Powz – Ransomware
Powz is a harmful software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known malware researcher, very first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Powz was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as quickly as the file encryption is effectively achieved, the users are unable to get access to them. Powz ransomware adds its own “.powz” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Powz, will be titled as “price_list.xls.powz”. As soon as the encryption is achieved, Powz puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert specified by text file asking for the random os extremely comparable to the notices provided by other ransomware hazards belonging to the DJVU family. The warning generally indicates that the files have been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is definitely real.
The method to secure the files utilized by Powz is not completely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be released an unique decryption key, which is definitely unique. It is exceptionally difficult to recover the information without the appropriate key in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Powz ransomware is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the total control by the criminals who have actually introduced the Powz ransomware into the internet. In order to obtain the key and bring back the important data, the users are told to connect with the frauds via e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message likewise states that the people ought to call the Powz authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information file encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so the people will acquire a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom amount drops down to $490.
Powz modified your files, nevertheless, it might not be the only threat on your PC. Plus, the ransomware might be hidden deep in the system. To discover and erase the risk completely, we advise you to describe the aid of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online crooks will keep their promises, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. For this reason, paying ransom often does not lead to a successful healing. So, the users might merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we urge you not to get in touch with the frauds as they advise. Do not transfer cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might break the Powz ransomware or bring back the information at no cost. For that reason, the only right decision is to bring back the information from possible backups (if available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Powz Ransomware |
| File Extension | powz |
| 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 .powz extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Powz Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Powz Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections comparable to the Powz ransomware. For instance, this particular hazard is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful energies have been established in order to secure the important information and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to generate the particular key for effective information decryption.
Unless the Powz ransomware is still under the advancement process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data by hand. Therefore, the only working solution to avoid the loss of your crucial data is to regularly maintain current backups of all your crucial files.
Another crucial piece of advice is to keep the backups on unique storage not connected to your primary device. For instance, you may save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your routine drive is really risky, since the backup may also be encrypted by the Powz .
Leakages for the Powz ransomware attack.
Powz utilizes numerous paths to penetrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not particular what particular method was used in your case, nevertheless, the invasion may take place via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly freeware;
- spam emails from the unknown senders;
- websites supplying free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Powz ransomware might camouflage itself as some real application, for instance, through the misleading alerts requiring installation of some software application update. This is the most common trick utilized by the scams to inject the Powz virus files into the system. By doing this users partly take part in its installation, without plainly understanding the danger.
In addition, the frauds may send out unsolicited spam email with tricky notifies encouraging individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for instance, those motivating individuals to open particular pictures, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the malicious links might essentially damage the system. Fake Acrobat Reader upgrade alerts may result in the Powz ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the broken software application may in addition consist of the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, installation of Powz might happen through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent or even approval.
Avoiding the Powz ransomware injection.
Of course, there is no absolute warranty that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, however, we wish to share some beneficial pointers with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay very attention while browsing the web and particularly while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, specifically if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that particular freeware installer may likewise consist of some other extra apps in the package. These extra applications might be extremely harmful. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software and your operating system in general to be constantly appropriately upgraded.
It is quite sensible that downloading cracked software is prohibited, nevertheless, furthermore, such unapproved apps usage may also bring major damage to your PC. Hence, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the reality that your current anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Powz ransomware is a good factor for you to reconsider your choices and switch to another program that can render the protecting functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Powz 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 “.powz” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Powz 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 powz 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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