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.cryptgh0st File Ransomware – How to Remove Virus and Restore Data

This article has been created to help explain what is the .cryptgh0st files ransomware virus and how to remove this ransomware from your PC plus how to restore files, encrypted by it on your computer.

The .cryptgh0st ransomware virus aims to perform a wide variety of activities that ultimately result in the ransomware virus encrypting your files and leaving behind the .cryptgh0st file extension to the encrypted files. The .cryptgh0st ransomware virus drops beind a ransom note file on the victims’ computers which is called READ_TO_DECRYPT.html. The ransom note file’s primary purpose is to get victims to pay a hefty ransom in order to get their encrypted files recovered back to their original state. If your computer has been infected by the .cryptgh0st ransomware virus, we advise that you read the following article to learn how to remove it from your computer and recover your files.

Threat Summary

Name .cryptgh0st Files Virus
Type Ransomware, Cryptovirus
Short Description What appears to be a variant of mauri870 ransomware. Encrypts files, making them unable to be opened and asks from victims to pay ransom.
Symptoms Files are encrypted with the .cryptgh0st file extension added to them and a ransom note, called READ_TO_DECRYPT.html is also dropped.
Distribution Method Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files
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User Experience Join Our Forum to Discuss .cryptgh0st 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.

.cryptgh0st Ransomware – How Does It Infect

The .cryptgh0st ransomware has been detected to infect computers via several methods. The main one which also accounts for over 80% of ransomware infections all over the world is likely conducted via e-mail spam campaigns. These types of e-mails are carefully designed In order to resemble legitimate types of e-mails, coming from big companies. One such e-mail is the fake spam message underneath:

The e-mails that may contain the malicious attachments of .cryptgh0st files virus may also have web links disguised as fake buttons within them. These fake URLs often aim to get victims to download and install various different types of programs or they may automatically infect you via malicious JavaScript.

In addition to via e-mail, the .cryptgh0st ransomware may also be spread via various different types of malicious files on the victim’s computer, that are downloaded by the victim, while he or she believes they are legitimate files, such as:

  • Installers of programs.
  • Programs that pretend to be game cracks.
  • Fake portable software.
  • Fraudulent patches of software.

.cryptgh0st Files Virus – How Does It Work

Once this virus has infected your computer, the payload dropper aims to create it’s malicious files on your computer. The files may exist in the following Windows directories, often under random names or names that resemble legitimate programs:

Before starting, the .cryptgh0st ransomware may also begin to check your computer for different information, such as:

  • Look for unsecured ports.
  • Antivirus software installed.
  • If the virus files are dropped on a Virtual Drive and not an actual OS.

Once these all check out, the .cryptgh0st ransomware may start it’s malcious actions. The virus may begin with creating mutexes and interfering with Windows system files. It may also create Windows Registry entries in the following Windows sub-keys so that it’s malicious files run automatically when Windows boots up:

→ 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

In addition to this, the .cryptgh0st virus may also create scheduled tasks for programs or files to also run automatically on your PC. One of those may be the virus’s ransom note, named READ_TO_DECRYPT.html. It is created on the victim’s computer shortly after infection and looks like the following:

!!! THIS ISNT A JOKE !!!
!!! ALL YOUR COMPANY DATA GOT ENCRYPTED !!!
!!! READ THE TEXT !!!

YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED USING A
STRONG AES-256 ALGORITHM.

YOUR IDENTIFICATION IS
[redacted 32 bytes]

SEND 0,03 BTC TO THE FOLLOWING WALLET
1DYshktcRhJ9B8cpiuFquffjKWnxdGWMsf

AND AFTER PAY CONTACT cryptgh0st@protonmail.com
SENDING YOUR IDENTIFICATION TO RECOVER
THE KEY NECESSARY TO DECRYPT YOUR FILES

IF YOU ARE NOT PAYING IN THE NEXT 48H
ALL YOUR FILES WILL BE REMOVED FOR EVER

!!! THIS ISNT A JOKE !!!
!!! ALL YOUR COMPANY DATA GOT ENCRYPTED !!!
!!! READ THE TEXT !!!

Furhermore, the .cryptgh0st ransomware may also delete the volume shadow copies of your computer, possibly by running an automated script, that deletes the backed up copies via executing commands as an administrator in Windows Command Prompt:

→ process call create “cmd.exe /c vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet & bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no & bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures

.cryptgh0st Ransomware – Encryption Process

To encrypt files on the victim’s computer, the .cryptgh0st ransomware may scan it for different types of files, while cleverly excluding system folders, like %System32% and others of such type. The files that this virus may look for are believed to be the following types;

  • Videos.
  • Photos.
  • Audio files.
  • Images.
  • Files, associated with often used programs(Photoshop, Microsoft Office, etc.)

Once the .cryptgh0st ransomware virus detects that such files are present, the ransomware uses an advanced encryption technique in order to make those files no longer able to be opened by changing portions of code in those files, enough to make them seem corrupt. Shortly after this, the virus also adds the .cryptgh0st file extension to the encrypted files and then changes the name of the files to a base64 encoding identificator. They start to look like the image below shows:

Remove .cryptgh0st Ransomware and Try Recovering Your Files

To make sure that this ransomware is gone from your computer system, we advise that you read the article underneath. It’s primary purpose is to explain to you how you can remove this ransomware from your computer system the way you prefer to do so – manually or automatically. In addition to this, the .cryptgh0st ransomware should be removed automatically as experts often advise with the aid of an anti-malware software. Such program will effectively make sure that the .cryptgh0st ransomware’s related files and objects are fully gone and your computer remains protected against any infections that might occur to it in the future.

Furthermore, if you do want to try and recover as many encrypted files as possible, we do advise that your try out the alternative methods for file recovery underneath in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by .cryptgh0st Files Virus”. They may not be 100% effective to recover your files, but we have reports by users of over 60% of the files being able to be recovered via these tools.

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
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Step 4
  • Step 5

Step 1: Scan for .cryptgh0st Files 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.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 2


3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 3


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.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 4

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide

Step 2: Uninstall .cryptgh0st 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:


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"
delete ransomware from windows step 3Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.


Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st Files 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.
delete ransomware virus registries step 3 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.

IMPORTANT!
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 .cryptgh0st Files Virus

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!
We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

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".
remove ransomware in safe mode step 3
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 .cryptgh0st 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:

stop ransomware decryptor step 1

2. Agree with the license terms:

stop ransomware decryptor step 2

3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:

stop ransomware decryptor step 3

4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.

stop ransomware decryptor step 4

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 .cryptgh0st 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.

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.


.cryptgh0st Files Virus-FAQ

What is .cryptgh0st Files Virus Ransomware?

.cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st Files Virus Infect?

Via several ways..cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st 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 ..cryptgh0st Files Virus files?

You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..cryptgh0st 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 ..cryptgh0st Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

Can I Restore "..cryptgh0st Files Virus" Files?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st Files Virus Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .cryptgh0st 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 .cryptgh0st 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.

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