by Ventsislav Krastev | February 3, 2017 | 0 Comments encryption, malware, Protection, virus, Windows

This article will help you fully remove CryptoShield 1.1 crypto virus, using the .cryptoshield file extension from your computer and restore the encrypted files.

The notorious CryptoShield ransomware virus has been spotted out in the wild in a new version. The new iteration of CryptoShield 1.1 uses a custom file extension to encrypt files. It also drops a file thatcontains a ransom note that aims to make the victim of CryptoShield aware of the ransowmare’s presence on his computer. This CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware virus also has some incremental changes in comparison to the previous versions of the malware. In case you have become a victim of this ransomware virus, we recommend reading the following material to learn how to remove CryptoShield ransomware from your computer and how to restore your files in case they have been encrypted by it.

Threat Summary

Name	CryptoShield 1.1
Type	Ransomware
Short Description	This CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware variant encrypts files with RSA cipher and asks a ransom payoff for decryption.
Symptoms	Files are enciphered and become inaccessible by any type of software. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows on the infected PC.
Distribution Method	Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks, Malicious Executable in Torrent Trackers.
Detection Tool	See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware Download Malware Removal Tool
User Experience	Join our forum to Discuss CryptoShield 1.1 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.

New CryptoShield 1.1 Ransomware – How Does It Infect

Deception is the key to a successful infection and the people behind this iteration of CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware know this. This is why they use cunning e-mails to deceive users who are inexperienced into opening the files encrypted by this iteration of the ransomware.

These type of specific e-mails may contain either an embedded URL or an e-mail attachment in a .ZIP archive. These attachments may pass through most of the antivirus blockers on the e-mail platforms, because they are hidden with an obfuscation software.

Not only this, but the e-mails are created to resemble different companies or respectful organizations such as:

Banks.
FedEx.
Amazon.
E-bay.
AliExpress.
LinkedIn.

These e-mails may present the malicious attachment as an invoice, bill of arrangement and other types of files along with messages that prompt the quick reaction from the user, like a request to urgently open the attachment. This results in the virus successfully infecting the computer from which the attachment is opened.

After infection, the malicious attachment infecting with CryptoShield may connect to the remote distribution site from which the payload of CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware is downloaded.Independent malware researcher Karsten Hahn
(@struppigel) has tweeted the threat’s malicious executable with a very low detection ratio on 3 February, 2017:

CryptoShield Ransomware – Encryption and Ransom

After having already infected the computer, the CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware virus gets right down to business. The ransomware aims to perform multiple activities on the compromised computer. For once, it begins to modify the Windows Registry Editor, so that the malicious files run on Windows boot up. The usually targeted registry keys for this are the Run and RunOnce subkeys. But the virus may also drop it’s ransom note in the %Startup% folder.

This is not all, however. Bear in mind that CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware is a threat like no other. This is why, the virus may also touch specific system files that will allow it to control the processes in Windows Task manager. This gives the CryptoShield virus the power to discontinue database processes and other critical Windows Processes. These actions may allow it not only to encrypt videos, music, documents, and other important files, but to encrypt whole databases as well.

For the file encryption, CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware has so far used the RSA cipher. The encryption procedure happens by replacing bytes of the files with symbols belonging to the encryption algorithm. After encryption takes placed, the files are no longer able to be opened and they appear corrupt. Similar to the 1.0 version, the files carry the .cryptoshield file extension:

Another activity which CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware may perform after the encryption is issue administrative commands to delete shadow copies from the infected computer. One of those commands may be the vssadmin command in administrative mode.

To make sure it’s presence is known, CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware drops a ransom note. This ransom note not only aims to stress the seriousness of the situation but also makes sure the user is completely aware of what the situation is. The ransom note also contains instructions on paying a hefty fee to the cyber-crooks behind this CryptoShield 1.1 variant.

CryptoShield Ransomware – Remove and Try to Decrypt Files

As a bottom line, this iteration of CryptoShield 1.1 has some very interesting changes, primarily in how it is hidden from antivirus programs. With it, we see that cyber-criminals are also keeping up with the latest technologies to ensure their profits from online extortion. In case you have fallen to be a victim of CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware, advises are not to pay any ransom to cyber-criminals.

Instead, it is strongly suggestible to remove that virus by following the instructions below. Security experts advise to use a specific anti-malware software which will scan your computer automatically, so that you can be very fast and thorough in removing CryptoShield ransomware, especially if you do not have experience in malware removal.

After having removed this CryptoShield 1.1 ransomware versions, there is nothing left for you but to wait for security researchers to make a breakrough, which, if happens, we will make sure to update it and link on this article, so we advise checking it regularly.

Besides this, you also have several alternative file restoration options, like trying to salvage your files via shadow copies, attempting to get them back via data recovery software, tracking down online communication with a network sniffer or tampering with your files via a third-party decryptor. We have added some suggestions in relation to those methods down below on step “2. Restore files encrypted by CryptoShield 1.1” below and our advice is to backup your encrypted files and try those methods with copies of them on your affected system.

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 CryptoShield 1.1 from Windows.

Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove CryptoShield 1.1

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 CryptoShield 1.1 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 CryptoShield 1.1 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 CryptoShield 1.1 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 CryptoShield 1.1 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.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Get rid of CryptoShield 1.1 from Mac OS X.

Step 1: Uninstall CryptoShield 1.1 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 CryptoShield 1.1:

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 CryptoShield 1.1. 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 CryptoShield 1.1. 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 CryptoShield 1.1 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 CryptoShield 1.1. 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 CryptoShield 1.1 files from your Mac

When you are facing problems on your Mac as a result of unwanted scripts and programs such as CryptoShield 1.1, the recommended way of eliminating the threat is by using an anti-malware program. SpyHunter for Mac offers advanced security features along with other modules that will improve your Mac’s security and protect it in the future.

Click the button below below to download SpyHunter for Mac and scan for CryptoShield 1.1:

Download

SpyHunter for Mac

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Remove CryptoShield 1.1 from Google Chrome.

Step 1: Start Google Chrome and open the drop menu

Step 2: Move the cursor over "Tools" and then from the extended menu choose "Extensions"

Step 3: From the opened "Extensions" menu locate the unwanted extension and click on its "Remove" button.

Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Google Chrome by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Erase CryptoShield 1.1 from Mozilla Firefox.

Step 1: Start Mozilla Firefox. Open the menu window

Step 2: Select the "Add-ons" icon from the menu.

Step 3: Select the unwanted extension and click "Remove"

Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Mozilla Firefox by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Uninstall CryptoShield 1.1 from Microsoft Edge.

Step 1: Start Edge browser.

Step 2: Open the drop menu by clicking on the icon at the top right corner.

Step 3: From the drop menu select "Extensions".

Step 4: Choose the suspected malicious extension you want to remove and then click on the gear icon.

Step 5: Remove the malicious extension by scrolling down and then clicking on Uninstall.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Remove CryptoShield 1.1 from Safari.

Step 1: Start the Safari app.

Step 2: After hovering your mouse cursor to the top of the screen, click on the Safari text to open its drop down menu.

Step 3: From the menu, click on "Preferences".

Step 4: After that, select the 'Extensions' Tab.

Step 5: Click once on the extension you want to remove.

Step 6: Click 'Uninstall'.

A pop-up window will appear asking for confirmation to uninstall the extension. Select 'Uninstall' again, and the CryptoShield 1.1 will be removed.

How to Reset Safari
IMPORTANT: Before resetting Safari make sure you back up all your saved passwords within the browser in case you forget them.

Start Safari and then click on the gear leaver icon.

Click the Reset Safari button and you will reset the browser.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Eliminate CryptoShield 1.1 from Internet Explorer.

Step 1: Start Internet Explorer.

Step 2: Click on the gear icon labeled 'Tools' to open the drop menu and select 'Manage Add-ons'

Step 3: In the 'Manage Add-ons' window.

Step 4: Select the extension you want to remove and then click 'Disable'. A pop-up window will appear to inform you that you are about to disable the selected extension, and some more add-ons might be disabled as well. Leave all the boxes checked, and click 'Disable'.

Step 5: After the unwanted extension has been removed, restart Internet Explorer by closing it from the red 'X' button located at the top right corner and start it again.