OBZ Ransomware is a file encrypting malware that is said to be very similar to U2K and MME Ransomware, possibly created by the same cybercriminals. Infections like OBZ Ransomware can be distributed via software bundles, so if you tend to download freeware or pirated apps distributed via torrent or cracked software sites, you may end up installing such threats.
Like USK and MME Ransomware, OBZ Ransomware appends the filenames of affected files with the telltale ‘.OBZ’ extension. In other words, a file that may have initially been titled ‘Image1.jpg’, after the encryption will look like ‘Image1.jpg.OBZ.’
Another trait that U2K, MME and OBZ Ransomware infections have in common is the fact that their ransom notes, typically named ‘ReadMe.txt,’ contain instructions on how to contact the hackers and pay a ransom through a dedicated website hosted on the TOR network.
Victims would have to download and install the TOR Browser to even attempt to contact the hackers, which is something we would never suggest for victims to do. The truth is that paying the hackers does not guarantee that you will ever receive a file decryptor.
OBZ Ransomware can hide its presence on a victim’s device by masquerading as a seemingly innocent process named ‘Traffic Light.’ This makes it harder for victims to ever determine that they are in danger from an oncoming ransomware infection. Also, it is important to note that the process name may vary.
How Do I Deal with the OBZ Ransomware Infection?
To protect yourself from the OBZ Ransomware attack, you should practice safe web browsing habits like refraining from opening email attachments from unknown senders and downloading programs from unreliable sources. You should also have a reputable malware remediation tool installed on your computer. That way, you can regularly scan for elements associated with this troublesome ransomware infection and other malware. Also, to reduce the potential damage of a future ransomware infection, please consider backing up your files on an external hard drive or cloud storage.
