Do you know what Zatrov Ransomware is?
Zatrov Ransomware is a regular ransomware infection that comes from a known group of similar cybersecurity threats. Getting infected with this program might be a terrifying experience, but panic will not help you solve anything. You need to remove Zatrov Ransomware from your system at once so that you could focus on restoring your files. That might be quite challenging, especially if you do not have a system back-up. However, the sooner you terminate Zatrov Ransomware, the sooner you will be able to look for ways to get your files back.
As mentioned, Zatrov Ransomware comes from a big group of similar infections. The group is called the STOP Ransomware family, and this group includes such infections as Pedro Ransomware, Cetori Ransomware, Masodas Ransomware, and others. All these programs look very similar, and they also function in a similar manner. What’s more, we can assume that they employ similar distribution patterns, too. Therefore, if you know how one application from this group spreads around, you should be able to avoid other programs, too. The key is to remain attentive because ransomware programs rely on user’s gullibility.
What we mean is that Zatrov Ransomware usually spreads through spam emails and unsafe Remote Desktop Protocol connections. It also means that users allow this dangerous infection to enter their systems willingly. They simply do not understand that they download and install a malicious file. Now, why does that happen? It happens because the files that distribute malware look like the real deal, and users are tricked into believing that they are opening legitimate files. But if you didn’t expect to receive those files or those files come from unknown sources, it is not a good idea to open them. Delete such files without any delay to protect your system from harm.
Zatrov Ransomware screenshot
Scroll down for full removal instructions
On the other hand, if Zatrov Ransomware or any other similar program manages to enter your system, you can expect a swift file encryption. These programs do not play around. They automatically run a full system scan and locates all the file types they can encrypt.
The good news is that files encrypted by Zatrov Ransomware can be decrypted for free if they were encrypted with an offline key. However, if the key used to encrypt your files was generated online, you might need to look for other methods to get your files back.
Zatrov Ransomware is very direct about what it wants from you. This infection drops the ransom note _readme.txt, and you can find it basically in every affected folder. The ransom note says the following:
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
<…>
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Needless to say, paying the ransom would not solve anything. You would only lose your money, and there is no guarantee that the criminals would issue the decryption key. Thus, it is better to rely on a professional technician to remove Zatrov Ransomware for good, and then focus on restoring your files.
What is the best way to get your files back? The best way is obviously a file back-up. A file back-up refers to a place where you save copies of your files. For instance, it can an external hard drive or a cloud drive service. The point is to save copies of your latest files, so that you would have them in case they disappear.
Now, as far as the removal of Zatrov Ransomware is concerned, you can follow the manual removal guidelines below this description to get rid of this infection. At the same time, if manual removal seems too complicated to you, you can acquire a licensed security application that will help you delete Zatrov Ransomware for good. With this security tool of choice, you will also be able to protect your computer from other similar threats. But please be sure to avoid potentially dangerous files that might be part of ransomware distribution network.
How to Remove Zatrov Ransomware
- Delete the most recently downloaded files.
- Press Win+R and type regedit. Click OK.
- Open HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run.
- Right-click the SysHelper value on the right side and select Delete.
- Use the Win+R command to access %AppData% and %LocalAppData% folders.
- Delete a folder with a long random alpha-numeric filename.
- Use Win+R to access the %WinDir% directory.
- Go to Syste32\Tasks and delete the Time Triger Task.
- Scan your computer with SpyHunter.
In non-techie terms:
Zatrov Ransomware is a generic ransomware infection that still does its job properly by encrypting your files. A public decryption tool for the STOP Ransomware family may not work on this program, so you must look for other ways to restore your files. Please remove Zatrov Ransomware today, and then make sure you stay away from similar intruders in the future. Should you need any assistance, do not hesitate to leave us a comment.