A new virus by the name of Zixer2 was reported by cyber-security researchers. The virus can be tricky to deal with, but there are ways of removal. The virus is named after the .zixer2 extension that’s added to infected files. The ransomware “locks” your files by encrypting them. The virus will drop the “HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.TXT” note on your computer.
Zixer2 Ransomware Virus – How Did It Infect Me?
Ransomware scammers rely on some old, but effective tricks to infect regular users:
- Email spam – the scammers send our emails through a bot network. These letters usually mimic famous companies or government invoices.
- Pirated software – the people behind pirated content must cover the expenses of their activities somehow, and spreading malware is one way to do that. Cracked computer games and programs often include such content.
- Adware – the people behind malicious advertising have similar motivations to both the pirates and the ransomware scammers – making some dough.
All of these methods of distribution can be prevented rather easily. Don’t visit shady sites, open emails from weird addresses, or visit click-bait advertisings.
Zixer2 Ransomware Virus – What Does It Do?
The virus will encrypt your files, rendering them useless without a key. That’s what the crooks are trying to sell to you. The payment of the ransom would allegedly guarantee you access to your files. The reality is that the scammers have no obligation to give you the key to the encryption.
The text of the ransom note:
ATTENTION !
All Your Files Was Encrypted !
E-mail addresses: [email protected]
In fact, it would be against their interests. Since you have to pay them first, they have what they wanted, so why waste time and resources on sending decryptors? This is why it’s better to deal with the virus by other means.
Zixer2 Ransomware Virus – How Can I Protect My PC?
Since your computer got infected with the Zixer2, you’ll probably get infected again in the future. That is if you don’t take protective measures. Try to avoid malicious content, and get an anti-malware tool.
Zixer2 Ransomware Removal
STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.
- 1) Hit WIN Key + R
- 2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK
Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”
STEP II: Show Hidden Files
- 1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
- – Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option
3) Windows 8/ 10
- – Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option
4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button
STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes
- 1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it
STEP IV: Remove Completely Zixer2 Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter
STEP V: Repair Windows Registry
- 1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys
Further help for Windows Registry repair
STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files
- 1) Use present backups
- 2) Use professional data recovery software
- – Stellar Phoenix Data Recovery – a specialist tool that can restore partitions, data, documents, photos, and 300 more file types lost during various types of incidents and corruption..
- 3) Using System Restore Point
- – Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps
- 4) Restore your personal files using File History
- – Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar
- – Hit the “Restore” button
STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures
- 1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.
SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter
