This article will aid you remove RotorCrypt Ransomware effectively. Follow the removal instructions at the end.
Security reports indicate a new release of the RotorCrypt ransomware family encrypting target data with the .!@#$%^&-()_+.1C extension. Like previous versions it has an extensive list of modules that are launched, they impact every single area of the operating system. Depending on their configuration they can also lead to the installation of other threats — viruses, ransomware, miners and Trojans. Our guide explains how computer users can spot the infections and attempt to remove them.
Threat Summary
| Name | RotorCrypt Virus |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer and displays a ransom message afterward. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and put the extension !@#$%^&-()_+.1C to them after it finishes its encryption process. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| 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 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 Ransomware – Distribution
The RotorCrypt ransomware can be distributed using the most common methods used by hackers to distribute malware threats to victims. One of the common mechanisms is the coordination of email phishing campaigns. They are sent in bulk and modeled after legitimate messages sent by real-world Internet services or sites. The virus files may be directly attached or linked in the body contents or embedded as multimedia content.
A related method is the creation of download sites that are modeled after well-known vendor sites and Internet portals. Both the fake emails and sites are also among the main methods for spreading infected payloads of which there are two popular types:
- Infected Documents — The hackers can embed malicious scripts into files of all popular types types: presentations, spreadsheets, databases and text documents. Whenever they are opened a script may be run or permissions requested to execute them. When this is done the virus installation will commence.
- Software Bundles — The criminals can embed the RotorCrypt ransomware installation code in application setup files. The hackers typically choose popular applcations that are frequently installed by end users. The list includes software such as productivity applications, creativity suites and system utilities. Whenever they are installed the Rotorcrypt ransomware will also be implanted onto the victim machines. provide
Virus code like this one in all of its forms can also be spread via file sharing networks such as BitTorrent. They are a very popular method for distributing both stand-alone files and pirate content. The fact that they spread such copies of software makes it a very prominent source of infected payloads, especially malware setup files.
In certain cases the criminals behind the active RotorCrypt ransomware campaign can also spread the virus instances via malicious web browser plugins. They are made to resemble useful extensions, the versions are made compatible with the most popular web browsers. The associated descriptions usually includes fake user reviews and developer credentials. Whenever they are installed the built-in behavior patterns will be started. Usually this includes changes to the software such as modifications to the default home page, new tabs page and search engine. The virus infection will follow when these processes are complete.
RotorCrypt Ransomware – Information
The RotorCrypt ransomware family is a popular hacking tool which may be offered to interested parties. The collected samples have undergone an initial security analysis. When the virus is implanted in the system it will start its built-in commands which can vary according to the hacker instructions. As it is based on a modular framework the attacks can change at any time.
The RotorCrypt files appear to be test versions as not all functionality of the RotorCrypt ransomware family is exhibited.
The analysis shows that the engine is run as a standalone process which is assigned to run the following actions:
- System Files Removal — The associated engine has been found to delete the Shadow Volume Copies, System Restore points and other data that is used to restore the normal functioning of the operating system.
- Boot Options Modification — The test samples of this RotorCrypt ransomware have been found to alter the boot options by disabling access to the recovery boot menu. The virus will modify the options in a way which makes it impossible to use several manual recovery guides.
These two actions are undertaken in order to make recovery more difficult and allow the virus engine to start other modules as well.
Some of the common tactics enforced by this type of ransomware include a series of actions data harvesting commands. The hijacked information can help the operators expose the identity of the victims. This is done by targeting strings such as their name, address, phone number, location data and any stored account credentials. The engine can access both the operating system and any installed applications which makes infections with the RotorCRypt ransomware very dangerous. The other group of data includes a report on the installed hardware parts, user settings and operating system environment values.
What may follow in the typical case is a stealth infiltration which will bypass the security software installed on the target computer. This is done by scanning for the signatures of engines such as those belonging to anti-virus programs and sandbox environments. Many ransomware versions can also detect if they are running inside a virtual machine hosts and terminate the process.
Infections with such threats can be very dangerous as they can be used to plant other malware. Examples include other ransomware, viruses or Trojans. The Trojan installations are one of the most dangerous consequences as they can establish a secure connection to a hacker-controlled server. This allows the hackers to take over control of the hosts, spy on the users and hijack their files both before and after the encryption has taken place.
RotorCrypt Ransomware – Encryption Process
When these modules have completed execution the encryption module will be started. A strong cipher is used to process sensitive user data:
- Archives
- Documents
- Databases
- Backups
- Images
- Videos
- Music
All victim files will be renamed with the .!@#$%^&-()_+.1C extension. Such renaming schemes are typical of this malware family. The associated ransomware note is created in a file called INFO.txt. It includes the following content:
Для связи с нами используйте почту
inkognitoman@tutamail.com
inkognitoman@firemail.cc
A translation of the note from Russian reads the following:
To contact us use the following email addresses
inkognitoman@tutamail.com
inkognitoman@firemail.cc
Remove RotorCrypt Ransomware and Restore !@#$%^&-()_+.1C Files
If your computer got infected with the RotorCrypt Ransomware 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
1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.
It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.
2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.
3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.
4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.
If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC. 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:
1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear. ![delete ransomware from windows step 1]()
2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER. ![delete ransomware from windows step 2]()
3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall" 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:
1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK. ![delete ransomware virus registries step 1]()
2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above. ![delete ransomware virus registries step 2]()
3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it. 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
1. Hold Windows Key + R. ![remove ransomware in safe mode step 1]()
2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK. ![remove ransomware in safe mode step 2]()
3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK". Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.
4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode. ![remove ransomware in safe mode step 4]()
5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen. ![remove ransomware in safe mode step 5]()
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.
1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath: 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.
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.
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
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.
