This article aims to help you by showing how to remove the new NOOBCRYPT ransomware infection from your computer and how to restore .su encrypted files.
A new version of the well known NOOBCRYPT ransomware which was previously unlocked has reappeared. The ransomware virus, this time claims to use the RSA-2048 and AES-128 encryption algorithms in order to encrypt the files on the computers which have become it’s unfortunate victims. The virus also changes the wallpaper of the victimized computer to a ransom note wallpaper which threatens victims to pay in 24 hours or else their important documents, photos, audio and other files are likely to be deleted.
Threat Summary
| Name | NOOBCRYPT |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts the files on your computer and gives you 24 hours to pay $100 or else it claims to destroy your files. |
| Symptoms | Adds a lockscreen with a ransom note and the files may no longer be openable. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss NOOBCRYPT. |
| 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. |
NOOBCRYPT Ransomware – How Does It Infect
The infection process of this ransomware virus is conducted in a very similar way to most ransomware viruses. The primary method which it uses is called malspam. It is essentially when the cyber-criminals mask a malicious executable or a web link as a legitimate one that poses as a document or another legitimate file. This process tricks the victim that the attachment is an invoice, a receipt or any other type of file that only seems legitimate. The messages are accompanied by big company names, to increase their legitimacy, like:
- PayPal.
- FedEx.
- DHL.
- UPS.
Most e-mail attachments may be executable files or JavaScript files, but the cases with Microsoft Word documents with malicious macros are increasing. This method of infection is particularly interesting because the legitimate document only becomes malicious when you click on the “Enable Content” button which enables macros, similar to what the graphic below displays:
Other methods of infection may also include the usage of fake setups of free programs you may search for download online. In addition to this, other types of patches, game cracks or others may be used as a pretext to infect a computer with NOOBCRYPT.
NOOBCRYPT Ransomware – More Information
The NOOBCRYPT ransomware is believed to be coded in .NET and it may have multiple different errors, just like the previous version.
Once infected your computer, NOOBCRYPT ransomware may begin to create the a completely random named sub-key in the Windows Registry Editor. The key it targets is the HKEY_CURRENT_USER key. In the random sub-key within it, there are values that are created with random names.
Another action this virus performs is to change the wallpaper of the infected computer with a threatening one that has the following message to victims:
NOOBCRYPT
YOU HAVE BEEN CRYPTED!
Your files has been crypted!
All of your files are encrypted with RSA-2048 and AES- 128 ciphers-
More information about the RSA and AES can be found here:
Decrypting of your files is only possible with the private key and decrypt program which is on our secret server.
Time left to pay (if you don’t pay, all your files will be PERMANENTLY deleted!)
23 Hours | 59 Minutes | 50 Seconds
REFRESH TO SEE YOUR TIMER!
In order to receive your files back, you have to pay a RANSOM and get a LICENSE which you will use in our DECRYPTOR to get your files back!
Please Transfer 0.03615 BTC (100$) to:
{cyber-criminals address}
Waiting for payment, current status: Not Paid
Your License will appear here once paid: (hidden)
This ransom note is reported not only to change the wallpaper, but the new wallpaper to be a direct lockscreen as well, denying any access to the computer.
The virus is not reported to tamper with any Run and RunOnce registry sub-keys or mess with the shadow volume copies of the infected computer, so it is possible that files could be recovered if you have enabled shadow volume copies and manage to bypass the lockscreen.
NOOBCRYPT Ransomware – Encryption Process
For the encryption process, this ransomware virus may use AES-128 bit encryption algorithm in order to render the files no longer openable. After the files are encrypted, the virus generates symmetric decryption key which may be further encrypted via the RSA-2048 encryption algorithm. After this process has finished, the virus may leave the files unopenable, possibly with the .su file extension.
NOOBCRYPT is very specific when it encrypts user files. It is very careful to skip important Windows files and aims to encrypt files which are often opened, such as:
- Videos.
- Documents.
- Music.
- Audio Files.
- Archives.
- Virtual Drives.
After the encryption process, the malware threatens to delete files in 24 hours if a ransom of around $100 is not paid.
Remove NOOBCRYPT Ransomware from Your PC and Restore Encrypted Files
For the removal process of NOOBCRYPT ransomware, we advise you to follow the removal instructions below. They are specifically designed to help you delete the malware either manually or automatically. Since manual removal may present some difficulties as well as risks, the NOOBCRYPT ransomware virus should be removed automatically for maximum safety. The best method according to security experts is to use an advanced anti-malware program which will take care of the removal process for you.
If you want to restore files that have been encrypted by this ransomware virus, we recommend you to check the alternative methods in step “3. Restore files encrypted by NOOBCRYPT”.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for NOOBCRYPT with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by NOOBCRYPT.
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 NOOBCRYPT 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.
NOOBCRYPT-FAQ
What is NOOBCRYPT Ransomware?
NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT Infect?
Via several ways.NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT 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 .NOOBCRYPT files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .NOOBCRYPT 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 .NOOBCRYPT files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".NOOBCRYPT" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this NOOBCRYPT 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 NOOBCRYPT 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.