption algorithm known as TEA or Tiny Encryption Algorithm. This specific type of cipher employees’ encryption which encrypts blocks of the files in 64bit strength (two 32-bit integers). After the encryption is complete, the cipher generates a unique 128-bit key which may be sent to the cyber-criminal servers by using an unsecured port on the infected computer. Here is how the encryption process of Zixer2 looks like:
Source: Wikipedia
The targeted files for encryption may be widely used file types, like the following ones:
→ “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 is complete, the files are appended the .zixer2 file expansion and can no longer be accessible. They may appear like shown on the image below:
Remove Zixer2 Ransomware and Restore .Zixer2 Encrypted Files
For the removal process of Zixer2 virus, it is important to backup the TEA encrypted files first. Then, we advise following the removal instruction steps below. They are carefully designed to help you get rid of the malicious objects by isolating the threat first and look for the settings and files second. In case of manual removal is not for you, malware researchers always outline using specific anti-malware software as a must for the automatic removal and future protection from viruses like Zixer2.
In case your files have been encrypted by Zixer2 ransomware, recommendations are to focus on trying to restore encrypted files by using the alternative methods in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Zixer2” from the instructions below.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for Zixer2 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Zixer2 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 Zixer2 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 Zixer2 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 Zixer2
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Zixer2.
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 Zixer2 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.
Zixer2-FAQ
What is Zixer2 Ransomware?
Zixer2 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 Zixer2 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 Zixer2 Infect?
Via several ways.Zixer2 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 Zixer2 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 .Zixer2 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Zixer2 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 .Zixer2 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Zixer2" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Zixer2 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 Zixer2 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 Zixer2 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Zixer2 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 Zixer2 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 Zixer2 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Zixer2 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 Zixer2 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.