Hackers have created a new strain of the RotorCrypt virus which encrypts user data with the .AlfaBlock extension. The ongoing attack uses several methods to spread the ransomware and users all around the world are targeted.Our article provides an overview of the virus operations and it also may be helpful in attempting to remove the virus.
Threat Summary
| Name | RotorCrypt virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .AlfaBlock extension 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 RotorCrypt 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. |
RotorCrypt virus – Distribution Ways
RotorCrypt virus samples can be distributed using various techniques. Commonly the hackers behind the active campaign will utilize several different mechanisms at once in order to increase the number of affected files.
A popular technique is the creation and coordination of SPAM email messages containing social engineering elements. They coerce the victims into retrieving and interacting with the malicious files or scripts that lead to the RotorCrypt virus infection.
The other similar method is to design fake web sites that feature hijacked elements and may utilize similar sounding domain names to the legitimate portals. These two methods are among the main tactics for spreading infected payloads. There are two main types which are most commonly used to distribute ransomware:
- Documents — RotorCrypt virus samples can be distributed via scripts that are embedded in document files of various types: spreadsheets, presentations, rich text files or databases. When they are opened by the victim users a notification prompt will appear asking them to enable the built-in content. This will trigger a payload download action that will retrieve the virus sample from a remote server and start its execution.
- Application Installers — The criminals can also embed the dangerous threats in fake installers of popular software. They can range from system utilities to productivity apps and well-known creativity suites. Most commonly they are made by taking the legitimate files from the official vendor download sites and modifying them with the virus code.
Other distribution tactics make use of malicious scripts that may have different forms: pop-ups, banners, redirects, hyperlinks and etc. The RotorCrypt infected files can be spread over file sharing networks as requested. A popular choice is BitTorrent which is a channel for spreading both illegal and pirate content. In many cases when downloading movies, programs or other assets from such trackers virus infections can follow.
Advanced infections can utilize browser hijackers, they represent malicious plugins made for the most popular web browsers. The ready-made samples are uploaded to the relevant plugin repositories using fake developer credentials and user reviews. They are called “hijackers” because of their ability to modify the web browser settings. Their end goal is to redirect the users to a hacker-controlled site by modifying the default home page, search engine and new tabs page. Once this is done the virus file will be downloaded and the infection will be triggered.
RotorCrypt virus – In-Depth Analysis
The RotorCrypt virus and its ransomware family as a whole is well-known for having a modular base. Threats belonging to it can be adapted to each individual attack campaign. We anticipate that the ongoing infiltration attempts will result in the execution of a common behavior pattern.
The infections can begin with a data harvesting component that can hijack information that can be of interest to the operators. One of the groups of data includes user information which can expose the victims identity. This is done by programming the associated engine into retrieving values such as the following: the users name, address, phone number, interests, location and any stored account credentials. The other group of data that can be harvested by the RotorCrypt data harvesting module is related to campaign metrics. This includes user settings, operating system values and a report on the installed hardware components.
Following this the extracted strings can be used to scan for the presence of applications or services that can block the virus or remove it. The stealth protection evades this process by scanning for anti-virus programs, sandbox environments and virtual machine hosts and blocks their engines. In certain cases it can even delete them completely. When this action is complete the RotorCrypt virus will have unlimited access to hook up to any system process, elevate its privileges and conduct other malicious actions.
If configured so the engine can proceed with Windows Registry changes. They can lower overall performance and stop certain functions from working properly. This step is also connected with another malicious action called persistent installation. It installs the RotorCrypt virus in such a way that it will automatically start every time the computer is powered on. During RotorCrypt’s startup other services and applications may be blocked from starting and in most cases this will also make it impossible to enter into the recovery menu. The consequences of this is that the victim users will not be able to follow most manual removal instructions. In these cases the only way to effectively restore the computers is to resort to a professional-grade anti-spyware solution.
Some Rotorcrypt virus samples can be configured into deleting System Restore and Shadow Volume Copies data. Effective restore of the affected files can be done with a specialist utility, refer to our instructions for more information.
Advanced copies can lead to a Trojan module installation — the infected hosts will connect to a hacker-controlled server. By using a secure connection the controllers can take over control of the infected hosts, spy on the users and deploy additional threats.
RotorCrypt virus — Encryption
Like the previous attacks the ongoing RotorCrypt virus campaigns use the classic scheme of processing target data via a built-in list of target file type extensions. An example one can include any of the following:
- Archives
- Backups
- Documents
- Images
- Videos
- Music
Once the victim are encrypted with a strong algorithm they will be renamed with the .AlfaBlock extension. The captured samples indicate that a long name extension has been used: “!@#$_(decryp in the EMail)____nautilus369alarm@gmail.com____$#@..AlfaBlock”. This shows that the ransomware operators are placing their contact email address in more than one location. Classic ransomware places an elaborate message in the accompanying ransomware note. The fact that this RotorCrypt virus is infecting files with explicit contact email shows that alternative measures can also be taken.
Remove RotorCrypt Ransomware Virus and Restore .AlfaBlock Files
If your computer got infected with the RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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.
RotorCrypt virus-FAQ
What is RotorCrypt virus Ransomware?
RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt virus Infect?
Via several ways.RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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 .RotorCrypt virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .RotorCrypt 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 .RotorCrypt virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".RotorCrypt virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this RotorCrypt 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 RotorCrypt 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.
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