Pizdec ransomware is a dangerous cyber threat that encrypts victims’ files and demands a ransom for their decryption. This malware is part of the notorious GlobeImposter ransomware family, which has been responsible for multiple attacks targeting corporate and individual users alike. Once a system is compromised, Pizdec appends the .pizdec extension to encrypted files and generates a ransom note titled how_to_back_files.html.
This ransom note informs victims that their corporate network has been locked and that the only way to recover files is to pay a ransom in Bitcoin. The attackers request 0.5 BTC or $1000 worth of BTC for the decryptor. However, due to the fluctuating nature of Bitcoin’s value, the actual cost may be significantly higher.
Summary of the Pizdec Ransomware Threat
Category | Details |
---|---|
Threat Name | Pizdec ransomware |
Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker |
Encrypted File Extension | .pizdec |
Ransom Note File Name | how_to_back_files.html |
Ransom Amount | 0.5 BTC or $1000 worth of BTC |
Bitcoin Wallet Address | 3FmLKtBZB435pwa8BTknPKXsUeYkRu4u82 |
Contact Email | solodinero@seznam.cz |
Detection Names | Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.FV), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Purgen.ahp), Microsoft (Ransom:Win32/Necne) |
Symptoms of Infection | Files are inaccessible and have a .pizdec extension, ransom note appears, payment demanded in BTC |
Damage Caused | Files encrypted and cannot be accessed without a decryption key. Additional malware may be installed. |
Distribution Methods | Phishing emails, malicious attachments, torrent sites, fake updates, infected software downloads |
Danger Level | Severe |
Ransom Note Message (how_to_back_files.html)
YOUR CORPORATE NETWORK LOCKED!
ALL YOUR IMPORTANT DATA HAS BEEN ENCRYPTED.
TO RESTORE FILES YOU WILL NEED A DECRYPTOR!
To get the decryptor you should:
Pay for decrypt your network - 0.5 BTC
Buy BTC on one of these sites
hxxps://binance.com
hxxps://www.coinbase.com
Any site you trust
Bitcoin Wallet: 3FmLKtBZB435pwa8BTknPKXsUeYkRu4u82
Send $1000 usd in BTC for decrypt
Our contacts:
e-mail: solodinero@seznam.cz
ToxID: 9CDB535E2DFE3DFAFF17A2263A03A684 B816FC9E69F159301D25E56C8EB47C32468D0F8129BD
You can download TOXChat here: hxxps://tox.chat/download.html
The message must contain your Personal ID! it is at top of this document.
Never pay to any other addresse BTC than those listed here! We do not use any other messengers except TOX and the contact listed here! Remember! Turning to an intermediary - you risk losing your money, always ask for help yourself using the contacts indicated in this document.
How Does Pizdec Ransomware Spread?
Pizdec ransomware primarily spreads through common malware distribution techniques such as:
- Phishing emails: Malicious email attachments that contain infected Microsoft Office, OneNote, PDF, or executable files.
- Fake software downloads: Downloading software from third-party or unofficial websites.
- Malicious online ads: Clicking on infected ads that lead to drive-by downloads.
- Torrents and pirated software: Unverified sources distributing malware-infected programs.
- Trojan infections: Malware that installs ransomware onto the victim’s system through backdoors.
The Danger of Paying the Ransom
Victims are strongly discouraged from paying the ransom, as doing so does not guarantee file recovery. Many cybercriminals take the payment and never provide the decryption key. Furthermore, sending money to these attackers only funds their illegal activities, encouraging them to continue their operations.
Manual Ransomware Removal Guide
Warning: Manual removal is complex and risky. If not done correctly, it can lead to data loss or incomplete removal of ransomware. Only follow this method if you are an advanced user. If unsure, proceed with Method 2 (SpyHunter Removal Guide).
Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet
- Unplug your Ethernet cable or disconnect Wi-Fi immediately to prevent further communication with the ransomware’s command and control (C2) servers.
Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode
For Windows Users:
- For Windows 10, 11:
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig
, and hit Enter. - Go to the Boot tab.
- Check Safe boot and select Network.
- Click Apply and OK, then restart your PC.
- Press Windows + R, type
- For Windows 7, 8:
- Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows loads.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.
For Mac Users:
- Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
- Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
- Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.
Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes
For Windows Users:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
- Right-click on the process and select End Task.
For Mac Users:
- Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
- Look for unusual processes.
- Select the process and click Force Quit.
Step 4: Delete Malicious Files
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
%temp%
, and hit Enter. - Delete all files in the Temp folder.
- Navigate to:
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
C:\Windows\System32
- Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.
For Mac Users:
- Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
- Type
~/Library/Application Support
and delete suspicious folders. - Navigate to
~/Library/LaunchAgents
and remove unknown.plist
files.
Step 5: Remove Ransomware from Registry or System Settings
For Windows Users:
Warning: Incorrect changes in the Registry Editor can damage your system. Proceed with caution.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit
, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
- Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
- Right-click and select Delete.
For Mac Users:
- Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
- Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
- Navigate to
~/Library/Preferences
and remove malicious.plist
files.
Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
rstrui
, and hit Enter. - Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.
For Mac Users:
- Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
- Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
- Choose a backup prior to the ransomware infection and restore your system.
Step 7: Use a Decryption Tool (If Available)
- Visit No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) and check if a decryption tool is available for your ransomware variant.
Step 8: Recover Files Using Backup
- If you have backups on an external drive or cloud storage, restore your files.
Automatic Ransomware Removal Using SpyHunter
If manual removal seems too risky or complicated, using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter is the best alternative.
Step 1: Download SpyHunter
Download SpyHunter from the official link: Download SpyHunter
Or follow the official installation instructions here:
SpyHunter Download Instructions
Step 2: Install SpyHunter
- Open the downloaded file (
SpyHunter-Installer.exe
). - Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
- Once installed, launch SpyHunter.
Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan
- Click on Start Scan Now.
- SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
- Wait for the scan to complete.
Step 4: Remove Detected Threats
- After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
- Click Fix Threats to remove the ransomware.
Step 5: Use SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk (If Needed)
If you are dealing with a stubborn ransomware variant, SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk provides custom fixes to remove advanced threats.
Step 6: Restore Your Files
If your files are encrypted:
- Try No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) for decryption tools.
- Restore from cloud storage or external backups.
Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks
- Keep backups on an external hard drive or cloud storage.
- Use SpyHunter to detect threats before they infect your system.
- Enable Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
- Avoid suspicious emails, attachments, and links.
- Update Windows, macOS & software regularly.