Arizona (.AZ) ransomware virus - removal and decryption options
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What is Arizona ransomware?
Our researchers discovered the Arizona ransomware during an investigation into new malware samples uploaded to VirusTotal.
After running this malicious program on our test system, we noticed it encrypting files and appending their filenames with the ".AZ" extension. For example, a file initially titled "1.jpg" appeared as "1.jpg.AZ","2.jpg" as "2.jpg.AZ", "3.jpg" as "3.jpg.AZ", etc.
Once the encryption process was completed, this ransomware created a message named "README.txt" on the desktop. It also changed the desktop wallpaper.
Screenshot of files encrypted by Arizona ransomware:
Arizona ransomware ransom note in detail
What we encountered in the "README.txt" file was by no means a standard ransom note. It began ordinarily enough by stating that the inaccessible files were encrypted and that only the cyber criminals could decrypt them. However, the text file also contained a bizarre list of FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) that included various Internet meme and pop culture references.
The first question "How do I pay? Where do i get bitcoin?" is common to ransomware as many request payment in cryptocurrency (particularly Bitcoins). Yet the answer stated that victims cannot pay in Bitcoins and must contact the criminals instead. The peculiar thing was the provided email address, which referenced the "Joe mama" meme. This alone would be of no relevance, as some criminals include jokes or insults in their ransom-demanding messages.
The second question "The cactus squad is here" was answered with "Fake, you know that isint real silly!" - such nonsensical statements were littered throughout the note.
This could refer either to the "Cactus Squad" from the Plants vs. Zombies video games, which is described by the game's roleplay Wiki as "a terrorist organization of cacti who plan to destroy/take over Suburbia"; or it could mean the "Cactus Squad" NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens). It could be that the criminals seek these NFTs as payment, but that may be a stretch; hence, we cannot make such claims with certainty.
The third Q&A proclaimed that Arizona's decryption tools are free. The other two queries/responses talked about online Virtual Machines (VMs). Following these, the message returned to Internet references.
The penultimate question was a statement - "Furries are here" - likely referring to the subculture centered on anthropomorphic animals. The answer threatened to use the English singer Rick Astley in defense, evidently referencing the Rickrolling meme.
The last Q&A started by quoting the lyrics of "All Star" a song by the band Smash Mouth - "SOMEBODY ONCE TOLD ME" (which has also gained meme status) and concluded it with "I GOT DECRYPTOR"; the answer was - "No, just no". The conclusion of this extremely odd message was a claim that victims had six days to decrypt their data.
In summary, we are unsure of Arizona ransomware developers' goals. Whether this malware is seeking to profit from ransoms, was released for testing purposes or the cyber criminals' amusement - is unclear. Theoretically, it is possible (yet highly unlikely) that this ransomware detected that we executed in on a VM and displayed a fake note. However, in our experience, such capabilities in malware of this type are exceedingly rare.
Arizona ransomware overview
We have done a substantial amount of research into ransomware infections, and in most cases - decryption is impossible without the cyber criminals' interference. It might be, only if the malware is deeply flawed.
Furthermore, despite meeting the ransom demands - victims frequently do not receive the decryption tools. Paying ransoms is always ill-advised, not just because there are no guarantees that the criminals will hold their end of the bargain but doing so also supports illegal activity. Considering Arizona's ransom note - makes it all the more doubtful that paying could lead to data recovery.
Removing ransomware from the operating system will prevent it from encrypting more files; however, the removal itself will not restore already affected data. The sole solution is recovering the files from a backup (if one is available).
To avoid permanent data loss, we strongly recommend keeping backups in several separate locations (e.g., unplugged storage devices, remote servers, etc.).
Ransomware examples
Asistchinadecryption, ELBOW, KUKANOS, and White Rabbit are just a few examples of the ransomware we have analyzed. It usually operates identically, but there are two major differences in-between these programs - the cryptographic algorithms they use (symmetric or asymmetric) and the ransom size.
How did ransomware infect my computer?
Malware (ransomware included) is proliferated using phishing and social engineering tactics. Email spam campaigns are used in malicious software distribution. These emails can have infectious files (e.g., executables, archives, PDF and Microsoft Office documents, JavaScript, etc.) as attachments or download links. When the files are opened - the infection chain is triggered.
Malware is also spread through untrustworthy download sources, e.g., unofficial and freeware sites, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) sharing networks, etc.
Illegal activation ("cracking") tools and fake updates are used as well. "Cracks" can cause system infections instead of activating licensed products. Fraudulent updaters infect systems by exploiting outdated software and/or by installing malicious programs.
| Name | Arizona virus |
| Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files locker |
| Encrypted Files Extension | .AZ |
| Ransom Demanding Message | README.txt |
| Free Decryptor Available? | No |
| Cyber Criminal Contact | WhoIsJoeMamma1234@protonmail.com |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (IL:Trojan.MSILZilla.5554), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/Filecoder.AGP), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.MSIL.Agent.gen), Microsoft (Ransom:MSIL/FileCoder.AD!MTB), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | Cannot open files stored on your computer, previously functional files now have a different extension (for example, my.docx.locked). A ransom demand message is displayed on your desktop. Cyber criminals demand payment of a ransom (usually in bitcoins) to unlock your files. |
| Additional Information | Arizona ransomware creates a message unlike standard ransom notes. Its message is full of Internet memes and pop culture references, yet excludes clear ransom demands. |
| Distribution methods | Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads. |
| Damage | All files are encrypted and cannot be opened without paying a ransom. Additional password-stealing trojans and malware infections can be installed together with a ransomware infection. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
How to protect yourself from ransomware infections?
Exercising caution is key to computer safety. Therefore, our researchers advise against opening/clicking the attachments and links present in suspect/irrelevant emails - since this content can contain malware.
Additionally, all downloads must be performed from official/verified channels. We also recommend activating and updating programs with functions/tools provided by genuine developers, as those obtained from third-parties can cause system infections.
It is paramount to have a reputable anti-virus installed and updated. This software must be used to run regular system scans and to remove threats and issues. If your computer is already infected with Arizona ransomware, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this malware.
Screenshot of Arizona ransomware's ransom note ("README.txt"):
Text presented in this message:
All of your files have been encrypted
Your computer was infected with The Arizona Ransomware. Your files have been encrypted and you won't be able to decrypt them without my help. Lisen to our FAQ for more information
----FAQ----
Q: How do I pay? Where do i get bitcoin?
A: You cant pay with bitcoin, but you can email us here to unlock your computer,
----> WhoIsJoeMamma1234@protonmail.com
Q: The cactus squad is here
A: Fake, you know that isint real silly!
Q: What is the cost of the decryptor?
A: It's Free, as no Bitcoin is required.
Q: What is CollabVM?
A: Read here ---> hxxps://computernewb.com/wiki/CollabVM
Q: What is UserVM
A: Same as above, only that users like YOU host the VM's
Q: Furries are here
A: I dont care, i have alot of defenses set up such as using rick astley to defeat you! (Go To hxxp://gg.gg/NOU2022 For Free Decryption Program)
Q: SOMEBODY ONCE TOLD ME I GOT DECRYPTOR
A: No, just no
----FAQ END-----
DECRYPT NOW! You Have 6 days to do so!
Screenshot of Arizona ransomware's desktop wallpaper:
Arizona ransomware removal:
Instant automatic malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
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Video suggesting what steps should be taken in case of a ransomware infection:
Quick menu:
- What is Arizona virus?
- STEP 1. Reporting ransomware to authorities.
- STEP 2. Isolating the infected device.
- STEP 3. Identifying the ransomware infection.
- STEP 4. Searching for ransomware decryption tools.
- STEP 5. Restoring files with data recovery tools.
- STEP 6. Creating data backups.
If you are a victim of a ransomware attack we recommend reporting this incident to authorities. By providing information to law enforcement agencies you will help track cybercrime and potentially assist in the prosecution of the attackers. Here's a list of authorities where you should report a ransomware attack. For the complete list of local cybersecurity centers and information on why you should report ransomware attacks, read this article.
List of local authorities where ransomware attacks should be reported (choose one depending on your residence address):
USA - Internet Crime Complaint Centre IC3
United Kingdom - Action Fraud
Spain - Policía Nacional
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Germany - Polizei
Italy - Polizia di Stato
The Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Isolating the infected device:
Some ransomware-type infections are designed to encrypt files within external storage devices, infect them, and even spread throughout the entire local network. For this reason, it is very important to isolate the infected device (computer) as soon as possible.
Step 1: Disconnect from the internet.
The easiest way to disconnect a computer from the internet is to unplug the Ethernet cable from the motherboard, however, some devices are connected via a wireless network and for some users (especially those who are not particularly tech-savvy), disconnecting cables may seem troublesome. Therefore, you can also disconnect the system manually via Control Panel:
Navigate to the "Control Panel", click the search bar in the upper-right corner of the screen, enter "Network and Sharing Center" and select search result: 
Click the "Change adapter settings" option in the upper-left corner of the window: 
Right-click on each connection point and select "Disable". Once disabled, the system will no longer be connected to the internet. To re-enable the connection points, simply right-click again and select "Enable". 
Step 2: Unplug all storage devices.
As mentioned above, ransomware might encrypt data and infiltrate all storage devices that are connected to the computer. For this reason, all external storage devices (flash drives, portable hard drives, etc.) should be disconnected immediately, however, we strongly advise you to eject each device before disconnecting to prevent data corruption:
Navigate to "My Computer", right-click on each connected device, and select "Eject": 
Step 3: Log-out of cloud storage accounts.
Some ransomware-type might be able to hijack software that handles data stored within "the Cloud". Therefore, the data could be corrupted/encrypted. For this reason, you should log-out of all cloud storage accounts within browsers and other related software. You should also consider temporarily uninstalling the cloud-management software until the infection is completely removed.
Identify the ransomware infection:
To properly handle an infection, one must first identify it. Some ransomware infections use ransom-demand messages as an introduction (see the WALDO ransomware text file below).
This, however, is rare. In most cases, ransomware infections deliver more direct messages simply stating that data is encrypted and that victims must pay some sort of ransom. Note that ransomware-type infections typically generate messages with different file names (for example, "_readme.txt", "READ-ME.txt", "DECRYPTION_INSTRUCTIONS.txt", "DECRYPT_FILES.html", etc.). Therefore, using the name of a ransom message may seem like a good way to identify the infection. The problem is that most of these names are generic and some infections use the same names, even though the delivered messages are different and the infections themselves are unrelated. Therefore, using the message filename alone can be ineffective and even lead to permanent data loss (for example, by attempting to decrypt data using tools designed for different ransomware infections, users are likely to end up permanently damaging files and decryption will no longer be possible even with the correct tool).
Another way to identify a ransomware infection is to check the file extension, which is appended to each encrypted file. Ransomware infections are often named by the extensions they append (see files encrypted by Qewe ransomware below).
This method is only effective, however, when the appended extension is unique - many ransomware infections append a generic extension (for example, ".encrypted", ".enc", ".crypted", ".locked", etc.). In these cases, identifying ransomware by its appended extension becomes impossible.
One of the easiest and quickest ways to identify a ransomware infection is to use the ID Ransomware website. This service supports most existing ransomware infections. Victims simply upload a ransom message and/or one encrypted file (we advise you to upload both if possible).
The ransomware will be identified within seconds and you will be provided with various details, such as the name of the malware family to which the infection belongs, whether it is decryptable, and so on.
Example 1 (Qewe [Stop/Djvu] ransomware):
Example 2 (.iso [Phobos] ransomware):
If your data happens to be encrypted by ransomware that is not supported by ID Ransomware, you can always try searching the internet by using certain keywords (for example, a ransom message title, file extension, provided contact emails, crypto wallet addresses, etc.).
Search for ransomware decryption tools:
Encryption algorithms used by most ransomware-type infections are extremely sophisticated and, if the encryption is performed properly, only the developer is capable of restoring data. This is because decryption requires a specific key, which is generated during the encryption. Restoring data without the key is impossible. In most cases, cybercriminals store keys on a remote server, rather than using the infected machine as a host. Dharma (CrySis), Phobos, and other families of high-end ransomware infections are virtually flawless, and thus restoring data encrypted without the developers' involvement is simply impossible. Despite this, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain a number of flaws (for example, the use of identical encryption/decryption keys for each victim, keys stored locally, etc.). Therefore, always check for available decryption tools for any ransomware that infiltrates your computer.
Finding the correct decryption tool on the internet can be very frustrating. For this reason, we recommend that you use the No More Ransom Project and this is where identifying the ransomware infection is useful. The No More Ransom Project website contains a "Decryption Tools" section with a search bar. Enter the name of the identified ransomware, and all available decryptors (if there are any) will be listed.
Restore files with data recovery tools:
Depending on the situation (quality of ransomware infection, type of encryption algorithm used, etc.), restoring data with certain third-party tools might be possible. Therefore, we advise you to use the Recuva tool developed by CCleaner. This tool supports over a thousand data types (graphics, video, audio, documents, etc.) and it is very intuitive (little knowledge is necessary to recover data). In addition, the recovery feature is completely free.
Step 1: Perform a scan.
Run the Recuva application and follow the wizard. You will be prompted with several windows allowing you to choose what file types to look for, which locations should be scanned, etc. All you need to do is select the options you're looking for and start the scan. We advise you to enable the "Deep Scan" before starting, otherwise, the application's scanning capabilities will be restricted.
Wait for Recuva to complete the scan. The scanning duration depends on the volume of files (both in quantity and size) that you are scanning (for example, several hundred gigabytes could take over an hour to scan). Therefore, be patient during the scanning process. We also advise against modifying or deleting existing files, since this might interfere with the scan. If you add additional data (for example, downloading files/content) while scanning, this will prolong the process:
Step 2: Recover data.
Once the process is complete, select the folders/files you wish to restore and simply click "Recover". Note that some free space on your storage drive is necessary to restore data:
Create data backups:
Proper file management and creating backups is essential for data security. Therefore, always be very careful and think ahead.
Partition management: We recommend that you store your data in multiple partitions and avoid storing important files within the partition that contains the entire operating system. If you fall into a situation whereby you cannot boot the system and are forced to format the disk on which the operating system is installed (in most cases, this is where malware infections hide), you will lose all data stored within that drive. This is the advantage of having multiple partitions: if you have the entire storage device assigned to a single partition, you will be forced to delete everything, however, creating multiple partitions and allocating the data properly allows you to prevent such problems. You can easily format a single partition without affecting the others - therefore, one will be cleaned and the others will remain untouched, and your data will be saved. Managing partitions is quite simple and you can find all the necessary information on Microsoft's documentation web page.
Data backups: One of the most reliable backup methods is to use an external storage device and keep it unplugged. Copy your data to an external hard drive, flash (thumb) drive, SSD, HDD, or any other storage device, unplug it and store it in a dry place away from the sun and extreme temperatures. This method is, however, quite inefficient, since data backups and updates need to be made regularly. You can also use a cloud service or remote server. Here, an internet connection is required and there is always the chance of a security breach, although it's a really rare occasion.
We recommend using Microsoft OneDrive for backing up your files. OneDrive lets you store your personal files and data in the cloud, sync files across computers and mobile devices, allowing you to access and edit your files from all of your Windows devices. OneDrive lets you save, share and preview files, access download history, move, delete, and rename files, as well as create new folders, and much more.
You can back up your most important folders and files on your PC (your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders). Some of OneDrive’s more notable features include file versioning, which keeps older versions of files for up to 30 days. OneDrive features a recycling bin in which all of your deleted files are stored for a limited time. Deleted files are not counted as part of the user’s allocation.
The service is built using HTML5 technologies and allows you to upload files up to 300 MB via drag and drop into the web browser or up to 10 GB via the OneDrive desktop application. With OneDrive, you can download entire folders as a single ZIP file with up to 10,000 files, although it can’t exceed 15 GB per single download.
OneDrive comes with 5 GB of free storage out of the box, with an additional 100 GB, 1 TB, and 6 TB storage options available for a subscription-based fee. You can get one of these storage plans by either purchasing additional storage separately or with Office 365 subscription.
Creating a data backup:
The backup process is the same for all file types and folders. Here’s how you can back up your files using Microsoft OneDrive
Step 1: Choose the files/folders you want to backup.
Click the OneDrive cloud icon to open the OneDrive menu. While in this menu, you can customize your file backup settings.
Click Help & Settings and then select Settings from the drop-down menu.
Go to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
In this menu, you can choose to backup the Desktop and all of the files on it, and Documents and Pictures folders, again, with all of the files in them. Click Start backup.
Now, when you add a file or folder in the Desktop and Documents and Pictures folders, they will be automatically backed up on OneDrive.
To add folders and files, not in the locations shown above, you have to add them manually.
Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of the folder/file you want to backup. Select the item, right-click it, and click Copy.
Then, navigate to OneDrive, right-click anywhere in the window and click Paste. Alternatively, you can just drag and drop a file into OneDrive. OneDrive will automatically create a backup of the folder/file.
All of the files added to the OneDrive folder are backed up in the cloud automatically. The green circle with the checkmark in it indicates that the file is available both locally and on OneDrive and that the file version is the same on both. The blue cloud icon indicates that the file has not been synced and is available only on OneDrive. The sync icon indicates that the file is currently syncing.
To access files only located on OneDrive online, go to the Help & Settings drop-down menu and select View online.
Step 2: Restore corrupted files.
OneDrive makes sure that the files stay in sync, so the version of the file on the computer is the same version on the cloud. However, if ransomware has encrypted your files, you can take advantage of OneDrive’s Version history feature that will allow you to restore the file versions prior to encryption.
Microsoft 365 has a ransomware detection feature that notifies you when your OneDrive files have been attacked and guide you through the process of restoring your files. It must be noted, however, that if you don’t have a paid Microsoft 365 subscription, you only get one detection and file recovery for free.
If your OneDrive files get deleted, corrupted, or infected by malware, you can restore your entire OneDrive to a previous state. Here’s how you can restore your entire OneDrive:
1. If you're signed in with a personal account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Options and select Restore your OneDrive.
If you're signed in with a work or school account, click the Settings cog at the top of the page. Then, click Restore your OneDrive.
2. On the Restore your OneDrive page, select a date from the drop-down list. Note that if you're restoring your files after automatic ransomware detection, a restore date will be selected for you.
3. After configuring all of the file restoration options, click Restore to undo all the activities you selected.
The best way to avoid damage from ransomware infections is to maintain regular up-to-date backups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How was my computer hacked and how did hackers encrypt my files?
Ransomware executables are commonly opened by the victims themselves, as they are usually presented as or bundled with ordinary programs/media. This malware is distributed via drive-by (deceptive and stealthy) downloads, spam mail, online scams, unofficial and freeware download websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, illegal software activation tools ("cracks"), fake updaters, etc.
How to open ".AZ" files?
Ransomware-encrypted (".AZ") files necessitate decryption for continued usage. In other words, these files can neither be opened nor otherwise used - unless they are decrypted.
Where should I look for free decryption tools for Arizona ransomware?
If you have experienced a ransomware attack, we recommend checking out the No More Ransom project website (more information above).
I can pay you a lot of money, can you decrypt files for me?
We do not provide services of this type. It is noteworthy that decryption is usually impossible without the cyber criminals' involvement. Hence, third-parties offering paid decryption are likely to be scams or act as middlemen between criminals and victims.
Will Combo Cleaner help me remove Arizona ransomware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your system and eliminate active ransomware infections. However, it must be stressed that while using an anti-virus program is the first step in ransomware recovery - security software is incapable of decrypting files.
Outstanding!
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