Remove TOWZ Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .towz FILES)
Dangers associated with TOWZ ransomware virus
Contents
TOWZ ransomware is a newly released computer virus that aims to quickly encrypt all files on any computer it infects. It is believed to have emanated from the STOP/DJVU family, a group of cybercriminals that have gained notoriety for being responsible for a series of malware churned out quickly. This latest version is essentially similar to other versions from the same malware family. After encrypting each file, the virus appends .towz extension to it, thereby making it distinct from others. To illustrate it better, files that had names such as 1.jpg, 2.png or 3.jpeg prior to the malware infection will automatically transform to 1.jpg.towz, 2.png.towz or 3.jpeg.towz after the data encryption is completed.
While those changes are still taking effect, the virus also releases a copy of a ransom note called _readme.txt into every affected data folder. The aim of this file is to inform the victim about the ransomware attack and the necessity of paying a particular amount of money as a ransom fee. They will emphasize that such payment is mandatory; otherwise, the victim stands to lose the entire encrypted files forever. After the warning, they often forward two email addresses, i.e., datarestorehelp@airmail.cc, support@bestyourmail.ch, which they intend to serve as a communication medium between the victim and attacker.
At this point, the victim has just two options: to seek the help of cybercriminals or ignore them and look for other means to recover their lost data. There are several ways to restore lost data, and we will discuss it later on.
However, if the victim tries to reach out to the cybercriminals to assist one in reversing the encryption, the victim will receive a notification informing them that the ransom must be paid first. However, granted that $980 is the default ransom fee, the perpetrators will state that a 50% discount can be leveraged if the victim can be fast enough to pay within three days max. In other words, the ransom fee now becomes $490, but once the fixed window period elapses, they will insist that only the full ransom fee is what could be accepted.
This is not the only issue the victim has to face considering that payment method could be another problem. Cybercriminals do not accept direct bank payments or transfers because they know such channels could be traced to them. So, they instruct the victim to purchase cryptocurrency equivalent to the ransom fee and transfer the same to a wallet address to be provided by them. Be that as it may, victims of ransomware attacks are strongly advised never to pay ransom fees as demanded by cybercriminals. Globally recognized security agencies, including the FBI, are also against it. Some of the reasons given are:
- When victims pay the ransom fee, they put themselves in danger of being targeted in future attacks/extortions.
- None of the existing laws support ransom payment.
- Paying the ransom does not benefit the victim since there is no guarantee they would receive decryption tools; records have shown that cybercriminals mostly don’t keep their promise.
- It makes criminality profitable, encouraging cybercriminals to continue attacking other users.
- When huge funds are paid to cybercriminals, it helps them to build their capacity.
The secondary payload explained
Granted that the main priority of cybercriminals is to spread TOWZ ransomware virus in order to encrypt victims’ files which enable them to request ransom fees, they also spread RATs while doing so.
Otherwise called Remote Access Trojans, RATs are used by cybercriminals to have remote access to sensitive personal data. Therefore, if the primary malware remains undetected by the victim, the cybercriminals might be able to steal vital information such as social security details, banking details, software login details, and browsing history, among similar others. One of such RATs used by cybercriminals is known as AZORULT Trojan.
Computer users affected by this severe malware are advised to scan their computers with a robust antivirus solution. This helps to detect existing malware threats and remove TOWZ ransomware virus remains. However, another good thing about investing into a reputable AV brand is that you can enable real-time protection feature among many others to monitor computer’s security in real-time and prevent user from accidentally downloading damaging files to the system. One of AV brands that we trust is INTEGO Antivirus. We also recommend downloading RESTORO (secure download link) that can be used to repair Windows files damaged by computer malware.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | TOWZ Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | EEBN, OFWW, OFOQ, OFLG, ADWW, ADLG (find full list here) |
| Version | 577th |
| Extension | .towz |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@bestyourmail.ch, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| Additional malware dropped | Azorult or Vidar Trojan |
| Damage | The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .towz 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, League of Legends. |
| Detection names | Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.MK!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link). |
REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE
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Cybercriminals distribute ransomware in a variety of ways
There are various deceptive means used by cybercriminals to distribute malware. It can be via Peer-2-Peer sharing of software contents, malicious online torrents, or emails along with attachments etc. To increase their chances of luring potential victims, they often clone popular software or those that are expensive and make them available for download at little or no cost. What their unsuspecting target audience doesn’t understand is that such software content are used as bait in spreading malware.
Those who usually fall victim are software users that don’t like paying the price demanded by the original content producers. They feel it makes no sense to pay for it when they can easily get it for free. So, P2P sharing or malicious online torrents become their go-to sources. On the contrary, they end up infecting their computer with destructive malware and possible loss of data or even money.
Aside from putting their computer at unnecessary risk, it is also a bad idea to use other brands’ copyright products illegally. It negatively impacts the IT industry and is also a criminal offense.
After taking account of the complaints made by victims over time, we observed that certain popular software contents are usually cloned and used in embedding malware which they upload to malicious online torrents. You can see the list we compiled below:
- HP Printer Drivers;
- Corel Draw;
- Adobe Photoshop;
- PES 20;
- Internet Download Manager;
- VMware Workstation;
- Cubase;
- Microsoft Office;
- Adobe Illustrator;
- Adobe Premiere Pro;
- League of Legends;
- AutoCad;
- Tenorshare 4ukey.
Uses of emails and attachments or links are other means used by cybercriminals to spread malware. They might even impersonate acquaintances or notable brands (Amazon, DHL, Alibaba, and Microsoft are some of their favorites) and use business terms like Tracking Details or Order Summary to name the accompanying attachment.
Computer users should also be aware that even though files like PDF, XLS or DOCX are popular and often used for genuine reasons, cybercriminals have now devised means of using them as tools for spreading malware. They exploit the macro properties available in them to attach and also trigger malware infection when opened at the user’s end.
Computer users should stay cautious when checking their email and inspect each e-letter with great care. Details such as grammar mistakes, urgent tone, non-professional email address, or unfamiliar greeting line are some of the most common signs that could warn about malevolent intentions of the sender.
Victims of TOWZ ransomware virus are also warned to stay away from websites that make spurious claims of having decryption solutions because they’re mostly fake and used by them to spread other forms of malware.
Remove TOWZ Ransomware Virus Immediately
Once detected in any computer, this ransomware virus should be deleted without delay. This will enable the victim to salvage some of their files wherever possible and to equally prevent the loss of vital data via RATs. To ensure the optimal result, the use of strong antivirus such as INTEGO Antivirus is highly recommended. Also, the compromised computer should be booted via Safe Mode with Networking option before running a full system scan. For detailed instructions how to remove TOWZ ransomware virus, follow the guide provided below.
You should also take the following steps after getting rid of the malware:
- Change all passwords used on the compromised computer.
- Make use of backup to restore lost files.
- Let relevant government agencies know about the cyber-attack.
Before we wrap it up, always remember that being responsible and avoiding illegal acts (as highlighted in this article) that can put your computer at risk is the best way you can preempt cyber-attacks from cyber criminals. Also, ensure that your antivirus is always updated and running at all times.
OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND
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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TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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, which also includes data recovery software. 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
Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.
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Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.
Decrypt TOWZ files
Fix and open large TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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. TOWZ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like EEBN, OFWW, OFOQ, OFLG, ADWW, ADLG (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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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 TOWZ 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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