DAZX ransomware aims to take your files hostage until you pay a ransom
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DAZX ransomware is a pernicious computer virus that is designed to encrypt all files stored on the system. It is a new variant of STOP/DJVU ransomware and this version is recognized from the .dazx extension that it appends to filenames of encrypted data. For example, files with names like 1.jpg, 2.docx or 3.mp4 will appear as 1.jpg.dazx, 2.docx.dazx and 3.mp4.dazx once encrypted, and the same procedure will be applied to the rest of files on computer. The encryption makes data completely inaccessible to the user. To explain the intentions of the threat actors behind the malware, the virus drops _readme.txt ransom note in each folder.
This harmful computer virus wreaks havoc on the system with sole aim – to make user’s data inaccessible. As a result, the victim loses access to images, videos, music files, recordings, archives and documents, no matter if they’re personal or work-related files. Losing access to such data can halt victim’s activities related to work or studies and also stop access to personal memories.
Once the damage is done, the ransomware ensures to leave the ransom notes in noticeable places – to be specific, in each folder containing locked data.
The ransom-demanding note overview
The cybercriminals leave a short message in ransom note files (_readme.txt) dropped throughout the computer system. They let the victim know what types of data have been encrypted, and suggest paying the ransom as soon as possible in order to decrypt .dazx files.
The criminals provide two email addresses that the victim can use in attempt to contact the ransomware operators – support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. They also advise contacting them within 72 hours once the ransomware attack takes place, as this guarantees a 50% discount on the decryption tools. The note explains that victims who contact the criminals within this “grace” period can get the decryption tools for $490, while those who are late will have to pay $980.
There’s also a lengthy string provided that is identified as a Personal ID – it is a code that’s supposed to help the cybercriminals identify the victim. The crooks suggest sending this ID along with a sample of encrypted file to them and promise to decrypt this test file for free. This way, they are trying to show a proof of their capability to restore victim’s files.
Paying a ransom is not a good choice – it doesn’t give you any guarantees, and once you pay up, there is no way back. On top of that, there is no refund policy. Paying money to cybercriminals only encourages cybercrime and makes you an “easy target” in cybercriminals’ eyes, so they might try to extort you further or target you in future attacks. Please remember that cybercriminals often put their time and effort to convince the victims to send funds to them, but once they receive the payment, they might stop being so chatty.
We recommend reading additional information regarding ransomware attacks on the official FBI or NCSC websites. These guides explain why paying the ransom is not a recommended option.
Information stealers dropped: what you need to know
Unfortunately, malware rarely comes alone – and the same applies to STOP/DJVU ransomware variants. Our analysis revealed that it typically arrives with Vidar, AZORult, or RedLine information stealers.
It is important to understand how dangerous these Trojans are. First of all, they belong in Remote Access Trojans (RATs) category, which means they can allow attackers to execute various tasks on victim’s computer from a remote location.
For example, the crooks can give these tools commands to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials, browsing history, cookies, banking details, cryptocurrency wallets, and other information. On top of that, they can be used to run command-line tasks, also to view or delete user’s files, and download additional viruses to the system.
Therefore, once you notice signs of a compromised computer, you need to take actions to protect your PC and your privacy right away. Use guidelines presented below this article to remove DAZX ransomware virus and other malware. A good antivirus that we recommend is INTEGO Antivirus, in case you’re hesitant which one to choose.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | DAZX Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here) |
| Version | 666th |
| Extension | .dazx |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| Additional malware dropped | Azorult, RedLine or Vidar |
| Damage | The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .dazx extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online. |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico. |
| Known software cracks to contain this malware | Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends. |
| Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Vidar.PBC!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), UDS:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Variant.Mikey.145669 (BitDefender), Win32:TrojanX-gen [Trj] (Avast), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link). |
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Ransomware distribution: methods that cybercriminals use
Ransomware-type viruses are distributed in a variety of ways, although the most common methods – illegal downloads and malicious email attachments – prove to be the most successful for the cybercriminals.
Cybercriminals behind STOP/DJVU ransomware have a tendency to rely on illegal software versions mostly. It is believed that they are behind a network of malicious websites claiming to provide software cracks. They use popular software names to attract user’s attention, promising to provide 100% full software versions at no cost. Whoever falls for this scam will find their files encrypted in no time. Do not download cracked software – it is highly dangerous, besides, by doing so, you are doing a copyright infringement act.
Another way that crooks use to spread ransomware is via malicious email attachments. They compose convincing and legitimate-looking emails that appear to be sent by well-known companies, government entities or similar. Unfortunately, all they seek to do is to trick the victim into opening the malware-injected attachment. If the recipient fails to identify the deception and opens the attachment, the ransomware finds its entrance to the computer.
It is important to be careful while browsing the Internet, checking your emails or downloading some files. Try to stay cautious and avoid opening email attachments if the sender seems unfamiliar to you. On top of that, be very picky when it comes to software download sources online – only go to official or trusted websites.
Next, do not download apps or updates that you encounter while browsing not-so-trustworthy websites (adult-only, gambling, file-sharing or movie streaming sites), as they might simply clutter your computer. In worst scenario, you might agree to spyware or malware installation without realizing it. Finally, protect your computer with antivirus solution to keep your system guarded in real-time.
Remove DAZX ransomware virus and secure your computer system
If you’re ready to remove DAZX ransomware virus from your computer, then scroll down and you will find in-detail guidelines on how to complete this task. If you’re in need for some software recommendations, we usually advise using INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal and computer protection, while RESTORO helps to resolve part of the ransomware attack aftermath – it can repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.
If you have completed DAZX virus removal and the rest of the malware was detected and deleted as well, you can use data backups to restore your files. If you’re not so lucky and you do not have data backups, learn under which circumstances and how STOP/DJVU-affected files can be decrypted/repaired. we also advise changing all of your passwords due to the information-stealing malware activity.
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Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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DAZX Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove DAZX Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube.
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- First of all, turn off your PC. Then press the Power button to start it again and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. This launches the Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Use arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate down to Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Open Windows Start menu, then press down the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then select Restart option.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. In this case, it is the F5 key.
Step 2. Remove files associated with the virus
Now, you can search for and remove DAZX Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.
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Method 2. Use System Restore
In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically.
Step 1. Boot Windows in Safe Mode with Command Prompt
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- Shut down your PC. Start it again by pressing the Power button and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. You will see Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Using arrow keys on the keyboard, navigate down to Safe Mode with Command Prompt option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Launch Windows Start menu, then click the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then choose Restart option with the mouse cursor.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt. In this case, press F6 key.
Step 2. Start System Restore process
- Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
- Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter. Or you can just type %systemroot%system32restorerstrui.exe in command prompt and hit Enter.
- This launches System Restore window. Click Next and then choose a System Restore point created in the past. Choose one that was created before ransomware infection.
- Click Yes to begin the system restoration process.
After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won't be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.
Alternative software recommendations
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
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Decrypt DAZX files
Fix and open large DAZX files easily:
It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.
- Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
- Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the DAZX extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
- In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
- Try opening the file.
STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide
STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. DAZX Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie.
Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible.
In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt DAZX files, follow the given tutorial.
- Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
- Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
- Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
- In UAC window, click Yes.
- Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
- The tool will automatically include C:// disk as a location to decrypt. The file recovery tool will prepopulate the locations to scan, including connected data storage drives or network drives. Click Add folder if you wish to add additional locations.
In Options tab, you can choose to keep encrypted file copies. We recommend leaving this option selected, especially if you do not know if the decryption tool will work. - Click Decrypt to start restoring DAZX files. You will see the progress in the Results tab. Here, you can see messages from the tool, such as whether the decryption procedure is successful, or you need to wait for an update.
You might also be informed that online key was used to encrypt your files. In such case, the decryption tool won't work for you, and the only way to recover your files is to use a data backup.
Meanings of decryptor's messages
The DAZX decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages:
Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID]
This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor's database.
No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]
Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible
This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible.
Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]
This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.
If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn't available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your DAZX extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.
Report Internet crime to legal departments
Victims of DAZX Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:
- In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.
- In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.
- In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.
- In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.
- In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.
- In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.
- In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
- In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.
If you can't find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up "[your country name] report cyber crime". This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities.
Another recommendation is to contact your country's or region’s federal police or communications authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can only open DAZX files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.
To figure out whether you were affected by offline encryption, please go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and see if the string inside of it ends in t1. You can also try using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP/DJVU.
Please follow the guidances provided by the official DAZX decryption tools and believe what they say. If they say it is impossible to decrypt, it really is so. There is no magic tool or human capable of decrypting your files hiding somewhere. Encryption is a technique created to be nearly impossible to decrypt without a special private key (held by the criminals).
We advise scanning with anti-virus, anti-malware, malware removal tools or software like RESTORO to eliminate virus damage on the system. If you do not trust using a single tool, try running one after another. However, we do not recommend keeping several security programs on a computer at once as they can interfere with each other's work.
Beware of fake DAZX decryption tools circulating around the web. Cyber criminals are uploading them to various shady websites, also might be promoting them via suspicious Youtube videos. These programs can infect your computer even more heavily (Trojans, miners, etc.). We suggest being extremely cautious around the web. If there will be an official STOP/DJVU decryption tool available, it will be widely discussed in public media.
Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.
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