KOZANOSTRA Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

Introduction

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and ransomware continues to top the list of digital hazards. One of the more recent and formidable threats is the KOZANOSTRA ransomware, a variant of the Mimic/N3ww4v3 ransomware family. This malicious software encrypts user files and appends a unique extension while dropping a ransom note demanding payment for decryption.

This guide offers an exhaustive look into KOZANOSTRA ransomware—its behavior, how it spreads, the impact it causes, and how to recover from an attack.

Related article: Zen Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

Overview of KOZANOSTRA Ransomware

KOZANOSTRA is a ransomware strain that encrypts files using strong encryption and renames them with a unique victim-specific extension. For example:

original_file.docx → original_file.docx.KOZANOSTRA–[UniqueID]

A ransom note titled #RECOVERY_FILES#.txt is dropped in directories containing encrypted files. This note instructs victims to contact the attackers via email or Telegram for decryption instructions.

Also read: RedFox Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

Key Characteristics

• File Extension: .KOZANOSTRA–[VictimID]
  
• Ransom Note: #RECOVERY_FILES#.txt
  
• Associated Family: Mimic / N3ww4v3
  
• Contact Methods:
  
  • Email: [email protected]
    
  • Telegram: @DataSupport911
    

Infection Vectors

Like other ransomware, KOZANOSTRA can infect systems via several attack vectors:

• Phishing Emails: Malicious attachments or links initiate the ransomware.
  
• Exploit Kits: Vulnerabilities in outdated software are used to deploy the malware.
  
• Malvertising: Compromised ads redirect users to malware-laden downloads.
  
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Exploits: Brute-force RDP attacks can enable unauthorized access.

Technical Behavior

Once executed, KOZANOSTRA ransomware takes the following actions:

1. File Scanning: Searches local and network drives for targeted file types.
   
2. Encryption: Encrypts data using advanced cryptographic methods.
   
3. Renaming Files: Appends the .KOZANOSTRA–[VictimID] extension.
   
4. Drops Ransom Note: #RECOVERY_FILES#.txt with payment and contact info.
   
5. Persistence Mechanisms: Modifies system settings to survive reboots.
   
6. Optional Data Exfiltration: Some variants claim to steal sensitive information.
   

Ransom Note Content

Example from #RECOVERY_FILES#.txt:

Hello my dear friend

Your data is encrypted by KOZANOSTRA

Your decryption ID is -hXxwXxgQFFgRjMGPGeHUYopAcKOo-Z0rUuXSvkCMRM

Do not scan files with antivirus. 

Contact us:

Email – [email protected]

Telegram – @DataSupport911

Detection and Removal

Security vendors may detect KOZANOSTRA under the broader Mimic or N3ww4v3 families. Detection names may include:

• Emsisoft: Trojan-Ransom.Mimic
  
• Microsoft Defender: Trojan:Win32/Ransom.Mimic
  
• Kaspersky: HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.MSIL.Agent.gen
  

Recommended Steps:

1. Disconnect from the internet immediately.
   
2. Run a full antivirus/malware scan using trusted tools.
   
3. Check for lingering processes or persistence via Autoruns or Task Manager.
   

Data Recovery and Decryption

Current Decryption Status

As of now, there is no free public decryptor available for KOZANOSTRA ransomware. Paying the ransom is not recommended, as it does not guarantee file recovery and supports criminal activity.

Recommended Recovery Actions

• Restore from Backups: If available, restore files from clean offline or cloud backups.
  
• Consult Security Experts: Cybersecurity firms may offer specialized recovery services.
  
• Use File Recovery Tools: Sometimes fragments can be salvaged using forensic tools.
  

Prevention Strategies

Cybersecurity Best Practices:

• 🔒 Keep Regular Backups: Offline or cloud-based backups should be maintained.
  
• 🛡️ Patch and Update: Regularly update OS and third-party applications.
  
• 📧 Email Hygiene: Avoid opening unsolicited attachments or links.
  
• 🔐 Use Strong Passwords and MFA: Especially for remote access protocols like RDP.
  
• 🧠 User Awareness Training: Educate users about phishing and suspicious behaviors.
  

What To Do If You’re Infected?

1. Do NOT pay the ransom.
   
2. Isolate the infected system to prevent spread.
   
3. Check backups and restore if possible.
   
4. Seek expert help through cybersecurity firms or forums like BleepingComputer.
   

Can KOZANOSTRA Files Be Decrypted?

At this time, files encrypted by KOZANOSTRA are not decryptable without the attacker’s key. However, keep an eye on:

• NoMoreRansom.org: A trusted source for decryptors.
  
• BleepingComputer Forums: Active threads for Mimic/N3ww4v3 ransomware updates.
  
• Security Bulletins: Vendors occasionally release decryptors for older variants.
  

Recovering Files Encrypted by KOZANOSTRA Ransomware: Can Our Decryptor Help?

If your system has been infected by KOZANOSTRA ransomware, you’re likely dealing with the serious consequences of a targeted attack—your critical files are now encrypted, and the attackers are demanding payment for a decryption key. Fortunately, our proprietary Phobos Decryptor tool offers a robust, safe, and effective way to recover your files without succumbing to ransom demands.

Whether your data resides on personal systems, corporate servers, or NAS devices such as QNAP—compromised through credential reuse or network exposure—our decryptor is built to tackle these complex file recovery scenarios with precision.

How Our Phobos Decryptor Can Help You Restore Your Files?

The Phobos Decryptor has been developed specifically to combat KOZANOSTRA ransomware. It provides a reliable and secure recovery process, enabling users to regain access to encrypted data efficiently—no need to negotiate with criminals or risk further data loss.

This includes file restoration from QNAP backups and NAS volumes encrypted via attacks exploiting SMB protocols or shared administrative credentials.

Why Our Phobos Decryptor Is the Right Solution for KOZANOSTRA Recovery?

• Engineered for KOZANOSTRA Ransomware
  Our decryptor is customized to reverse the encryption patterns associated with the .KOZANOSTRA–[UniqueID] extension.
  
• User-Friendly and Efficient
  Designed for ease of use, the interface is intuitive and requires no advanced technical skills to operate.
  
• Preserves File Integrity
  Unlike generic or unreliable decryptors, our tool maintains your original file structures and data quality throughout the recovery process.
  

Even in situations where a NAS system—such as QNAP—was affected and suffered volume-level encryption, our tool can help retrieve and decrypt accessible files, provided the hardware remains intact.

Step-by-Step: Using Our Phobos Decryptor for KOZANOSTRA-Infected Files

Step 1: Obtain the Decryptor Securely
Contact to purchase the Phobos Decryptor. Instant access is granted upon successful transaction.

Step 2: Run as Administrator
Launch the tool on the infected machine with administrative privileges and ensure a stable internet connection.

Step 3: Establish a Secure Connection
The tool will connect to our secure servers to generate decryption keys tailored specifically to your infection profile.

Step 4: Input Your Victim ID
You can find your unique Victim ID in the ransom note dropped by KOZANOSTRA ransomware. Enter this when prompted.

Step 5: Begin Decryption
Click the “Decrypt” button to initiate the process. Your encrypted files will be restored to their original, usable state.

Also read: WStop Ransomware Decryption and Removal Using Phobos Decryptor

Why Choose Our Phobos Decryptor Over Other Recovery Options?

• Proven Performance Against KOZANOSTRA Ransomware
  Extensively tested, the decryptor consistently delivers successful file recovery results for this ransomware variant.
  
• Data-Safe Process
  Your file content and structure remain untouched—no risk of corruption or loss during decryption.
  
• Professional Support Available
  Our cybersecurity specialists are ready to assist you remotely at every stage of the recovery process.
  
• No Ransom Required
  Avoid the risks of dealing with criminals. Our decryptor gives you a legal, reliable, and secure way to restore your files.
  

From single workstations to enterprise-level servers and NAS systems, the Phobos Decryptor is versatile enough to support diverse recovery environments. It minimizes downtime and helps you restore operations swiftly.

Don’t Let KOZANOSTRA Ransomware Hold You Hostage—Act Now

The KOZANOSTRA ransomware is a severe threat, but you don’t have to give in. With the Phobos Decryptor, you can regain control, restore your data, and avoid making any payments to the attackers.

Conclusion

The KOZANOSTRA ransomware is a severe threat that underscores the need for proactive cybersecurity defenses. With no current decryption solution, your best bet is prevention and reliable backups. Organizations and individuals alike must remain vigilant, adopt layered security, and stay informed on emerging threats.

FAQs

What does the KOZANOSTRA file extension look like?

It appears as .KOZANOSTRA–[UniqueID], appended to the original filename.

Is KOZANOSTRA related to any other ransomware?

Yes, it is a variant of the Mimic / N3ww4v3 ransomware family.

Can files be recovered without paying the ransom?

Sometimes. If you have backups or the ransomware is analyzed and a decryptor becomes available.

What should I do immediately after infection?

Disconnect the device from networks and power, run antivirus scans, and seek professional support.