The CryptoLite Virus is a test release ransomware targeting users on a global scale. The currently released samples of it are probably test versions that may be updated in further iterations. Refer to our in-depth article for a technical analysis and full removal instructions.
Threat Summary
| Name | CryptoLite |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .encrypted extensions and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss CryptoLite. |
| 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. |
CryptoLite Virus – Distribution Ways
The CryptoLite virus is currently being distributed in a test campaign. It is presumed that in the future the hacker or criminal group behind it will utilize several tactics to increase the number of infected hosts.
One of the main methods that can be used is the creation of email phishing campaigns that use the design elements of legitimate web services and sites in order to confuse the victims into interacting with them. The viruses are either directly attached or linked inthe body contents of the message.
The other method relies on the use of fake download sites that pose as legitimate vendor download sites, portals and other services that are frequently accessed by computer users. These two mechanisms are the primary ways to distributed payload carriers, two are the most popular types:
- Documents — The hackers behind the CryptoLine virus can embed macros scripts in various files (rich text documents, spreadsheets, presentations and databases). When they are opened a notification prompt will appear asking the users to enable the built-in scripts. This leads to the virus infection sequence execution.
- Application Installers — The same technique can be applied to software installers of popular applications. They are made by taking the legitimate installers from the official sites and modifying them to include the CryptoLite virus code.
To further increase the number of infected hosts the criminals may also utilize browser hijackers — they represent malicious plugins that are made available for all popular web browsers. They are usually distributed on the associated browser repositories and make use of fake developer credentials and user reviews to advertise them. Their typical behavior is to redirect the victims to a hacker-controlled site, the additional scripts lead to the virus infection.
CryptoLite Virus – In-Depth Analysis
It appears that the CryptoLite virus is not based on code taken from any of the famous ransomware families. It appears that the hacker or criminal collective behind it have either made it from scratch or have acquired a code that has not yet been identified by the current anti-virus and anti-spyware signatures as belonging to one of the already known families.
The captured samples are currently being analyzed and the available reports so far indicate that they are test releases. It is ery possible that the limited distribution campaign is merely used to plot out future attacks that would carry updated samples. The main malicious engine has been found to use a modular approach, this allows the criminals to customize the attacks depending the targets.
The infections can begin with a data harvesting module programmed to harvest sensitive strings. They can be classified into two main groups:
- Private User Information — The engine can be configured to seaerch for strings that can directly expose the identity of the users: their name, address, phone number, location, interests and account credentials.
- Anonymous Metrics — The other type of information that can be harvested by the engine is used to optimize the attacks. It collects information such as the user-set regional options, a report of all hardware devices and certain operating system values.
This data can be processed by the next component in the sequence which can bypass security software. The list includes anti-virus programs, sandbox (debug) environments and virtual machine hosts. Their real-time engines can be bypassed or completely removed, depending on the instructions by the hackers.
After this has been complete the engine can proceed further with system changes. They can be different according to the defined sequence, however in most cases some kind of a Windows Registry modifications is made. They can be against the user-installed applications or the operating system entries themselves. Such changes can result in the inability to start certain functions and the overall performance may degrade.
The CryptoLite virus can be installed as a persistent threat — it will automatically start once the computer boots. Such behavior also interacts with the boot recovery menu by disabling it. This makes it very difficult to employ most manual removal methods.
In certain cases a separate Trojan instance can be set which connects to a hacker-controlled server. This allows the criminals to spy on the victims, overtake control of their machines and deploy additional threats.
CryptoLite Virus — Encryption
Following the succesful execution of all prior components the ransomware engine will be launched. It uses a built-in list of target file data that is encrypted with a strong cipher. An example list includes the following files:
- Images
- Archives
- Documents
- Backups
- Databases
- Music
- Videos
Instead of a ransomware note it uses a lockscreen instance which prohibits ordinary interaction until the threat is completely removed. It reads the following message:
ALL YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!!!
There’s no way to decrypt these files without the decryption key.
To retrieve the deceryption key a payment of 0.5 BC will need to be paid.
INSTRUCTIONS:
*Purchase the bitcoins from https://localbitcoins.com/.
*Transfer the bitcoins to a https://blockchain.info/ Wallet.
*From https://blockchain.info/ transfer the bitcoins to the below address.
*Add a message to the transaction with the following format:
{MAC-ADDRESS_EMAIL} <- ENSURE THIS IS CORRECT Example: 00:A0:C9:14:C8:29_pwned@gmail.com Following payment the key will be emailed to you after confirmation. IF YOU MESS UP YOUR MESSAGE FROMAT, YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE KEY! BitCoin Address: [1aa5cmqmvQq8YQTEqcTmW7dfBNuFwgdCD] Decryption Key: [***][DECRYPT]
Remove CryptoLite Ransomware Virus and Restore .encrypted Files
If your computer got infected with the CryptoLite ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for CryptoLite with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CryptoLite.
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 CryptoLite 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.
CryptoLite-FAQ
What is CryptoLite Ransomware?
CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite Infect?
Via several ways.CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite 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 .CryptoLite files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CryptoLite 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 .CryptoLite files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CryptoLite" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CryptoLite 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 CryptoLite 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.
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