MZLFF Ransomware is a dangerous form of malware that encrypts files and demands a ransom payment for decryption. It primarily spreads through spam emails containing malicious attachments and deceptive links. The ransomware appends the .locked extension to encrypted files, making them inaccessible without a decryption key.
MZLFF Ransomware Virus – Details
Below is a table summarizing critical details about this ransomware threat:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Encrypted File Extension | .locked |
| Ransom Note File Name | MZLFF Ransomware 3.5 |
| Associated Email Addresses | Not specified, but attackers use Telegram handle @JumperYT |
| Detection Names | Varies by antivirus, including Trojan.Ransom.MZLFF |
| Symptoms of Infection | Files are renamed with the .locked extension, a ransom note appears, system performance slows down, unwanted network activity |
| Damage | Loss of personal and business data, risk of further infections, possible identity theft |
| Distribution Methods | Malicious email attachments, phishing links, pirated software, drive-by downloads |
| Danger Level | High – encrypts important files and demands payment, threatens irreversible data loss |
How Did I Get Infected?
Cybercriminals distribute MZLFF Ransomware using multiple infection vectors, including:
- Phishing Emails: Malicious attachments disguised as invoices, receipts, or other important documents.
- Fake Software Downloads: Cracked software, key generators, or fake updates often contain ransomware payloads.
- Compromised Websites: Clicking on unsafe links or downloading files from unsecured websites can lead to infection.
- Drive-by Downloads: Visiting infected websites can trigger an automatic download of malware without the user's consent.
What Does MZLFF Ransomware Do?
Once installed on a system, MZLFF Ransomware executes a series of malicious actions, including:
- File Encryption: The ransomware scans the system for commonly used file formats, encrypting them with a strong AES-256 encryption algorithm. Affected files are renamed with the .locked extension.
- Ransom Note Delivery: A ransom note titled MZLFF Ransomware 3.5 appears on the infected system, demanding a cryptocurrency payment.
- Persistence Mechanisms: The malware modifies Windows Registry keys (Run and RunOnce) to ensure it launches at startup.
- Communication with External Servers: MZLFF Ransomware connects to a remote server to receive further instructions and possibly exfiltrate data.
- Potential System Damage: The ransomware may delete shadow volume copies, preventing users from restoring files through built-in Windows recovery features.
Ransom Note – MZLFF Ransomware 3.5
The ransom note is displayed on the infected system, containing the following text:
MZLFF Ransomware
YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED !
Все ваши файлы на компьютере зашифрованы с помощью 256-битного шифрования уровня AES (Created by Mazellov And JumperYT)
Ваши документы, видео, изображения и другие формы данных теперь недоступны и не могут быть разблокированы без ключа дешифрования. Этот ключ в настоящее время находится у @JumperYT
Чтобы получить этот ключ, переведите 0,000014 BTC на указанный адрес кошелька до истечения времени.
Если вы не предпримете никаких действий в течение этого периода времени, ключ дешифрования будет уничтожен, и доступ к вашим файлам будет безвозвратно потерян а материнская плата компьютера будет сожжена рекурсивной нагрузкой.
\n12mdKVNfAhLbRDLtRWQFhQgydgU6bUMjay
Free decryption offer: Up to 3 files under 5MB (excluding backups and databases).The ransom note falsely claims that failure to pay the ransom will result in permanent file loss and potential hardware damage.
What Are .locked Encrypted Files?
Files encrypted by MZLFF Ransomware have the .locked extension and can no longer be opened or used. Commonly targeted file types include:
- Documents: .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .pdf
- Images: .jpg, .png, .gif
- Audio files: .mp3, .wav, .aac
- Videos: .mp4, .avi, .mkv
- Archives: .zip, .rar, .7z
Example:
Original file: report.docx
Encrypted file: report.docx.locked How to Remove MZLFF Ransomware Virus (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet
Unplug Ethernet cables or disable Wi-Fi to prevent further communication with the attackers' server.
Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode with Networking
- Restart your PC and press F8 (or Shift + Restart for Windows 10/11).
- Choose Safe Mode with Networking to limit ransomware activity.
Step 3: Use SpyHunter to Detect and Remove Malware
- Download SpyHunter.
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Perform a full system scan to detect MZLFF Ransomware components.
- Click Fix Threats to remove the ransomware from your system.
Step 4: Restore Your Files
Unfortunately, paying the ransom does not guarantee file recovery. Try these alternatives:
- Check Backups: Restore files from an external drive or cloud backup.
- Use Shadow Explorer: If shadow copies are intact, use ShadowExplorer to recover files.
- Try Data Recovery Software: Tools like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard may help recover deleted versions of your files.
How to Prevent Ransomware Attacks
- Avoid Suspicious Emails: Do not open attachments or click on links from unknown senders.
- Keep Software Updated: Install the latest security patches for Windows and third-party applications.
- Use Strong Antivirus Software: A real-time protection tool like SpyHunter can help prevent infections.
- Enable Firewall & Network Protection: Configure Windows Defender Firewall to block suspicious activity.
- Backup Your Data Regularly: Store backups on an external drive or a secure cloud service.
- Disable Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP): Many ransomware attacks exploit open RDP ports.
Conclusion
MZLFF Ransomware is a serious threat that can encrypt your files and demand a ransom in Bitcoin. This malware spreads via spam emails, malicious downloads, and compromised websites. The best way to deal with ransomware is prevention, but if you are already infected, use SpyHunter to remove it and attempt data recovery with available tools.
Always stay vigilant and maintain secure computing practices to protect your files from future ransomware threats.
