If your files have a .crptrgr extension added to them, the reason for that is CryptoRoger – a modern ransomware also known as a crypto-virus. What it does is it infects users via spam campaigns of malicious URLs or files. After infection, the virus uses a strong cipher called Advanced Encryption Standard which is 256 bits in strength to scramble the files of its victims and extort them for 0.5 bitcoins (~300 USD) for the restoration of access to their files.
We strongly advise you NOT to pay any ransom money to cyber-criminals and instead attempt other methods to revert the files encrypted by them after removing this virus using the instructions in this article.
Threat Summary
Name | CryptoRoger |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The virus encrypts files with the AES-256 algorithm and asks a ransom of 0.5 BitCoins for decryption. |
Symptoms | Files are encrypted and become inaccessible. A .crptrgr file extension is added. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a .html file. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Locky Ransomware. |
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. |
CryptoRoger Ransomware – Infection Strategy
To infect the maximum amount of users possible, CryptoRoger uses a .vbs script which automatically runs. This script may be downloaded onto the victim’s computer via several different methods:
- Drive-by downloads.
- Via Exploit Kits.
- By using a malicious .js (JavaScript).
- Via being directly attached to spam e-mail messages.
Users complain in security forums that they might have been infected by clicking on malicious e-mail messages, which they believed were legitimate.
CryptoRoger Ransomware Virus – Detailed Analysis
Once it has been dropped on your computer, CryptoRoger contains the following malicious files, located in various Windows directories:
- %AppData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\x.vbs
- %AppData%\bg.jpeg
- %AppData%\files.txt
- %AppData%\keys.dat
- %UserProfile%\CryptoRoger\{CryptoRoger’s primary executive}.exe
After dropping the files, CryptoRoger starts modifying heavily the Windows Registry Editor, by creating a key named “CryptoRoger” along with several different values in them:
- HKCU\Software\CryptoRoger\
- HKCU\Software\CryptoRoger\AESFORUPRIVATE
- HKCU\Software\CryptoRoger\UPRIV
If the file encryption VBS script is activated, CryptoRoger begins encrypting user files. It may encrypt all file extensions associated with:
- Videos.
- Audio files.
- Databases.
- Documents.
- Pictures.
- Virtual Machines.
The ransomware excludes executable files which may damage Windows OS so it can leave it intact. After encryption, the ransomware drops an HTML file on %Desktop% leading to a web link with ransom instructions, which are the following:
Files on your PC have been securely encrypted
Do not worry there is a solution
The cost of decrypting files – 0.5 Bitcoin (~$360)
(but if you will not behave professionally price may increase several times.)
To get the Bitcoin address for payment write me at uTox.
You can FREE decrypt one file, send it to me in uTox
All that you need to contact me using a uTox messenger and finding me on ID:
F12CCE864152DA1421CE717710EC61A8BEC74A71….
Manual for contact:
-download messenger uTox at the link DOWNLOAD
-extract utox.exe from zip archive and run utox.exe
-Enter ID in the field “Search/Add Friends” and click + in the uTox window
-Enter a message “Decrypt files” and click Add
-expect an answer
Important! Your uTox needs to be constantly online to the message was received!
Information for decrypting:
Send me file keys.dat when he needed. The file is required for decrypting.”
Regarding encryption, the encrypted files are no longer accessible and the file extension .crptrgr added to them, for example:
- Filename.pptx.crptrgr
The code for the files used for encryption is considered to be AES-256 – one of the strongest in the world at present times and direct decryption would theoretically take years on a powerful device.
CryptoRoger – Conclusion, Removal, and File Restoration Attempt
In brief, this ransomware is not here to fool around and leaves the user no option but to pay the ransom money. However, security experts strongly advise against it because for one there is no guarantee you will get your files back and for other, you fund cyber-criminal operations.
To remove CryptoRoger completely, we strongly advise you to follow the instructions below. If you want maximum effectiveness, an excellent tool to help you is an advanced anti-malware program which will automatically detect the malicious files and registry entries associated with this virus and remove them.
To try and restore your files, we strongly advise attempting other alternative solutions from a safe PC, like the ones we have suggested in step 3 – “Restore files encrypted by CryptoRoger” below. They are not 100% effective but if you have a backup set up and have recently modified the files you may restore some of them for free.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for CryptoRoger with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CryptoRoger 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 CryptoRoger
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CryptoRoger.
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 CryptoRoger 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.
CryptoRoger-FAQ
What is CryptoRoger Ransomware?
CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger Infect?
Via several ways.CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger 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 .CryptoRoger files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CryptoRoger 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 .CryptoRoger files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CryptoRoger" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CryptoRoger 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 CryptoRoger 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.
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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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