Remove ZFDV Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .zfdv FILES)

remove ZFDV ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .zfdv extension (free guide)

ZFDV ransomware aims to lock victim’s files and use extortion

Contents

ZFDV ransomware aims to lock victim’s files and use extortion
Ways through which ransomware is distributed
Remove ZFDV Ransomware Virus and Decrypt Your Files
Decrypt ZFDV files
Frequently Asked Questions

ZFDV is the name of a ransomware-type virus originating from the STOP/DJVU ransomware gang. This computer virus is distinguished from a .zfdv extension it appends to encrypted files, and the ransom note (_readme.txt) dropped on the target system. To better understand how this ransomware renames files, see this example: 1.jpg becomes 1.jpg.zfdv, 2.txt becomes 2.txt.zfdv and so on. On top of that, the file icons change to blank and these files become inaccessible – they cannot be opened or edited.

Contained in the ransom note are instructions from the ransomware operators. The crooks reassure that the victim can still recover all data, however, this can only be done with the help of ZFDV decryption tool and key. The criminals offer to sell it to the victim for a specific price. In simple terms, the ransomware operators make sure that the victim won’t be able to access his own files and then offer a solution for money. Attempting to obtain money by means of a threat is extortion.

_readme.txt note delivers a message from cybercriminals

The ransom note named as _readme.txt explains that all of victim’s files were encrypted and that there is only solution leading to data recovery. The note asks the victim to write to provided email addresses belonging to the cybercriminals – admin@helpdata.top and supportsys@airmail.cc, include the personal ID (provided at the end of the ransom note) and attach one sample of encrypted file to the message. The criminals promise to respond with a decrypted file version to show a proof that they can recover the rest of victim’s files.

On top of that, the attackers will explain how the victim can pay the ransom. They will only accept payments made via cryptocurrency to remain anonymous. Speaking of the ransom amount, the crooks were noticed to ask $490 or $980. According to the ransom note, the lower price point applies if the victim contacts the attackers within 72 hours from the infection timestamp.

Cybersecurity experts from our team do not recommend paying the ransom. Moreover, we strongly recommend all those who were affected to read the official FBI recommendations. Remember that there are no guarantees that criminals will help you to decrypt the data, besides, money will simply motivate them to continue their activities. Finally, if you pay up, you might end up being blackmailed repeatedly.

Additional malware dropped

STOP/DJVU variants such as ZFDV ransomware often arrive into the target system along with Remote Access Trojans (RATs) known under the names of AZORULT and VIDAR. Both of these threats are known to help cybercriminals to steal the following kinds of information from compromised systems:

System and hardware information;
Active processes and installed software list;
Browser data, saved login credentials, browsing history, cookies and more;
App login information;
Banking information.

With their hands on such information, the criminals may attempt to log into your accounts and steal them, or try to blackmail you. For this reason, we recommend taking action immediately to stop the threat actors from blackmailing and extorting you further.

Remove ZFDV ransomware virus using a robust antivirus solution while in Safe Mode in Networking – remember that there is no other easy way to eliminate malware unless you’re a malware expert. Attempts to delete malicious remains manually can result in a failure, and presence of dangerous files can leave the system vulnerable to further attacks. Once you’re done with the removal, consider downloading RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

Name	ZFDV Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	FDCV, FEFG, NNUZ, QLLN, EWDF, UIHJ, ZFDV (find full list here)
Version	489th
Extension	.zfdv
Cybercriminal emails	admin@helpdata.top and supportsys@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 .zfdv 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.PAL!MTB (Microsoft), Trojan.Crypt (A) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.47850419 (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).

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Files encrypted by this ransomware usually have blank icons and additional file extensions. The folder containing the files will also contain a copy of the ransom note. You can see a screenshot of such compromised data folder down below.

Ways through which ransomware is distributed

Cybercriminals usually distribute ransomware via phishing emails containing malicious attachments, fake downloads strategically named as pirated software versions, drive-by downloads, fake ads offering software update tools and similar.

The most widely used method for STOP/DJVU and other malware distribution is illegal downloads that computer users often search for when trying to avoid paying fees for legitimate license keys. Malware like ZFDV virus can be found in deceptive sites offering Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, AutoCAD, Virtual DJ Pro, Cubase and other popular computer software cracks. We recommend computer users to drop this shady habit because it can only cause you problems. You can find legitimate software versions in their official websites.

Another technique that’s extremely prevalent is malicious email spam. Cybercriminals try to deceive potential targets by pretending to be someone from a well-known company or a governmental institution. Normally, they try to create a sense of urgency, for example, by claiming that the user’s email account or a website will be closed; stating that one’s activity is monitored; suggesting that there’s a pending payment that needs to be reviewed and similar

Users are advised to practice caution when checking emails and stay from suspicious ones altogether. Another great idea is to inspect the greeting line (scammers often do not know your full name and instead address the victim with a line similar to ‘Dear customer’) and also check for typo mistakes or spoofed email address.

Finally, STOP/DJVU victims, or victims of any ransomware in general, should be careful when looking for available data decryption solutions online. Bear in mind that scammers often try to trick ransomware victims by offering malware in disguise of a decryption solution, or try to recommend a “hacker” who can allegedly restore encrypted data. Please visit reputable websites only and avoid suspicious sources that claim to provide miracle tools.

Remove ZFDV Ransomware Virus and Decrypt Your Files

Please follow the guidelines provided below that explain how to remove ZFDV ransomware virus safely. Make sure you do not skip any of the steps. You can use any antivirus you like, but make sure it is a robust and powerful one. Afterward, we recommend downloading this tool – RESTORO to identify virus damage and repair it (full version required).

Our team also advises reporting the ransomware attack incident to local law enforcement agency and changing all of the passwords used on the compromised computer. In addition, read tips on how to decrypt or repair files damaged by STOP/DJVU ransomware versions.

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Our team recommends removing malware using a professional antivirus software and then using the following tool to repair virus damage to Windows system files:

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RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

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ZFDV 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 ZFDV 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 ZFDV 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.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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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 ZFDV files

Fix and open large ZFDV 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 ZFDV 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. ZFDV Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like FDCV, FEFG, NNUZ, QLLN, EWDF, UIHJ, ZFDV (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 ZFDV 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 ZFDV 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 ZFDV 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 ZFDV 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 ZFDV 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

✓ How can I open .ZFDV files?

You can only open ZFDV files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

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.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official ZFDV 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).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

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.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake ZFDV 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

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.