.crypto Files Virus (Scarab Ransomware) – Remove and Restore Data

by Ventsislav Krastev | March 22, 2018 | 0 Comments .crypto, file-encryption, malware, ransomware, Scarab, Update November 2019

This article has been created in order to explain what is the .crypto files virus (Scarab Ransomware) and how to remove it from your computer plus how to restore .crypto files, encrypted by this ransomware infection on your computer.

The .crypto files virus is the type of infection whose primary purpose is to encrypt the files on your computer and set the .crypto file extension as their suffix. The ransomware virus is part of the Scarab ransomware family of viruses. The ransomware aims to use the AES encryption algorithm in order to make the files on your computer to appear corrupt and the virus drops a ransom note, named “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT”, which additionally explains how to pay a hefty ransom fee in Bitcoin to the cyber-criminals behind this virus in order to get them to decrypt your files.

Threat Summary

Name	.crypto Scarab Virus
Type	Ransomware, Cryptovirus
Short Description	Encrypts the important files on the infected computer and then asks it’s owner to pay a ransom to retrieve them.
Symptoms	Files are appended the .crypto file extension and are no longer openable. Added ransom note, named “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT”
Distribution Method	Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files
Detection Tool	See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware Download Malware Removal Tool
User Experience	Join Our Forum to Discuss .crypto Scarab 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.

.crypto Scarab Ransomware – Update November 2019

November 2019 brings a new update for the .crypto Scarab ransomware. The ransom note, contact e-mails as well as a few minor changes can be seen. The ransom note is called !!! RETURN YOUR FILES !!!.TXT and is showcased down here:

Hi..
Your files are now encrypted!
Your personal identifier:
[Redacted] Need to recover all files? and do you need a guarantee?
Write here:
crypto7892@gmx.de
crypto7892@protonmail.com
To get an answer – always write to two mails at the same time!!
If you have not received an answer, write to me again!!

The associated e-mail addresses are the following:

crypto7892@gmx.de
crypto7892@protonmail.com

.CRYPTO Scarab Ransomware – Update December 2018

The month of December, 2018 brings an update to one of the most nefarious ransomware cryptoviruses of this year. Scarab ransomware with the .crypto extension now has it changed to capital letters, so it is effectively .CRYPTO. The new ransom note is called “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT” and is shown in the image below:

The ransom note’s contents remain more or less the same. However, two new email addresses have been left for contacting the cybercriminals. These two emails are the following:

ProjectJoke@aol.com
projectjoke@india.com

Nothing else seems to have changed, except that the newer variant has been pushed more, in order to infect newer victims with the .CRYPTO extension.

.crypto Scarab Ransomware – How Does It Infect

The primary method of infection, conducted in connection to scarab ransomware has been reported by malware researchers to be e-mail spam messages, which carry malicious e-mail attachments, archived within a .7z archive. The e-mails are similar to a standard spam campaign, sending the Necurs botnet. These e-mails aim to trick you into downloading the malicious attachment, by making it appear as if it is a legitimate one. Here is one e-mail which was detected to carry one of the malicious e-mail attachments of a Scarab ransomware iteration:

In addition to this, the malicious files, related to .crypto Scarab ransomware may contain different types of technologies that can help the virus infect your computer while it is unnoticed. Some of those tools that may be used by this virus are believed to be the following:

Exploit kits.
Injectors.
Malicious updates.
Infected setups.

These tools may be used to spread Scarab .crypto ransomware via other methods as well, besides the standard e-mail spam we have detected so far:

Via fake installers of programs you may be looking to download.
Via fake software activators as well as fake cracks and patches.
Via malicious web links sent via e-mail or posted on social media.

.crypto Scarab Ransomware – Analysis

As soon as infection by this ransomware virus takes place, it immediately becomes evident that the ransomware starts it’s activity. It’s first task is to connect to a command and control server or extract it’s payload on your computer. The payload files of the .crypto files virus may be created in the following system folders of Windows:

%AppData%
%Local%
%LocalRow%
%Roaming%
%Temp%

In addition to this, the ransomware also drops it’s ransom note, named “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT”. As reported by researchers, the ransom note has the following message addressed to the victim:

Warning read this carefully!!!!!!
All your files are encrypted
Your personal identifier
{UNIQUE ID}
Your documents, photos, databases, save games and other important data were encrypted.
Data recovery requires a decryptor.
To receive the decryptor, you should send an email to the email address: anticrypto@protonmail.com.
In the letter, indicate your personal identifier (see the beginning of this document).
Next, you pay the cost of the decryptor. In the reply letter you will receive the address
Bitcoin-purse, to which you need to transfer money.
If you do not have bitcoins you can buy Bitcoin:
https://localbitcoins.com/ru/buy_bitcoins(Visa/MasterCard, QIWI Visa Wallet ….)
Also you can use any convenient way for you to buy bitcoin
When the money transfer is confirmed, you will receive a file decryption for your computer.
After starting the decryption program, all your files will be restored.
Attention!
* Do not attempt to uninstall the program or run antivirus software
* Attempts to self-decrypt files will result in the loss of your data
* Decoders of other users are incompatible with your data, as each user unique encryption key

After the ransomware drops it’s ransom note file, it may also attack the Windows Registry Editor, where it sets a registry entry in some the following sub –keys:

→ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunServicesOnce
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunServices
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce

The reason why the .crypto Files Virus does this is to make it possible for it’s malicious .exe file which is with a random name and located somewhere in the %SystemDrive% folders of Windows, may run automatically when you start Windows.

In addition to modifying the Windows Registry Editor, the Scarab .crypto ransomware may also delete the shadow volume copies on the infected computer. This is achievable if the virus silently runs a script that executes the following command as an administrator on your PC:

.crypto Files Virus – How Does it Encrypt Files

The process of file encryption of this virus is conducted in the same way, like it is with any other version of the Scarab ransomware family. The malware aims to encrypt, using the AES encryption algorithm and it may also use base64 to rename the files and add the .crypto file extension to them. This process results in the files starting to appear, like the following:

The files which are encrypted by this version of Scarab ransomware are usually often used types of files, such as documents, videos, pictures, audio files, archives and others. The .crypto files virus is very careful not to encrypt executables that are crucial for Windows and may damage it’s functionality.

Remove .crypto Files Virus and Try Restoring Your Files

In order to remove this ransomware virus from your computer, we recommend that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They are created to help you remove the .crypto files virus either manually or automatically, based on how much experience you have when it comes to malware removal. In addition to this, experts strongly advise that an advanced anti-malware software is the best solution to secure your PC, if it has been infected by the Scarab .crypto variant. Installing such program and scanning your PC with it will also make sure to detect and remove any other malware that may currently reside there as well.

Furthermore, if you want to try and restore files, encrypted by Scarab .crypto ransomware, we recommend that you try using the alternative methods for file recovery underneath this article in step “2. Restore files encrypted by .crypto Scarab Virus”. They have been created in order to help you recover as many encrypted files as possible without having to pay for their decryption and although they are not 100% effective to recover all your files, they are your best alternative bet against this virus.

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.

How to Remove .crypto Scarab Virus from Windows.

Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove .crypto Scarab 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

2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.

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.

5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.

Step 2: Uninstall .crypto Scarab Virus and related software 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.

2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.

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 uninstall most programs.

Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .crypto Scarab 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 .crypto Scarab Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.

2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.

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.

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: Scan for .crypto Scarab Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.

Download

Malware Removal Tool

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.

Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .crypto Scarab Virus.

Ransomware infections and .crypto Scarab 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 reccomended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

EaseUS Data Recovery Software

Simply click on the link and on the website menus on top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.

Windows Mac OS X

Get rid of .crypto Scarab Virus from Mac OS X.

Step 1: Uninstall .crypto Scarab Virus and remove related files and objects

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!

We Recommend To Scan Your Mac with SpyHunter for Mac

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter for Mac needs to purchased to remove the malware threats. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter’s EULA and Privacy Policy

1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:

2. Find Activity Monitor and double-click it:

3. In the Activity Monitor look for any suspicious processes, belonging or related to .crypto Scarab Virus:

Tip: To quit a process completely, choose the “Force Quit” option.

4. Click on the "Go" button again, but this time select Applications. Another way is with the ⇧+⌘+A buttons.

5. In the Applications menu, look for any suspicious app or an app with a name, similar or identical to .crypto Scarab Virus. If you find it, right-click on the app and select “Move to Trash”.

6: Select Accounts, after which click on the Login Items preference. Your Mac will then show you a list of items that start automatically when you log in. Look for any suspicious apps identical or similar to .crypto Scarab Virus. Check the app you want to stop from running automatically and then select on the Minus (“-“) icon to hide it.

7: Remove any left-over files that might be related to this threat manually by following the sub-steps below:

Go to Finder.
In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.

In case you cannot remove .crypto Scarab Virus via Step 1 above:

In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:

Disclaimer! If you are about to tamper with Library files on Mac, be sure to know the name of the virus file, because if you delete the wrong file, it may cause irreversible damage to your MacOS. Continue on your own responsibility!

1: Click on "Go" and Then "Go to Folder" as shown underneath:

2: Type in "/Library/LauchAgents/" and click Ok:

3: Delete all of the virus files that have similar or the same name as .crypto Scarab Virus. If you believe there is no such file, do not delete anything.

You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:

→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons

Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.

Step 2: Scan for and remove malware from your Mac

When you are facing problems on your Mac as a result of unwanted scripts, programs and malware, the recommended way of eliminating the threat is by using an anti-malware program. Combo Cleaner offers advanced security features along with other modules that will improve your Mac’s security and protect it in the future.

Download

Combo Cleaner

Step 3 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .crypto Scarab Virus.

1. Download the reccomended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

EaseUS Data Recovery Software

Simply click on the link and on the website menus on top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.

.crypto Scarab Virus FAQ

What is .crypto Scarab Virus ransomware and how does it work?

.crypto Scarab 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 algorithm how 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.

How does .crypto Scarab Virus ransomware infect my computer?

Via several ways..crypto Scarab Virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing e-mails, 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.

After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.

Another way, you may become a victim of .crypto Scarab 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 ..crypto Scarab Virus files?

You can't. At this point the ..crypto Scarab Virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted.

Decryptor did not decrypt my data. What now?

Do not panic and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your ..crypto Scarab Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

One way to restore files, encrypted by .crypto Scarab Virus ransomware is to use a decryptor for it. But since it's a new virus, advised that the decryption keys for it may not be out yet and available to the public. We will update this article and keep you posted as soon as this decryptor is released.

How Do I restore "..crypto Scarab Virus" files (Other Methods)?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..crypto Scarab Virus files.

These methods are in no way 100% guarantee that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.

How do I get rid of .crypto Scarab Virus ransomware virus?

The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti malware software. It will scan for and locate .crypto Scarab Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..crypto Scarab Virus files.

Also, keep in mind that viruses like .crypto Scarab Virus ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts. Scanning your computer with an anti-malware software will make sure that all of these virus components are removed and your computer is protected in the future.

What to Do If nothing works?

There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:

Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted it can be re-downloaded from the web.
Another clever way to get back some of your files is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.

More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.