Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Zouu Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .zouu files)

Zouu Virus Ransomware

Zouu is a harmful software application functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Zouu was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as soon as the encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are not able to get access to them. Zouu virus adds its own “.zouu” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as modified by Zouu, will be titled as “price_list.xls.zouu”. Once the file encryption is accomplished, Zouu puts its own distinct text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.

The message specified by document requesting the random os extremely similar to the alerts offered by other ransomware hazards coming from the DJVU family. The caution basically indicates that the information has been encrypted and the only solution to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.

The approach to secure the files utilized by Zouu is not entirely looked into. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be provided a special decryption key, which is definitely unique. It is incredibly tough to recuperate the information without the appropriate key in place.

“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:

Don't worry, you can return all your files! virus

One more peculiarity of the Zouu ransomware 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 launched the Zouu virus into the internet. In order to get the key and restore the essential information, the users are told to contact the scams through email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.

The message also states that individuals ought to call the Zouu 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, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.

No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we strongly encourage that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online crooks will keep their guarantees, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is received into their accounts. For this reason, paying ransom often does not result in an effective recovery. So, the users might merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.

Likewise, we prompt you not to call the frauds as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might crack the Zouu virus or bring back the data at no charge. For that reason, the only right decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if readily available).

Virus Summary

NameZouu Ransomware
File Extensionzouu
TypeRansomware
FamilyDJVU
Short DescriptionThe 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.
SymptomsFile 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 .zouu extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution MethodAdware bundles and software cracks
Similar InfectionsLokas, Besub, Nusar
Zouu Removal Tool   GridinSoft Anti-Malware
Zouu Decryption Tool   Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor

Do not forget that the Internet is now filled with infections comparable to the Zouu ransomware. For example, this particular risk is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful energies have actually been developed in order to encrypt the essential information and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to create the particular key for successful data decryption.

Unless the Zouu ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the information by hand. Therefore, the only working solution to avoid the loss of your essential information is to frequently preserve up-to-date backups of all your vital files.

Another essential piece of guidance is to save the backups on special storage not connected to your primary computer. For instance, 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 system drive is extremely risky, given that the backup may likewise be encrypted by the Zouu ransomware.

Leakages for the Zouu ransomware attack.

Zouu uses many courses to penetrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not specific what particular technique was used in your case, however, the intrusion may occur by means of the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, primarily free apps;
  • spam emails from the unidentified senders;
  • websites supplying free hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.

There are times when the Zouu may camouflage itself as some genuine application, for instance, through the deceptive notifies requiring installation of some software update. This is the most typical trick utilized by the frauds to inject the Zouu ransomware files into the system. This way users partly participate in its installation, without clearly understanding the risk.

In addition, the scams may send unsolicited spam email with challenging alerts motivating the people to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for example, those encouraging the people to open specific photos, text files, tax documents and other info.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links may essentially harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update alerts may result in the Zouu ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the broken software might in addition contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Zouu may take place through some Trojan horses that may be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct approval or even permission.

Avoiding the Zouu ransomware attack.

Of course, there is no absolute assurance that your computer system will be always devoid of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we want to share some beneficial tips with you to make it much safer. Ensure to pay really attention while browsing the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail accessories, specifically if the sender is not known to you.

Do not forget that certain freeware installer might also include some other additional apps in the package. These extra applications might be really harmful. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in basic to be constantly correctly updated.

It is quite logical that downloading pirated programs is prohibited, nevertheless, in addition, such unauthorized software use might also bring serious damage to your computer. Hence, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the reality that your current anti-virus did not protect the system from the Zouu ransomware is an excellent reason for you to reconsider your choices and change to another program that can render the protecting functions on a much better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Zouu 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 “.zouu” extension added by the virus:”

Zouu Ransomware - encrypt files with .zouu extension

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Zouu ransomware from your computer

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can get GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:

  GridinSoft Anti-Malware

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware
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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Setup

3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware Install

3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware  Start

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan Result

Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore zouu files

You can get Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:

  Emsisoft Decryptor

  1. Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
  2. Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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
  6. 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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Daniel Zimmermann

Daniel Zimmermann has been writing on security and malware subjects for many years and has been working in the security industry for over 10 years. Daniel was educated at the Saarland University in Saarbrücken, Germany and currently lives in New York.

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