What Is Cronus Ransomware?
Cronus is a newly identified form of ransomware, discovered during an analysis of samples uploaded to VirusTotal.
According to research reports, Cronus ransomware encrypts files and appends five random characters as new extensions. Also, the virus alters the desktop wallpaper and leaves a ransom note titled “cronus.txt“. The ransom demanded by Cronus cybercriminals is $500 in Bitcoin.
Due to the malicious nature of Cronus ransomware, we recommend using an anti-malware program to detect and remove all virus files. For decryption, you can rely on alternative methods until an official decrytion key is released.
Threat Summary
| Name | Cronus ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files by appending an extension of five random characters. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, System vulnerabilities; Infected torrents; Exposed RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) services |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
Cronus Ransomware – Distribution and Impact
Ransomware like Cronus typically propagates through several common infection vectors. The most probable scenarios include phishing emails with malicious attachments or links, which trick users into downloading the malware. Exploit kits embedded in compromised websites can exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to silently install the ransomware.
In addition, malware-laden advertisements (malvertising) on legitimate sites can redirect users to malicious pages. Network vulnerabilities, such as open RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) ports, can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to systems and deploy ransomware. Finally, removable media like infected USB drives can spread the malware when connected to unprotected computers.
In terms of its impact, the Cronus virus is likely to target the most common user data:
- Documents;
- Databases;
- Multimedia Files;
- Archives;
- Backups;
- Restore Points & System Data.
Due to changes applied to files’ original code, encoded files remain inaccessible until their code is reverted back to its original state. This version of the ransomware appends a different extension on each encrypted file. It adds a string of a few random characters to the names of all encrypted files.
Ransom Note: cronus.txt
Cybercriminals who stand behind Cronus ransomware attacks aim to blackmail victims into paying a ransom fee of $500 in Bitcoin for a decryption tool. Their demands are presented by a ransom note (cronus.txt) which states the following:
Warning, your files are encrypted by Cronus.
This is not a threat, this is a fact:
1. Your files have been encrypted with AES CBC 256 / RSA 2048 algorithm.
2. We have obtained extensive data, including passwords, e-mails and more.
3. We will shoot you and your extended family, pets and friends to death.
4. However, calm down, because you have a month to act on our desires.How do I get spared:
1. Collect $500 in Bitcoin, an untraced anonymous cryptocurrency.
2. Send the specified amount to: 16JpyqQJ6z1GbxJNztjUnepXsqee3SBz75
3. Send the transaction ID to our e-mail: redroomowner@dnmx.org
4. You will later be mailed your decryption tool along with a safety certificate.WARNING:
If you do not pay, you will be put into a darkweb livestream with spectators.
Users can pay to torture you in any way, provided that they pay enough.
Our users CAN and WILL cut your fingers off and kill your pets in front of you!
Encrypted Files
Files encrypted by Cronus ransomware are likely impossible to decrypt without the right decryption software. Money transfers are accepted in Bitcoin only. If you pay the ransom and then start waiting for the decryption software that will unlock your files, you can wait forever. There is never a guarantee that hackers will act as promised. That’s why we recommend that you refrain from transferring money to cybercriminals’ wallets.
The ransom note asserts that files have been encrypted using AES-256-CBC and RSA-2048 encryption algorithms, and that the attackers have obtained personal data, including passwords and emails. It contains menacing threats of violence against the victim and their friends and family, pressuring the victim to comply with the cybercriminals’ demands within a month to avoid dire consequences.
The note instructs the victim to pay $500 in Bitcoin to a specified address and send the transaction ID to redroomowner@dnmx.org. Upon payment, the victim is promised a decryption tool to restore their files.
For the sake of your security, it is advisable to remove Cronus ransomware from the operating system and consider the help of alternative data recovery methods.
Remove Cronus Virus
The so-called Cronus ransomware virus is a threat with highly complex code that heavily damages both essential system settings and valuable data. So, the only way to use your infected system securely again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For this purpose, you could follow our step-by-step removal guide.
In the event that you want to attempt to restore encrypted files with the help of alternative data recovery methods, check step four – Try to Restore files encrypted by Cronus virus. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Cronus ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Cronus ransomware and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Cronus ransomware on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Cronus ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Cronus ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Cronus ransomware.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Cronus ransomware aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Cronus ransomware-FAQ
What is Cronus ransomware Ransomware?
Cronus ransomware is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Cronus ransomware Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Cronus ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Cronus ransomware Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Cronus ransomware is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Cronus ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Cronus ransomware files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Cronus ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Cronus ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Cronus ransomware files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Cronus ransomware Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Cronus ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Cronus ransomware files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Cronus ransomware Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Cronus ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Cronus ransomware how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Cronus ransomware ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.