Cring Ransomware
Cring is the name given to a malicious computer program that compromises PCs to lock personal files. It has recently been spotted in live attack campaigns. Its victims may be around the globe. Since the malware is developed to interfere with main system settings, it lowers the overall security. That’s why you should remove it from the infected device as soon as possible.
The most devastating impact this ransomware causes is the encryption of valuable files stored on the drives. It totally blocks access to the information these files store and requires a ransom fee for their recovery. Hence, if you are one of the Cring ransomware victims, it will try to blackmail you into paying a hefty ransom to hackers. Beware that the information stated by the file deReadMe!!!.txt does not guarantee that hackers will act as promised. There is a real chance that your .cring files will remain encrypted even after you act as expected.
Prevent falling victim to hackers once again by fixing the problem with the help of security measures that are proven to work.
Cring Ransomware Summary
| Name | Cring also known as Trojan.TR/Ransom.knziq, Win32:MalwareX-gen [Trj], Ransom:MSIL/Filecoder.EL!MTB |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Ransom Note | deReadMe!!!.txt |
| Short Description | Encrypts files on your computer and extorts a ransom fee for their recovery. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .cring extension. You see a ransom message that forces you to contact hackers for a decryption tool. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Cring Ransomware. |
| 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. |
Cring Virus
The Cring ransomware characterizes by being able to encode personal data with a sophisticated cipher algorithm. The process of encrypting files makes them completely inaccessible. They all could be recognized by the extension .cring appended by the ransomware. Their recovery is a process that demands a specialized decryption tool. That’s why creators of this Cring virus request a ransom payment via a ransom message.
The propagation campaigns of Cring ransomware are likely to be set against online users worldwide. As regards the methods that deliver this nasty program, they are likely to be malspam, corrupted web pages, software installers, P2P networks, and others.
More often than not hackers choose spam emails with malicious attachments as the main infection vector. The malicious code tends to be embedded in commonly used file types such as documents and archives. Afterward, those corrupted files are attached to emails that pose as representatives of popular institutions, services, and media.
File attachments that may be carrying the Cring virus infection may be presented as:
- Invoices coming from reputable sites, like PayPal, eBay, etc.
- Documents that appear to be sent from your bank.
- Online order confirmation notes.
- Receipts for a purchase.
- Tax bills, etc.
When executed on a PC the Cring virus becomes able to trigger a long sequence of malicious operations. By doing this the ransomware corrupts the regular settings of essential system components. One such component is the Windows Registry. The threat may misuse its functionalities to terminate essential security-related processes and activate malicious files instead.
Finally, the virus becomes able to reach target files of commonly used types and encrypt them with the help of the sophisticated cipher algorithm.
Files encrypted by Cring ransomware virus can be recognized by the extension .cring that is appended to their names. All files that store important information may be corrupted by the threat including – .doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .ppt, .pptx, .csv, .db, .dwg, .mdb, .pdf, .rar, .txt, .xml, .zip.
For their recovery, Cring extorts a ransom fee. The extortion process happens with the help of a ransom note called deReadMe!!!.txt
Here is a copy of the ransom message text:
Sorry, your network is encrypted, and most files are encrypted using a special technology. Any security company cannot recover the file. If you do not believe that you can even consult a security company, your answer will be that you need to pay the corresponding fees, but we have a good reputation. After receiving the corresponding fee, we will immediately send the decryption program and KEY. You can contact us to get two file decryption services, and then you will get all decryption services after paying our fee, usually, the cost is about 2 bitcoins. Contact: eternalnightmare@tutanota.com qkhooks0708@protonmail.com
Beware that by paying the ransom, you may still be unable to recover .cring files. Cybercriminals may send you a broken decryptor. They may also neglect your messages and stop answering you.
Remove Cring Ransomware Virus and Restore Data
The so-called Cring Virus is a threat with a highly complex code that is designed to corrupt both system settings and valuable data. Hence, it would help if you clean malicious entries from the infected system before using it securely again. The complete removal process of all malicious files and objects created by Cring Virus ransomware is shown in the following steps. For maximum efficiency, we recommend that you complete all the presented steps. Beware that manual ransomware removal is a rather complicated task that requires good computer skills. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual measures, navigate the guide’s automatic part.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for Cring Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Cring Ransomware.
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 Cring Ransomware 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.
Cring Ransomware-FAQ
What is Cring Ransomware Ransomware?
Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware 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 .Cring Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Cring Ransomware 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 .Cring Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Cring Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Cring Ransomware 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 Cring Ransomware 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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