Znws Virus Ransomware
Znws is a malicious software application functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Znws was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as quickly as the file encryption is successfully achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Znws ransomware includes its own “.znws” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Znws, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.znws”. When the file encryption is achieved, Znws puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert stated by _readme.txt requesting the random os very similar to the notifications given by other ransomware dangers coming from the DJVU family. The warning basically indicates that the files have been encrypted and the only service to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.
The approach to secure the files used by Znws is not completely investigated. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be issued an unique decryption key, which is absolutely unique. It is exceptionally hard to recover the data without the suitable type in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Znws ransomware is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the complete control by the scoundrels who have actually introduced the Znws virus into the world wide web. In order to obtain the key and restore the important information, the users are told to contact the frauds by means of e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message also says that individuals should get in touch with the Znws authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the data encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so individuals will get a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Znws crypted your files, nevertheless, it may not be the only danger on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be concealed deep in the system. To detect and delete the risk entirely, we recommend you to describe the aid of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly recommend that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online scoundrels will keep their promises, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom often does not lead to an effective healing. So, the users might simply lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we urge you not to call the frauds as they instruct. Do not move loan into their wallets. There are no applications that could split the Znws ransomware or bring back the data at no charge. For that reason, the only appropriate decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Znws Ransomware |
| File Extension | znws |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Family | DJVU |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts all the data stored on your system and requires a ransom to be paid on your part supposedly to recover your important files. |
| Symptoms | File encryption by the ransomware is performed by means of the AES-256 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .znws extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Znws Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Znws Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections similar to the Znws virus. For example, this specific threat is basically similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging energies have been established in order to secure the crucial data and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to generate the particular key for successful data decryption.
Unless the Znws ransomware is still under the development process or has got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information manually. Thus, the only working option to avoid the loss of your essential information is to frequently keep up-to-date backups of all your vital files.
Another essential piece of guidance is to save the backups on unique storage not connected to your primary PC. For instance, you may store it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your regular drive is really risky, considering that the backup may likewise be secured by the Znws ransomware.
Leaks for the Znws ransomware attack.
Znws uses numerous courses to penetrate the vulnerable computers. It is not certain what particular technique was utilized in your case, however, the intrusion might occur through the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, generally free apps;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites offering free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Znws may disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the misleading alerts demanding setup of some software update. This is the most common trick used by the scams to inject the Znws virus files into the system. This way users partially take part in its installation, without clearly comprehending the risk.
Furthermore, the frauds may send out unsolicited spam email with challenging signals encouraging individuals to open suspicious accessories or click some download links, for example, those motivating the people to open specific photos, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the harmful links might basically damage the system. Fake Media Player update notifications may lead to the Znws ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the broken software application may furthermore include the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Znws may occur through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission and even consent.
Avoiding the Znws virus injection.
Obviously, there is no absolute warranty that your computer will be constantly free of any malware attacks, however, we would like to share some useful suggestions with you to make it much safer. Make certain to pay extremely attention while browsing the web and specifically while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, especially if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer may likewise include some other extra apps in the bundle. These extra applications might be very damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in basic to be always effectively upgraded.
It is rather sensible that downloading cracked software is illegal, however, in addition, such unauthorized programs usage may also bring serious damage to your computer. Hence, do not download any split programs. Plus, the fact that your current anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Znws ransomware is a great reason for you to reassess your choices and change to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Znws text file:
ATTENTION! Don't worry, you can return all your files! All your files like photos, 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-2P5WrE5b9f 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: restorealldata@firemail.cc Reserve e-mail address to contact us: gorentos@bitmessage.ch Our Telegram account: @datarestore
Screenshot of files with “.znws” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Znws ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can download GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:
2. Double-click on the setup file.
When setup file has finished downloading, double-click on the setup-antimalware-ag.exe file to install GridinSoft Anti-Malware on your computer.
An User Account Control asking you about to allow GridinSoft Anti-Malware to make changes to your device. So, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.
4. Wait for the GridinSoft Anti-Malware scan to complete.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically start scanning your computer for Win Speedup 2018 and other malicious programs. This process can take a 20-30 minutes, so we suggest you periodically check on the status of the scan process.
5. Click on “Clean Now”.
When the scan has completed, you will see the list of infections that GridinSoft Anti-Malware has detected. To remove them click on the “Clean Now” button in right corner.
Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore znws files
You can download Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:
- Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
- Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
- By default, the decryptor will pre-populate the locations to decrypt with the currently connected drives and network drives. Additional locations can be added using the Add” button.
- Decryptors typically offer various options depending on the particular malware family. The available options are located in the Options tab and can be enabled or disabled there. You can find a detailed list of the available Options below.
- After you have added all the locations you want to decrypt to the list, click the “Decrypt” button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files
- The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your personal records, you can save it by clicking the “Save log” button. You can also copy it straight to your clipboard to paste it into emails or forum posts if you are asked to.
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