How to remove ZipLOCK Ransomware and decrypt .zip files

What is ZipLOCK Ransomware

ZipLOCK Ransomware is an insidious malware variant that diverges from the typical ransomware behavior. Instead of encrypting files using complex algorithms, it aggregates the victim’s data into password-protected ZIP archives. This unconventional approach results in original files being renamed with a prepended “ZipLOCK” and an appended .zip extension, transforming example.jpg into [ZipLOCK]example.jpg.zip. This unique file modification method indicates that the ransomware is designed to mislead the victim into believing their data has been irreparably encrypted when, in reality, the files are archived and protected by a password. Ransom demands are made through a note titled [ZipLOCK]INSTRUCTIONS.txt, deposited in various affected directories. This ransom note encourages victims to refrain from using recovery software, threatening that such actions may damage files. It provides email addresses for contact and offers to decrypt five files for free as proof of the cybercriminals’ ability to restore the remaining data.

While standard decryption tools are commonly useless against typical ransomware, the situation with ZipLOCK is slightly different due to its method of operation. No decryption tool currently exists that can bypass the ZIP archive password set by the attackers without directly contacting them. However, methods for manually decrypting or recovering files may be attempted if the user can attempt password-cracking software tools specifically designed for ZIP files. It’s important first to isolate the infected system entirely to prevent any further data manipulation or additional malware intrusions. Before attempting any recovery or decryption, creating backups of the corrupted files is crucial. While dealing with ZipLOCK, consulting with cybersecurity professionals or reporting to local authorities is strongly advised, as self-attempts could potentially worsen the scenario or permanently lock files beyond any recovery strategy.

How ZipLOCK Ransomware infects computers

ZipLOCK Ransomware primarily infiltrates computers through deceptive methods, exploiting user vulnerabilities and common online practices. It often spreads via malicious email attachments or links that appear legitimate, tricking users into downloading and executing the malware. Cybercriminals may also use compromised websites or malicious advertisements (malvertising) to deliver the ransomware payload. Additionally, ZipLOCK can be distributed through pirated software, fake software updates, or cracked tools, which unsuspecting users download from unreliable sources. Once executed, the ransomware hunts for files on the infected system to place them into password-protected ZIP archives, effectively locking the user out of their own data. This highlights the necessity for users to exercise caution with email attachments, avoid downloading software from untrustworthy sites, and maintain updated antivirus software to mitigate such threats.

1. Download ZipLOCK Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .zip files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like ZipLOCK Ransomware

ZipLOCK Ransomware files:


[ZipLOCK]INSTRUCTIONS.txt
{randomname}.exe


ZipLOCK Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .zip files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .zip files. Download it here:

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .zip files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with ZipLOCK Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .zip files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like ZipLOCK Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Dashboard

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Alert

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Blocked

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. ZipLOCK Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.