Geek's Advice

Zphs ransomware strikes computers to encrypt all data on them

Zphs is a a new type ransomware which belongs to ever expanding Dharma family. It rests solely on the purpose of encrypting ordinary users’ personal files, thus making a profit. When an intrusion occurs, victim is left with a text file named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt in every affected folder and a pop-up window – both contain information about what happened to your system. The virus’ algorithm renames all affected files by adding victim’s ID, zphc@cock.li email address and .zphs extension. To illustrate, a file named A.jpeg might be changed to A.jpeg.id-C168B191.[zphc@cock.li].zphs or similar. Ever-growing concern for new types of ransomware is the reason why it is crucial to talk about this as soon as possible. 

Like previously mentioned, Zphs virus creates a text file and a pop-up window which is shown to the user. The information inside of it is quite straightforward – the message states, that personal files have been encrypted. It also claims that the only way to regain access to this data is to contact the hackers via email and meet their demands as soon as possible which is usually a certain fee paid in Bitcoin.

In addition, cybercriminals’ contacts are provided – they urge victims to reach out to them by sending emails to zphc@cock.li or adresspower@tutanota.com. Unfortunately, these kinds of ransomware usually use a military-grade encrypting ciphers, which means, basically, one thing – decrypting using third-party software is merely impossible, since that would take an enormous amount time and resources. Also, the algorithm creates individual decryption keys for every case, which are in hacker’s possession.

So, the only hypothetical way to regain access to encrypted files is to do as it is told in ransom message generated by Zphs virus, right? Although paying to the hackers might seem like a viable option, you should never take this course of action, for one simple reason – there are countless cases, when even the demands are met, criminals decide not to grant the access to victim’s files. Since there is no arbitrary institution, they are left with the option to do as they wish even if they get the money. They simply should not be trusted in order to avoid fruitless financial casualties.

This leaves us with only one viable option to retrieve your files – using a backup (provided you have one) and recovering them this way. However, keep in mind that you should use your backup only when the malware is completely removed from your system. Steps to do so will be given further down below.

Threat Summary

Zphs ransomware spreads via typical crypto-virus distribution vectors

There is no shortage of ways by which you can get infected by ransomware, whether it is Zphs or any other. Most of intrusions happen when illegal software downloads are being carried out. For example, downloading various keygens, cracks, activation tools, photoshop or video editing software, games, etc. might expose your system to potential cyber threat. To counter this, you should always surf on official webpages and pages that are verified by Google or trustworthy anti-virus software. We can strongly argue, that avoiding using various file-sharing networks like Torrents or zMule might also lessen the chance of being infected.

It is important to note, that by downloading irresponsibly you could get infected by Trojan virus, which then could trigger chain infection, thus also leaving you with personal data encrypted. Another method which is used by hackers is malspam campaigns. These campaigns usually tend to send deceitful emails to an enormous amount of people in order to breach their systems’ securities. In essence, these emails are disguised as some sort of a message which would provoke reaction from the recipient.

For example, one might receive an email containing a random business offer, resume etc. Typically, these emails have files attached to them, which could come in various formats –  from .exe and archive files, to even .pdf or .docx. With this in mind, we recommend to never open any links or files inside suspicious-looking emails to avoid file-encoding ransomware, such as Zphs virus.

One more method which is used by cybercriminals is fake updater software. Basically, a pop-up update window, which looks completely legit, might appear when surfing on the internet. You should always be aware, because fake updaters, once interacted with, could install malware on your system.

How to remove Zphs virus from your system

First, if you notice any signs of being infected by ransomware, we highly recommend you act accordingly as soon as possible. Second, you should remove the malware and all associated files using robust malware damage-eliminating software. Our geeks recommend RESTORO since it will make the removal shorter and simpler. To remove Zphs ransomware virus from your system, follow these steps.

Post ZPHS virus removal, we suggest creating data backups and inspecting these ransomware prevention guidelines to avoid getting infected with similar virus in the future.

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.

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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.

Matt Corey

Matt Corey is passionate about the latest tech news, gadgets and everything IT. Matt loves to criticize Windows and help people solve problems related to this operating system. When he’s not tinkering around with new gadgets he orders, he enjoys skydiving, as it is his favorite way to clear his mind and relax.