Znto – General Info
Znto is a destructive software application functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular malware researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Znto was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as quickly as the encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Znto ransomware adds its own “.znto” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Znto, will be titled as “price_list.xls.znto”. When the encryption is achieved, Znto puts its own special text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by text file asking for the random os very similar to the notifications provided by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The warning basically indicates that the data has been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is absolutely true.
The technique to encrypt the files used by Znto is not totally looked into. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be issued a special decryption key, which is definitely unique. It is incredibly difficult to recuperate the data without the appropriate type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Znto infection is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the complete control by the scoundrels who have actually launched the Znto ransomware into the world wide web. In order to get the key and restore the essential information, the users are told to get in touch with the scams via email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message likewise says that individuals need to get in touch with the Znto authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the data file encryption. The alert shows that by doing so individuals will acquire a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Znto encrypted your data, nevertheless, it might not be the only risk on your computer. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To detect and delete the hazard completely, we advise you to describe the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online crooks will keep their pledges, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom often does not result in a successful recovery. So, the users might simply lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we advise you not to call the scams as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might split the Znto ransomware or restore the data at no cost. Therefore, the only correct decision is to restore the information from possible backups (if available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Znto Ransomware |
| File Extension | znto |
| 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 .znto extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Znto Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Znto Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections comparable to the Znto virus. For example, this specific danger is basically similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have been established in order to encrypt the crucial data and express the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to create the particular key for effective data decryption.
Unless the Znto ransomware is still under the development procedure or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Thus, the only working service to prevent the loss of your important information is to regularly keep current backups of all your essential files.
Another essential piece of suggestions is to store the backups on unique storage not linked to your primary device. For example, you might save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your regular drive is really dangerous, because the backup may also be encrypted by the Znto infection.
Leakages for the Znto ransomware attack.
Znto utilizes many paths to infiltrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not particular what specific method was utilized in your case, however, the invasion may happen by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly freeware;
- spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
- sites providing complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Znto ransomware may camouflage itself as some genuine application, for example, through the deceptive notifies requiring installation of some software upgrade. This is the most common technique utilized by the frauds to inject the Znto ransomware files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without clearly comprehending the danger.
Moreover, the frauds might send unsolicited spam e-mail with challenging notifies motivating the people to open suspicious attachments or click some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open specific images, text files, tax files and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the malicious links may essentially harm the system. Fake Media Player upgrade notices may result in the Znto ransomware seepage. Likewise, downloading the broken software might furthermore consist of the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Znto might take place through some Trojan horses that may be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission or perhaps permission.
Preventing the Znto virus injection.
Obviously, there is no absolute assurance that your computer will be always free of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we wish to share some helpful pointers with you to make it safer. Make certain to pay extremely very close attention while browsing the web and especially while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail accessories, especially if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise contain some other extra apps in the package. These additional applications might be really harmful. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your os in basic to be always effectively updated.
It is rather rational that downloading pirated programs is prohibited, nevertheless, additionally, such unauthorized programs usage might likewise bring major damage to your computer. For this reason, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the reality that your present anti-virus did not secure the system from the Znto ransomware is a good factor for you to reconsider your choices and change to another program that can render the protecting functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Znto 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 “.znto” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Znto 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 znto 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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