Geek's Advice

ZORAB2 ransomware description

ZORAB2 virus is a new variant of ZORAB ransomware. It is a data-encrypting malware that marks affected files with .zorab2 extension. The encrypted data cannot be accessed by the victim, and therefore the virus drops ransom-demanding note called –DECRYPT–ZORAB.txt and a sound recording of the same text called –DECRYPT–ZORAB.vbs. The notes are saved into every affected file folder. The notes suggest contacting the attackers via helpdependent@firemail.de.

The note left by ZORAB2 ransomware states that the virus has encrypted victim’s important documents, photos, databases and other files. In order to return the encrypted data, the victim is asked to pay a ransom to the cybercriminals and receive file decryption tool and unique key. The note explains that the ransom must be paid in cryptocurrency, to be specific, in Bitcoin, as this helps to keep the transaction untraceable.

According to the criminals, the ransom price depends on how fast the victim contacts the attackers. The attackers also promise to prove that they have the means for data decryption and so they suggest sending one encrypted file to them for test decryption. The note warns not to send a file that contains valuable information, as such file might not be returned.

Finally, the ZORAB2 virus ransom note warns not to change files in any way, or use any third-party tools for data recovery, as this might prevent the victim from restoring data using the criminals’ tools. Finally, the note provides an e-mail address to contact the crooks: helpdependent@firemail.de, and victim’s personal ID.

If your computer has been hit by the said malware, you should remove ZORAB2 ransomware from you computer as soon as possible. We recommend you to follow the instructions below the article to prepare your PC for malware removal using a tool like RESTORO.

Ransomware-type threats are extremely popular nowadays, therefore we always suggest creating data backups on external data storage devices for maximum security. In case of a file-encrypting virus such as STOP/DJVU, XATI, BOOP or OONN attack, such data backups can be used for free data recovery. In rare cases, ransomware-encrypted files can be restored in cases when the virus code contains bugs or flaws that can be used by security researchers to create free decryption tools.

Virus Summary

Distribution methods of file-encrypting viruses

ZORAB2 ransomware, similarly to its first variant, spread via traditional crypto-malware distribution methods. First and most common method is malicious email spam with deceptive attachments. Such fake emails typically inform the target about a non-existent tax refund, invoice, or other “important” document and urge to open it and view its contents. Unfortunately, once launched, such documents can activate and execute malware on victim’s computer. This can be done with a help of JavaScript or Macros that are available at majority of document formats nowadays.

Another common ransomware distribution method is deceptive pop-ups originating from dangerous websites. Such fake ads can urge the victim to install a “required” Flash or Adobe update, but once the victim agrees with such fake offer and clicks the ad, the malicious download will be saved into the computer.

Finally, file-locking viruses tend to hide and await for victims in illegal premium software licence activating-tools, such as software cracks or keygens, or programs like KMSPico. Criminals often pack such files with malicious extras that infect the whole file system as soon as the victim opens the malicious payload.

Visual representation of virus infection

The following paragraph includes infected file folder screenshots and ransom note contents left by ZORAB2 ransomware virus.

Screenshot of file folder affected by the said virus:

Contents of –DECRYPT–ZORAB.txt note:

—+-= ZORAB =-+—

Attention! Attention! Attention!

Your documents, photos, databases and other important files are encrypted!

Don’t worry, you can return all your files!

The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.

This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.

if you want to decrypt your files

You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us.

The only method of recovering files is to purchase : —> Zorab Decryptor <—

This tool will decrypt all your encrypted files.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail below

What guarantees do we give to you?

Its just a business. We absolutely do not care about you and your deals, except getting benefits.

You can send one your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free. But File must not contain valuable information.

+–Warning–+

DONT try to change files by yourself, DONT use any third party software for restoring your data

E-mail address to contact us : helpdependent@firemail.de

Your personal ID: –

Remove ZORAB2 ransomware virus easily

To remove ZORAB2 ransomware safely, we suggest following the tutorial provided below. You will need to boot your Windows PC into Safe Mode with Networking, then run automatic malware removal software. It is a much safer way to identify malicious remains automatically than try to identify them manually – it can be challenging even for security experts.

After a successful ZORAB2 virus removal, you can start trying to recover your files from data backups. This way, you’ll ensure that data backup won’t be damaged once plugged into the compromised computer. In case you do not have a backup copy of your files, you can backup the encrypted data in case a free ZORAB2 decryption tool appears in the future. However, do not get your hopes too high as this is extremely rare in crypto-malware industry.

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

REMOVE & PROTECT WITH INTEGO

Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7.. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs.

Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.

Read full review here.

STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

DOWNLOAD RESTORO

RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically.

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

Read full review here.

GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

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

If you're looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek's Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

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.

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.