Do you know what Zixer2 Ransomware is?
According to our specialists, Zixer2 Ransomware is most likely a newer variant of a malicious file-encrypting application called Globe Ransomware. It means the malware should work in a very similar manner, but we will talk about it later in the article. As for now, we would like you to know that if you need a decryption tool to unlock Zixer2 Ransomware's enciphered files, you could try to find a tool created for Globe Ransomware; it should be available for anyone to download as it was created by volunteer IT specialists. Of course, we cannot guarantee it will work, so if you decide to use it, we advise you to test on a few copy files just in case. Needless to say, we do not recommend paying the ransom as there are other ways to recover your data. Users should think about the threat’s removal too because leaving such a malicious application unattended could be a bad idea. If you think you can erase it manually, we advise using the removal guide placed below.
Same as the previous variants, Zixer2 Ransomware might be distributed with infected email attachments. Our researchers say Spam emails is still one of the most popular methods to spread threats like ransomware, so users should always take extra precautions when encountering suspicious attachments, e.g. from unknown sources, with random titles, containing executable files or installers, and so on. Additionally, it is advisable to increase your computer’s security by employing a reputable antimalware tool from a reliable company. At times when you doubt the file’s reliability, you could use such software to scan the suspicious data and find out whether it is safe to open it.
Zixer2 Ransomware should settle on the system right after the user launches an infected file. For starters, the malware might place an executable file with a random name in the %LOCALAPPDATA% directory. Its next move should be to create a particular key in the Windows Registry. The last file created by the infection is a .hta file called README.hta. This particular file opens a ransom note containing a specific message from the hackers behind this malicious application. According to it, all the user’s personal files are encrypted. What files can be enciphered? The research shows the malware could lock photos, pictures, documents, archives, videos, and many other personal files located on the computer.
Moreover, the ransom note not only states what has happened but also demands users not to try to decrypt data on their own or erase the malicious application. Instead, Zixer2 Ransomware's creators instruct to contact them via email. No doubt, with the reply you should get full instructions on how to pay the ransom and get decryption tools. The problem is, there are no guarantees the hackers will hold on to their promises. Therefore, we advise you to look for free Globe Ransomware decryption tool created by IT volunteers. Since the threats are almost identical, the tool might be able to decrypt your data, so there is no need to take any risks.
Lastly, we would like to stress that it is important to delete the malware if you want your system to be secure. We could suggest a couple of ways to get rid of Zixer2 Ransomware; thus, you can choose the one that is best for you. Firstly, the malicious application can be eliminated manually while following the removal guide placed below. It explains how to locate and delete data belonging to the infection manually. The second option is to download a trustworthy antimalware tool and perform a full system scan. After the scan, you would only need to click the removal button, and the tool could take care of the malware and other detected threats automatically.
Eliminate Zixer2 Ransomware
- Press Windows Key+E.
- Copy and paste this %LOCALAPPDATA% directory into the Explorer.
- Find an executable file with a random name, right-click it and press Delete.
- Close the Explorer.
- Press Windows Key+R.
- Type regedit and click OK.
- Navigate to: HKCU\Software
- Look for a key called Globe, right-click it and choose Delete.
- Exit the Registry Editor.
- Find and erase the malicious application’s installer.
- Remove the README.hta files.
- Empty the Recycle bin.
In non-techie terms:
Zixer2 Ransomware is one of the Globe Ransomware variants. Same as the versions created before it, the infection can encipher a broad range of different file types. No doubt, by distributing such malicious application, its creators seek to find users who are willing to pay for decryption tool. However, it is not advisable to pay the ransom even if you have spare money. Doing so might be the same as throwing the money out since the hackers might not keep up to their promises and leave you without a decryptor. Naturally, we would advise you not to risk your money and look for alternative decryption methods. As we mentioned in the article, the malware should be erased for the sake of the system. To complete this task, you could use the removal guide placed above or a reputable antimalware tool.