What Is ZOZL Virus?
ZOZL is the latest strain of Phobos ransomware. This computer virus encodes valuable files that store personal data and drops its ransom notes to extort a ransom payment. The ransomware corrupts essential system settings as well. Since the requested ransom may be hundreds of dollars, it is far from reasonable to provide cybercriminals with such an amount of money. You will only support their next malicious campaigns while receiving no guarantee for receiving a working decryption tool. So, be advised to skip following the instructions presented by the ransom messages info.hta and info.txt and consider the use of security tools to deal with the problem.
You can get rid of all malicious files created by this ransomware when you reach the steps listed at the end of the article.
ZOZL Virus Summary
| Name | ZOZL also known as Gen:NN.ZexaF.34212.duW@aW7O5Gf, Gen:Variant.Ransom.Phobos.62 (B), Ransom:Win32/Phobos.PM |
| File Extension | .id[5MKLO98W-7773].[ops@mailc.net].ZOZL |
| 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 ZOZL Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .ZOZL extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | read_it.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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ZOZL Virus – How Does It Infect PCs?
The ransomware ZOZL may be circling around the web by pretending to be:
- Files, apps, updates or torrent files are available for free download on various websites.
- Redirects to questionable landing pages that are set to execute the ransomware infection on computer systems.
- Email attachments and links presented in legitimate-like email messages. Following the link or viewing the attached file runs the malicious ransomware payload and then it becomes able to plague the system.
ZOZL Ransomware may have possibly infected your PC via an email attachment. The attachment may have been presented as a document that is packed with malicious macros. Here is an example of how such an infected document works:
ZOZL Virus – What Does It Do?
ZOZL ransomware infection needs to establish a bunch of malicious files before it reaches the data encryption stage of its infection. Malicious files that support the complex ransomware attack may hijack legitimate processes in order to hide the threat for as long as possible.
After completing a few stages, ZOZL virus will leave its strains in some essential Windows system directories that may include:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %LocalLow%
Certain registries in the Windows Registry system component may be noticed as well. ZOZL virus could misuse the functionalities of the registry sub-keys listed below to run its files automatically every time you start the infected system. Following directories in the Registry may be infected with malicious strains:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
At last, ZOZL cryptovirus drops two files that store its ransom messages. The first ransom message shows up on the screen to inform the following:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail ops@mailc.net
Write this ID in the title of your message –
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to this e-mail:ops2@mailc.net
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 5 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 4Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
That message tries to convince victims to contact hackers for more information about the recovery of their encrypted .ZOZL files. The second ransom message is kept by the file info.txt and it reads the following:
!!!All of your files are encrypted!!!
To decrypt them send e-mail to this address: ops@mailc.net.
If we don’t answer in 24h., send e-mail to this address: ops2@mailc.net
.ZOZL Files
The extension .ZOZL will appear appended to the original names of corrupted files. Two more extensions will be added to locked files’ names – an ID number and an email address associated with hackers.
Unfortunately, all encoded files will be left inaccessible for an unspecified period of time. The encryption module of ZOZL virus scans all directories, besides the system directories of Windows and encodes files that may be of the following kinds:
- Audio file formats (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Pictures (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Video file types (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archives (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Document file kinds (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Other types of often used data.
After applying the encryption, the virus will immediately attempt to force you to pay a hefty ransom fee for the recovery of .ZOZL files. We at SensorsTechForum do not recommend such steps. They are neither secure nor reliable.
How to Remove ZOZL Virus?
ZOZL virus get rid of your computer system by following the removal instructions, posted underneath this article. The main idea of those steps is to help you neutralize the threat either manually or automatically. For the most effective removal, security professionals strongly recommend that you run a scan of your computer system using anti-malware software. Such a security program will effectively help to automatically delete any of the files belonging to this malware.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for ZOZL with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall ZOZL 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 ZOZL 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 ZOZL 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 ZOZL
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by ZOZL.
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 ZOZL 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.
ZOZL-FAQ
What is ZOZL Ransomware?
ZOZL 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 ZOZL 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 ZOZL Infect?
Via several ways.ZOZL 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 ZOZL 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 .ZOZL files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .ZOZL 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 .ZOZL files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".ZOZL" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .ZOZL 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 ZOZL 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 ZOZL ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .ZOZL 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 ZOZL 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 ZOZL Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this ZOZL 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 ZOZL 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.