This article has been created in order to explain what is the .cypher files virus and how to remove it from your computer system plus how to restore files, that have been encrypted by it without having to pay the ransom.
The ransomware infection, known as the .cypher files virus has been reported to infect victims via an .exe file, which immediately begins to encrypt the important files on their computers and then the malware may demand a ransom payoff from it’s victims to get the files to become accessible again. In the event that your computer has been infected by the .cypher ransomware infection, we advise you to read the following article in order to understand what is this infection and how to remove it from your computer, plus how to try and recover your files without paying the ransom.
Threat Summary
| Name | .cypher Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The .cypher files virus aims to encrypt the files on the infected computer with a possible goal to get the victim to pay a hefty ransom (1 BitCoin) to decrypt the encrypted files. |
| Symptoms | The main symptom after this virus runs on your PC is the files having the .cypher file extension added. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
| 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. |
.cypher Ransomware – Latest Iterations
It appears that the ransomware still encrypts files by adding the same extension to them, but has a new ransom note. You can preview it from the screenshot provided below:
The ransom note message states the following:
Your files have been encrypted.
To decrypt your files, follow the instructions
Open your explorer, in the pathbar, enter %appdata%
Find the file encryption_key and send it to to email: biggsurprise@tutanota.com or ochennado@tutanota.com
Await payment instructions.
The note is shorter, but the cybercriminals want you to write an email so you could get further instructions.
.cypher Ransomware – Spread
The main method which accounts to more than 80% of the ransomware viruses out there for propagation is reported to be e-mail spam. The spammed messages may directly contain the infection file of this virus, masked as a legitimate Microsoft Office document, an Invoice, a banking receipt, or any other form of order confirmation or documents of importance. Such e-mails are often sent and accompanied by various different types of deceitful messages that aim to deceive you that the attachment is important, for example:
In addition to via e-mail, the .cypher ransomware may also be spread by being uploaded as a seemingly legitimate file, like a fake setup of a program, a license activator or a game patch or crack. Such files are often uploaded on suspicious sites, from the likes of torrent websites, or software providing sites with low rating.
.cypher Ransomware – More Information
After it infects your computer, .cypher files virus drops an executable type of file on your computer which has a random A-Z, a-z, 0-9 name and has the following parameters, according to analysis at reverse.it.
When the malicious file is finally executed, it may begin to drop the ransom note of the virus, named README_.txt. It has the following message for the victims of this malware:
Your files have been encrypted!
To decrypt your files, send 1.0 Bitcoin to this address: {BTC Address}
Affter your payment is complete, you can decrypt files with decryption program.
Download decryption program here.
Payment status: Not paid yet.
FAQ
Question: Where can I get BitCoin wallet?
Answer: Simple and easy to use wallet.
Question: Where can I buy Bitcoins?
Answer: Guide to various methods of buying Bitcoin.
Then, the .cypher malware begins to read the computer name, by chedking the registry entry “COMPUTERNAME”:
→ “HKLM\SYSTEM\CONTROLSET001\CONTROL\COMPUTERNAME\ACTIVECOMPUTERNAME”
In addition to this, the malware drops over 2000 different files and furthermore, it also deletes the following system files:
→ “%PROGRAMFILES%\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\IDTemplates\DEU\AdobeID.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\IDTemplates\DEU\DefaultID.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\IDTemplates\ENU\AdobeID.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\IDTemplates\ENU\DefaultID.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\PDFSigQFormalRep.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\plug_ins\Annotations\Stamps\DEU\Dynamic.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\plug_ins\Annotations\Stamps\DEU\SignHere.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\plug_ins\Annotations\Stamps\DEU\StandardBusiness.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\plug_ins\Annotations\Stamps\ENU\Dynamic.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\plug_ins\Annotations\Stamps\ENU\SignHere.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\plug_ins\Annotations\Stamps\ENU\StandardBusiness.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Reader\plug_ins\Annotations\Stamps\Words.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Resource\ENUtxt.pdf”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Resource\TypeSupport\Unicode\Mappings\Adobe\symbol.txt”
“C:\Program Files\Adobe\Reader 11.0\Resource\TypeSupport\Unicode\Mappings\Adobe\zdingbat.txt”
“C:\Program Files\AutoIt3\AutoItX\Examples\C++\_readme.txt”
“C:\Program Files\AutoIt3\AutoItX\Examples\VBScript\_readme.txt”
“C:\Program Files\AutoIt3\Examples\COM\Worksheet.xls”
Then, the ransomware virus drops the following types of files on the victim’s computer:
→ “ReadMe.txt.cypher”
“HPFeb15_arrow_left[1].png.cypher”
“pspubws@bidswitch[1].txt.cypher”
“TableTextServiceDaYi.txt.cypher”
“readme.txt.cypher”
“flower_settings.png.cypher”
pspubws@uplift-platform[2].txt.cypher
“docked_gray_hail.png.cypher”
“shadowonlyframe_selectionsubpicture.png.cypher”
“CA-wp5.jpg.cypher”
“BBjBl9m[1].png.cypher”
In addition to this, the ransomware virus may also begin to execute Windows Command Prompt script which begins to encrypt the files on the infected computer.
.cypher Files Virus – Encryption Process
The encryption process of this ransowmare is conducted via a script which scans for the important files on the victim’s PC, such as:
- Documents.
- Audio files.
- Videos.
- Images.
- Archives.
The malware also immediately adds it’s distinctive .cypher file extension to the encrypted files, making them appear like the image below displays:
Remove .cypher Ransomware and Restore Encrypted Files
In order to delete this ransomware infection, we advise that you follow the removal instructions down below. They are specifically designed in order to help you to remove the .cypher virus either manually or automatically. If you lack the experience in removing malware, like .cypher ransomware manually, experts always recommend using an advanced anti-malware software to delete this virus automatically and to protect your computer in real-time against threats in the future.
If you want to restore files that have been encrypted with the .cypher file extension, we advise you to follow step “2. Restore files encrypted by .cypher Files Virus”. They may not be 100% guarantee you will recover all of the files, but with their aid, you may restore most of your important documents.
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .cypher Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .cypher 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .cypher 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 .cypher Files Virus 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 .cypher Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .cypher 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:
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 .cypher 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.
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.
.cypher Files Virus-FAQ
What is .cypher Files Virus Ransomware?
.cypher 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 .cypher 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 .cypher Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..cypher 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 .cypher 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 ..cypher Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..cypher 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 ..cypher Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..cypher Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..cypher 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 .cypher 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 .cypher Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..cypher 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 .cypher 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 .cypher Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .cypher 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 .cypher 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.