This article has been created in order to help you by showing you how to remove the .dcrtr files virus and how to restore files encrypted by this ransomware infection on your computer system.
A ransomware virus has been detected to encrypt the files on victims’ computers, appending the .dcrtr file extension to the encoded files. The malware aims to use advanced encryption which it appends on the files, making them to seem corrupt. The end goal is for the virus to get victims to open the ReadMe_Decryptor.txt file which has ransom instructions that give the victim information how to make a ransom payoff in BitCoin after negotiating with the cyber-criminals for the ransom amount. In case your computer has been infected by the .dcrtr files virus, recommendations are to focus on removing it from your computer and restoring encrypted files, preferrably by following the information within this article.
Threat Summary
| Name | .dcrtr Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on the victim’s computer and then extort victims to pay in BitCoin in order to be able to use their files again. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encrypted with added “.[decryptor@cock.li].dcrtr” suffix to them and a ransom note, named “ReadMe_Decryptor.txt” also appears. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .dcrtr Files Virus. |
| 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. |
.dcrtr files virus – How Does It Infect
The primary methods of infection that are being used to propagate this ransomware are both passive and active methods. If passive, the cyber-criminals are more lazy and may upload the files on torrent websites or suspicious software sites with high ranking in order to “fish” for potential victims. The files are carefully masked as:
- The drivers or the setup of programs you may be looking to download.
- Fake software license activators.
- Fake game or program patches.
- Fake cracks or key generators for software or games.
In addition to using this method, the cyber-criminals may also spread the virus actively by taking the job to manually send e-mails to a pre-configured lists of victims’ e-mail addresses. Such lists they usually purchase on the dark net, where organizations or hackers may steal personal information and sell it for their own profits. The e-mails which may be sent may contain your name, and they may pretend to come from reputable companies, from the likes of PayPal, eBay, FedEx or other big companies. They usually mask a malicious e-mail attachment which is then used as a legitimate document, for instance:
- Invoice.
- Activation code file.
- Receipt for an order.
- Banking information of importance.
Since the virus may also use malicious e-mail web links which may carry JavaScript code that may cause an automatic download and execution of files, it is also a possibility of infection with the .dcrtr ransomware virus. If we had to explain it with graphics, here is how the infection process would appear like as a chain of consequential activities:
.dcrtr Files Virus – Maliciious Activity
As soon as the .dcrtr files ransomware has infected the victim’s computer, the malware may perform series of unwanted activties on the victim’s computer, which may result in the virus receiving administrative privileges to read and write files on your computer. Then, the malware may connect to a C&C server from which the malicious files of .dcrtr ransomware may be dropped on the victim’s computer. They may reside in the following Windows directories:
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
- %Temp%
In addition to this, the ransomware virus may also modify the following Windows registry sub-keys:
→ 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
The .dcrtr files ransomware may create registry entries in those sub keys with data which points to the actual location of the malicious files which are being executed. This may result in the malware running automatically when you start Windows.
Furhtemore, the .dcrtr files ransomware may also perform other activities on the victim’s computer, such as delete the shadow volume copies and backups by executing a script that may run the following commands as an administrator in Windows Command Prompt without you even noticing it:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c
vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no
bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
After these commands are ran, the .dcrtr files virus may also perform other activities on the victim’s computer, such as set it’s ransom note, named ReadMe_Decryptor.txt to be automatically displayed and show the following message:
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail decryptor@cock.li
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails: masterdecrypt@openmailbox.orgYou have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 5 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 10Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
https://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
.dcrtr Files Virus – File Encryption
The encryption process of this ransomware begins by it starting to scan for the file types it has been pre-configured to encrypt. Such files are documents, video files, music files, pictures and other types of files. In addition to this, the malware may scan for files based on their file extensions and the most commonly used ones are often the target.
The encryption process results in the files being appended the {LAMA} file marker at the end of their HEX and they also carry the .[decryptor@cock.li].dcrtr file suffix which has the e-mail for contacting the cyber-criminals:
Remove .dcrtr Ransomware and Restore Encrypted Files
In order to get rid of this ransomware infection, recommendations are to focus on removing it by following the removal instructions down below. They are specifically divided in manual and automatic removal methods and if you lack the experience in removing ransomware viruses, like the .dcrtr files virus, experts strongly advise to perform the removal process automatically, by downloading an advanced anti-malware software. Such software will help you to remove this infection by scanning for it’s malicious objects and fully secure your computer against future infections as well.
In addition to removing this malware, if you want to try and restore as many files as you can, we recommend that you try the file recovery instructions in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by .dcrtr Files Virus” down below. They may not be 100% effective, but may help you in recovering as many encrypted files as possible.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for .dcrtr Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .dcrtr Files Virus.
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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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.
.dcrtr Files Virus-FAQ
What is .dcrtr Files Virus Ransomware?
.dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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 ..dcrtr Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..dcrtr Files Virus 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 ..dcrtr Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..dcrtr Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .dcrtr Files Virus 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 .dcrtr Files Virus 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.