What is Zzla?
The Zzla virus is a new version of the STOP ransomware family. The newest version has been detected in an ongoing attack. Like previous versions, the cryptovirus is capable of inflicting much damage to victims’ hosts. The activation of its payload file on a PC leads to permanent damage of valuable files. One way to restore .zzla files is to purchase the decryption tool by hackers. Such an action is not recommendable, though. All instructions presented by the _readme.txt ransom note are better not to be followed.
See how to clean malicious files from your PC, how to secure the infected system, and how to possibly restore .zzla files by reading the guide below.
Zzla Virus Summary
Name | Zzla also known as Packed-GDT!56043A97907B, Trojan:Win32/Sabsik.FL.A!ml, VHO:Trojan-Spy.Win32.Stealer.gen, Gen:NN.ZexaF.34790.0uW@amfu2IpG |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Malicious Extension | .zzla |
Ransom Note | _readme.txt |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .zzla extensions and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Torrent Files, Malicious Links |
Detection Tool |
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Zzla Virus – In-Depth Analysis
The Zzla STOP ransomware virus has been released in the wild via some of the most common tactics. One of them is malspam. Malspam or email SPAM messages are created in bulk to present specially crafted templates. Those email messages pose as popular Internet services, well-known businesses, and governmental institutions. They can feature the ransomware as an attachment or hyperlink in the body contents. Criminals may also use fake download sites that spoof popular web services.
The moment Zzla virus loads on a PC, it can launch several modules depending on the purposes of the attack. Typically, the first one performs information gathering. It could be programmed to harvest strings that reveal the victim’s identity and computer hardware.
The harvested data can then be used by a stealth protection module. It is able to protect the ransomware from being detected by any active security measures. The list could include all sorts of anti-virus products, firewalls, virtual machine hosts, debug environments and etc. All of the detected could be either disabled or completely removed by the virus.
During the attack, Zzla virus will cause various system modifications, most of which corrupt the Windows Registry. Malicious modifications made there could enable the ransomware to reconfigure the boot options in a way that the virus starts to load every time the computer boots.
One of the most dangerous effects upon the target computers that an installed Zzla virus can facilitate is a malicious network connection to hacker-controlled servers. Such a connection could be misused to spy on the victims, take over control of their machines and deploy other threats and additional modules.
.zzla Files
The Zzla virus will launche its data encryption engine once it executed all other components successfully. It uses a strong cipher that is shared with the previous versions and a built-in list of target data. An example one can include the following:
- Archives.
- Documents.
- Databases.
- Images.
- Videos.
- Music.
All victim files are renamed with the .zzla extension. A ransom message named _readme.txt is then created to present the following text message:
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
https://we.tl/t-B0FsLNO3fN
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
helpteam@mail.chReserve e-mail address to contact us:
helpmanager@airmail.ccYour personal ID:
Do you have any guarantee that after spending a considerable sum of money you will be able to recover .zzla files? We don’t think so. Don’t forget that cybercriminals stand behind every ransomware attack. Their promises should not be trusted, their instructions not be followed as well. Keep up with the ransomware removal guide below to get rid of installed malicious files and secure your PC for further usage.
Remove Zzla Virus and Try to Restore .zzla Files
If your computer got infected with the Zzla Ransomware ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Zzla Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Zzla 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 Zzla 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 Zzla 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 Zzla Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Zzla 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 Zzla 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.
Zzla Virus-FAQ
What is Zzla Virus Ransomware?
Zzla 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 Zzla 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 Zzla Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Zzla 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 Zzla 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 .Zzla Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Zzla 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 .Zzla Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Zzla Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Zzla 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 Zzla 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 Zzla Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Zzla 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 Zzla 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 Zzla Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Zzla 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 Zzla 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.
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