The Avast SZFLocker Decryption Tool is a free utility designed to recover files compromised by the SZFLocker ransomware, which targets Windows systems and appends the .szf extension to infected files.
Because Avast and AVG are part of the same company, you can download this application safely from either the Avast Ransomware Decryption Tools Hub or the AVG Ransomware Decryption Tools Page. Prerequisites Before Decrypting
Isolate the System: Unplug your PC from Wi-Fi and network cables immediately to prevent the virus from spreading.
Remove Active Malware: Run a complete antivirus scan using an updated security program to ensure the active ransomware payload is deleted. If the virus is still running, it may re-encrypt your data.
Back Up Encrypted Files: Copy your .szf files to an external flash drive. If a file corrupts during the decryption process, you will still have the original locked copy. Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Tool
Download the File: Download the specific SZFLocker executable file (avast_decryptor_szflocker.exe) onto a clean, secondary computer if possible, and transfer it over via USB.
Run as Administrator: Right-click the .exe file on your infected PC and select Run as Administrator. Click Run anyway if Windows Defender SmartScreen popups block the launch.
Accept the Welcome Screen: Click Next on the initial greeting page and accept the license terms.
Select File Locations: Choose the hard drives or specific folders you want the utility to scan for .szf extensions. By default, local drives are selected. Click Next.
Provide File Pairs (If Prompted): The wizard may require a “known plaintext attack” to calculate the key. If requested, provide one encrypted file (e.g., photo.jpg.szf) and its unencrypted original version (pulled from an old email, cloud backup, or default Windows folder).
Start the Process: Keep the Backup encrypted files option checked as a fallback measure. Click Decrypt and leave your computer running until the progress bar completes.
If you encounter any glitches or error codes while running the utility, you can email your diagnostics directly to the developers at [email protected].
If you are stuck on a specific phase, feel free to share what screen you are seeing, if the original malware has been completely deleted, or if you have original file backups available to help crack the key. Avast Ransomware Decryption Tools: How to Guide
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