One of the most devastating file-encryption viruses – CryptXXX has released a new variant, that has been dubbed “Microsoft Decryptor”. The virus includes a link to a new web page and a fresh new ransom note. Another development of this virus is that it does not make any changes to the appearance of the encrypted files, meaning that it does not change their names or add custom file extensions, unlike the previous versions.
CryptXXX Uses Neutrino Exploit Kit
A Neutrino Exploit Kit detection has been analyzed by the researcher at SANS Internet Storm Center Brian Duncan to directly drop CryptXXX Ransomware’s files on infected computers. The Neutrino EK’s attack was done via injecting a malicious script from a compromised website, reportedly associated with the “pseudoDarkleech” malware campaign.
The researcher managed to find the IP address of the host injecting the Exploit Kit on the compromised computer to be 198.71.54.211.
In addition to that, it was also discovered that after the computer has been infected with the CryptXXX latest variant, the traffic let to the following host – 91.220.131.147.
The Neutrino Kit (Former Angler EK which is now dead) first sends a so-called Flash Exploit which is common in Zero-Day attacks, meaning that this script may take advantage of older versions of software components of Windows to infect the computer. One of those components may be an old version of Flash Player, for example.
After this has been done, the Exploit Kid initiates the actual payload dropping process, by executing another script and dropping the files and the ransom note of the virus from a remote host.
CryptXXX and Ransomware In General – Summary, More Information and Guidance
CryptXXX is a virus which has dealt a lot of damage to users and by some is even considered the leader regarding damage amongst other ransomware viruses. Not only this, but the virus has also featured previous versions that have broken decryptors. This was devastating for some users because their chances to decrypt CryptXXX encoded files significantly dropped down.
Here is related information about the previous versions of CryptXXX Ransomware which have been analyzed:
Remove CryptXXX Ransomware and Restore .crypt Encrypted Files
Remove CryptXXX 2.0 Ransomware and Restore .crypt Encrypted
Remove CryptXXX 3.0 Ransomware and Restore .Crypt Encrypted Files
CryptXXX Version 3.100 Updated With StillerX InfoStealer
Remove Cryp1 (UltraCrypter) Ransomware and Restore .Cryp1 Files
After the whole CryptXXX menace became huge, malware researchers all over the world united and stroke back, creating several working decryptors for the many variants of CryptXXX:
Cryp1 Decrypter – by Trend Micro
Rannoh Decryptor for CryptXXX’s 1st Version – by Kaspersky
Decrypting RSA Encrypted Files Using Factorization and Python – by various malware researchers
Users can also find instruction videos online to help them try decryption and successfully remove CryptXXX Ransomware which should be done swiftly:
The bottom line for Ransomware viruses like CryptXXX, in general, is that during the year 2016 it is experiencing a “boom” since more and more viruses come out. And due to the huge variety of viruses, variants and number of cyber-criminals, the job for the law to catch them is very challenging. What is even worse is that the Deep Web offers ransomware for prices that may range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. There is even a Hidden Tear project which is open source and with enough skill anyone can create a Ransomware virus for free. This is very dangerous, and we strongly advise users to increase the protection of their files.
This has concerned us as both users and researchers in this field, and this is why we have decided to see how users store their data and hopefully give tips on how to stay safe from the dynamic environment of the evolved 21st-century criminals.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for CryptXXX with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CryptXXX.
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 CryptXXX 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.
CryptXXX-FAQ
What is CryptXXX Ransomware?
CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX Infect?
Via several ways.CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 .CryptXXX files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CryptXXX 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 .CryptXXX files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CryptXXX" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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.
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