Zeta Ransomware Removal Guide

Do you know what Zeta Ransomware is?

It is not difficult to recognize Zeta Ransomware as a threat, but it is difficult to get rid of it without facing any after-effects. This devious threat was developed to corrupt your files using a complicated encryption algorithm. According to the information provided by the ransomware itself, RSA-2048 is the encryption algorithm used for the encryption of your files, and this method includes a public key that encrypts files, as well as a private key that is hidden from the user. This key supposedly can help users decrypt your files, which is why cyber criminals hide it from their victims. Users are informed that they need to pay a ransom to get the key, and getting the money is the main objective behind this malicious ransomware infection. Have you paid the ransom already? Are you thinking about it? Continue reading to find out if that is a good idea. This report also shows how to delete Zeta Ransomware from your operating system.

Some users might recognize Zeta Ransomware as CryptoMix Ransomware, Code7 Ransomware, or by other names. This is due to the fact that this ransomware has many different versions, all of which are distinguished by different email addresses. If your operating system was invaded by the threat we are discussing in this report, you will be introduced to a message (via HELP_YOUR_FILES.html and HELP_YOUR_FILES.txt files) pushing you to email zeta@dr.com. This email address belongs to the creators of the ransomware, and they need you to initiate communication for identification purposes. Once you are identified, cyber criminals can send you instructions. These instructions require you to pay a ransom of 5 BTC, a sum that is said to double up after 24 hours. If you are not familiar with the Bitcoin currency, 5 BTC converts to 2900 USD or 2550 EUR. Needless to say, this sum is exceptionally big, and there are not many ransomware infections that demand ransom payments this heavy.Zeta Ransomware Removal GuideZeta Ransomware screenshot
Scroll down for full removal instructions

The ransom note issued by Zeta Ransomware informs that the decryption of files is only possible with a private key, which, as we have mentioned already, is hidden from users. This key is sent to a remote server, and retrieving it is impossible. The message also suggests purchasing Bitcoins and paying the ransom before the fee is doubled. An email address with your unique ID code are represented at the bottom of the message, and you need both of them to contact cyber criminals to receive additional instructions. Because the response is sent to every user individually, there is a possibility that this response will change; however, it is most likely that the same template instructions are provided to every victim of the Zeta Ransomware. The response we have received informed that the ransom paid would be used to support children charities, enable full-time Windows protection, as well as provide us with 3-year tech support. These “benefits” are fictitious, and you should not pay attention to them at all.

Although the price for the decryption of your files is extremely high, you might be willing to pay the ransom if your files are sensitive, and you cannot retrieve them from an external drive, a different computer, or an online storage cloud. Well, the sum is extremely big, and you need to think if your files are worth it. Furthermore, you need to think about the risk of getting scammed. It is very possible that you will give up your money for nothing in return, and you do not want that happening. We advise against paying the ransom, and if you do end up paying it, do so at your own risk. In any case, it is essential to remove Zeta Ransomware, and the guide below shows how to do this. Also, do not forget to employ reliable security software afterward to ensure that you do not have to face ransomware in the future.

Delete Zeta Ransomware from Windows

  1. Launch Explorer (tap Win+E) and enter %AppData% into the address bar.
  2. Delete the files created by the ransomware: AdobeFlashPlayer_b4500913ebcf2f2.exe (might have a unique name), HELP_YOUR_FILES.HTML, and HELP_YOUR_FILES.TXT.
  3. Launch RUN (tap Win+R) and enter regedit.exe to launch Registry Editor.
  4. In the pane on the left move to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\.
  5. Right-click the key called Adobe Reader LicensionSoftWare and select Delete.
  6. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run.
  7. Delete these values: Adobe Reader UpdateHardWare, AdobeFlashPlayersHardWare, and AdobeFlashPlayersSoftWare.
  8. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce.
  9. Delete these values: *Adobe Reader Update32 and *AdobeFlashPlayers32.

N.B. When deleting registry values, check the value data to see if they are, indeed, associated with malware and not authentic software.

In non-techie terms:

The removal of Zeta Ransomware is crucial because this threat can auto-start with Windows, and it could continue encrypting your files even if you manage to decrypt them. This malicious ransomware usually travels via spam email attachments, but it could also use other security vulnerabilities to slither into your operating system. As long as your PC is vulnerable, all kinds of malware could get in without your notice, and that is dangerous for the security of your files, as well as your virtual identity. We suggest employing anti-malware software because it can erase malware and enable full-time protection at the same time. If you have questions about the removal process or the protection of your PC, start a discussion below.