How to remove Zarik Locker Ransomware and decrypt .zarik5313 files

What is Zarik Locker Ransomware

Ransomware continues to be a significant threat in the cybersecurity landscape, with Zarik Locker emerging as a recent example of this malicious software. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Zarik Locker Ransomware, detailing its infection mechanisms, file encryption methods, ransom note characteristics, availability of decryption tools, and guidance on handling encrypted files. Upon successful infiltration, Zarik Locker encrypts the victim’s files using a robust encryption algorithm. The ransomware appends a distinctive extension to the filenames (.zarik5313), marking them as inaccessible. For instance, a file originally named 1.jpg would be renamed to 1.jpg.zarik5313 after encryption. Zarik Locker ransomware announces its presence by changing the desktop wallpaper and dropping a text file named @zarik decrypt0r@.txt on the victim’s desktop. The wallpaper and text file serve as ransom notes, informing the victim that their files have been encrypted and that a ransom payment is required to regain access. The ransom note typically specifies the amount demanded (e.g., $300) and provides instructions for contacting the attackers and submitting proof of payment, such as a screenshot of the transaction.

As of the information available, there are no dedicated decryption tools for Zarik Locker ransomware that can guarantee the recovery of encrypted files without the attackers’ intervention. The No More Ransom project is a reputable source for free decryption tools for various ransomware families, but it must be noted that successful decryption often depends on the ransomware having flaws or the availability of decryption keys. Victims of Zarik Locker ransomware are advised against paying the ransom, as this does not guarantee file recovery and may encourage further criminal activity. Instead, the recommended course of action includes:

Running an Antivirus Scan: Use reputable antivirus software, such as Combo Cleaner, to scan the system and remove active ransomware infections.
Isolating the Infected Device: Prevent the ransomware from spreading by disconnecting the infected device from the network and any external storage devices.
Attempting File Recovery: Use instructions and tools below to restore encrypted data.
Restoring from Backups: If available, restore affected files from up-to-date backups that were not connected to the network at the time of infection.

Zarik Locker (desktop wallpaper)

Zarik Locker (ransom note)

How Zarik Locker Ransomware infects computers

Zarik Locker Ransomware infiltrates computers through various vectors, often exploiting user behavior and system vulnerabilities. Common distribution methods include:

Phishing and Social Engineering: Attackers use deceptive emails, private messages, or direct messages containing malicious attachments or links that, when opened, execute the ransomware.
Compromised Websites and Malvertising: Users may encounter ransomware through drive-by downloads from infected websites or by clicking on malicious advertisements.
Pirated Software and Cracking Tools: Illegitimate software downloads and key generators can serve as a conduit for ransomware, as they often contain hidden malware.
Exploitation of Software Vulnerabilities: Outdated software or operating systems with unpatched security flaws can be exploited by attackers to deliver ransomware.

1. Download Zarik Locker Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .zarik5313 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 Zarik Locker Ransomware

Zarik Locker Ransomware files:


@zarik decrypt0r@.txt
{randomname}.exe


Zarik Locker Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .zarik5313 files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .zarik5313 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 .zarik5313 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 Zarik Locker 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 .zarik5313 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 Zarik Locker 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. Zarik Locker 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.