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How to Decrypt Files Encrypted by GandCrab Ransomware (Free)

This article has been created to help explain how to remove GANDCRAB ransomware from your computer and how you can decrypt files for all versions of the virus, from the first one to the last one.

GandCrab ransomware is the type of malware that has become quite the celebrity among ransomware viruses. The virus aims to extort users to make a payment in BitCoin or Dash in return for their encrypted files. The virus used a variety of different file extensions for its different variants. Below you can see all of the versions of GandCrab so far:

Luckily for all of the victims who have asked for decryptors, now there is a free decryption tool that uses specific RSA-2048 private key, which BitDefender kindly provides in their GandCrab Decryption Tool. These news broke out after the GandCrab creators released free decryption keys for the victims of the virus, who are citizens of Syria.

Related: [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/gandcrab-authors-release-decryption-keys-syrian-citizens/”]GandCrab Authors Release Decryption Keys for Syrian Citizens

GandCrab Ransomware Decryption – Update November 2018

A new version of GandCrab ransomware has come out, shortly after BitDefender have released their decryption tool, costing the GandCrab developers around 1 million dollars. The new version is called [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-gandcrab-5-0-5-ransomware/”]GANDCRAB 5.0.5 and currently there has been no decryption for it. However, you can check our file recovery and removal video of the 5.0.5 version, which contains more instructions and alternative methods that may help you to try and restore at least some of the files encrypted by v5.0.5.

GandCrab Ransomware Decryption Instructions

The encryption process of the first versions of GandCrab (v1, v2 and v3) used AES-256 encryption with a Cipher Block Chaining. The newer versions (v4 and v5) now use Salsa20 algorithm. The virus used to encrypt a larger portion of the files, risking to damage them, but now it encrypts only a small portion of the files via Salsa20, enough to render them no longer able to be opened. This is how the researchers have managed to reach a breakthrough and the result of that is the BitDefender GandCrab Decryptor. Below, you can find instructions on how you can restore files, encrypted by this version of GandCrab for free.

Important! Before decrypting your encrypted files, you will need to have at least one ransom note from your infection, which is required to recover the decryption key. So, before removing the virus files, make a copy of the ransom note on a flash drive or other external drive. Make sure to do this before scanning your PC.

The most preferred way to remove GandCrab ransomware is by downloading an anti-malware program and running a scan. Such a program is designed to remove malware automatically and to further protect the system.


SpyHunter scanner will only detect the threat. If you want the threat to be automatically removed, you need to purchase the full version of the anti-malware tool.Find Out More About SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool / How to Uninstall SpyHunter

Decryption Steps

Important! Before beginning decryption, make sure that you are connected to the internet as the BitDefender GandCrab V1, V4, V5 Decryptor works with BitDefneder’s servers to find the decryption keys and recover your files.

Step 1: Download the BitDefender GandCrab Decryptor by clicking on the download button underneath:

Step 2: Save the file where you can find it and Run it:

Step 3: Agree with the Software License Agreement by clicking “I Agree”.

Step 4: If you want specific encrypted files in a single folder to be decrypted, select them by clicking on “Browse”. If you want all files on your computer to be decrypted, tick “Scan Entire System”.

Step 5: Do not forget to tick “Backup Files” before begging, in case something goes wrong. If you see the “Ready to scan” indicator, click on the “Scan” button to begin the decryption process.

Step 6: The software will begin looking for the decryption keys. Be advised that this will definitely take some significant time so arm yourself with patience.

Step 7: When the software has finished decrypting your files, you should find them in the folder:

Be advised to check if all of your files are DECRYPTED successfully before removing the encrypted ones. To remove the encrypted files, you can search them by using Windows search. This can happen by opening “This PC” (My Computer) in Windows and then in the search bar on it’s top-right type the follow and search for it:

→ fileextension:{the extension of your files}

The files should start appearing and when the search is done, press CTRL+A to select all and then press Shift+Del to delete all of the files simultaneously:

Conclusion and Important Tips

Keep in mind that this decryption tool will first try to decrypt 5 files and if this test does not pass, it will not continue, although the probability for that is very low. Also note that BitDefender researchers find it important to receive any feedback, so if you fail to decrypt your files, you should contact them on forensics@bitdefender.com and send them the log file of the decryption process, which is usually located in %Temp%\BDRemovalTool directory.

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 GandCrab Ransomware 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 GandCrab 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:


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 GandCrab 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 GandCrab Ransomware 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 GandCrab Ransomware

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 GandCrab 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:

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 GandCrab 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.

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.


GandCrab Ransomware-FAQ

What is GandCrab Ransomware Ransomware?

GandCrab 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 GandCrab 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 GandCrab Ransomware Infect?

Via several ways.GandCrab 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 GandCrab 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 .GandCrab Ransomware files?

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

Can I Restore ".GandCrab Ransomware" Files?

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

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


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.

38 Comments
  1. Atikah

    Hi, Mr Ventsislav Krastev.

    Thank you for the information you have kindly posted above.

    On November 3rd 2018, I discovered that my PC was affected by GANDCRAB V5.0.4 by referring to JKSLZYRVRQ-DECRYPT. It seems to be everywhere in my computer. I have downloaded BDGandCrabDecryptor.exe.

    I have also followed the provided steps properly. Each time I try to scan using Bitdefender GandCrab V1, V4, V5 Decryptor – system looking for encryption key. After a while, it is shown that initialization failed.

    Reply
    1. Ventsislav Krastev

      Hello Atikah,

      I have done a check up on v5.0.4 of GandCrab and BitDefender has stated that it may not be able to work, since 5.0.4 is an updated GandCrab variant that contains fixes in the encryption process. Here is more info about it:

      labs.bitdefender.com/2018/10/gandcrab-ransomware-decryption-tool-available-for-free/

      I have however heard of people, affected by 5.0.4 who were able to decrypt their files, so this is what i advise you to do:

      During the scanning process, the BitDefender decryptor is connecting to the servers of BitDefender in order to look for decryption based on your decryption key in the ransom note. If the server fails to retrieve a key, then you can manually contact BitDefender by clicking on the “Feedback” button on the bottom right of the decrypter. As they say in their page you can also contact them via their support e-mail provided in their tool.

      Reply
      1. sam

        Hi Ventsislav
        My PC was affected GandCrab V5.2
        all my folder are crypted by .eddnnalkgl
        is there any solution please ?
        how time to got an update or a decryptor for new virus like this one ?
        thanks

        Reply
  2. samar

    i infected with GANDCRAB V4 and i downloaded Bitdefender and it dose not work with me

    Reply
    1. Ventsislav Krastev (Post author)

      Hello, see see the reply above.

      Best Regards

      Reply
  3. Asniel Alfonso

    This tool show me one error Initialization FAILED!, Plase I’am from Cuba and I need recovery some important information. The versión of GandCrab v5.0.3. Thank, helpme

    Reply
  4. Ventsislav Krastev

    Hello,

    It seems to me that currently the decryptor works only for versions up to 5.0.2. All versions from 5.0.3 (including), 5.0.4, 5.0.5 are currently not decryptable.

    Reply
  5. Hina

    Hello, I tried using bidefender for decrypting my data which is infected by V4 GrandKrab Virus but it says Initialization Failed. What should I do?

    Reply
  6. Tsetso Mihailov

    Hello Hina,

    that version is supported in BitDefender’s decryptor. It should work. Try contacting BitDefender and tell them about the issue – if anybody knows why that error shows, it would be them.

    Reply
  7. Joehadi

    can you help me ransomeware grandcrab 5.0.4 file infected .artpov

    Reply
  8. carlos

    hola tengo un ransomware de npgtll-descrypt.txt requiere gandcrab v5.1 la ayuda pertinente muchas gracias.

    Reply
  9. ravindra

    How can I Decrypt Gand Crab Ransomware v5.1?

    Reply
  10. Romina

    Hola, tengo mis archivos infestados con GandCrab v5.1, por favor necesito recuperarlos. Hay alguna herramienta que se pueda utilizar o fecha estimativa de tenerla?

    gracias.

    Reply
  11. Duncan

    Bonjour
    Cet article m’a aidé à supprimer le ransomware Gandcrab 5.1 de mon ordinateur, cependant, tous mes fichiers ont été crypté et l’extension (.NJAVJLM) ajoutée à tous mes fichiers. Dans mon cas les solutions de récupération de données proposées ici ne fonctionnent pas. Pouvez-vous m’aider ?

    Merci

    Reply
  12. Hemau

    Fichier crypté par Gandcrab v5.1 avec l’extension .Fiche.
    BitDefender decrytor ne fonctionne pas erreur d’initialisation ECHEC

    Reply
  13. Tsetso Mihailov

    @Joehadi, carlos, ravindra, Romina, Duncan, Hemau – try the decrypptor tool now – it got updated and works with v5.0.4 and 5.1 of GandCrab.

    Reply
  14. Stefan

    verschlüsselte Datei mit der Endung Gandcrab v5.2 .Vaisuu.
    BitDefender decrytor nicht funktioniert Initialisierungsfehlers FAIL

    Reply
  15. Mimbari

    Hallo Sensors Tech Team
    All meine Dateien,Fotos,Videos und Sonstiges wurden am 09. Februar 2019 durch “GandCrab V5.1” verschlüsselt und haben seitdem die Erweiterung “SPKFSF”.Erpresserbrief ist auch vorhanden.Gibt es schon eine Möglichkeit meine Dateien wieder zu entschlüsseln?

    Reply
    1. Tsetso Mihailov

      @Mimbari (Maik Oebels)

      Download the decryption tool linked in this article above. It should decrypt your files.

      Reply
  16. Andy

    My PC was affected GandCrab V5.2 with .rzdeqpr extension in all my files.. any decryptor for V5.2 released ?

    Reply
  17. Lock

    My PC was affected GandCrab V5.2 with .WKNZFU extension in all my files.. any decryptor for V5.2 released ?

    Reply
  18. Luis Enrique

    Saludos, por favor alguien que me ayude con el archivo descifrador , me bajo de la pagina pero al momento de ejecutar no se muestra ni la primera pantalla, alguien me puede facilitar el archivo

    Reply
  19. bledar hasimi

    My PC was affected GandCrab V5.2 with .mafwjqdmoz extension in all my files.. any decryptor for V5.2 released ?

    Reply
    1. Milena Dimitrova

      Hi there,

      Unfortunately, no decrypter so far.

      Reply
  20. sealover1

    My PC was affected GandCrab V5.2 as well this is my 1st time has anything been released for V5.2 yet please?

    Reply
    1. Milena Dimitrova

      Unfortunately, no decryption tool for this version of GandCrab is available at the moment.

      Reply
  21. YOGA

    Hi
    My PC was affected GandCrab V5.2
    all my folder are crypted by .eddnnalkgl
    is there any solution please ?
    thanks

    Reply
    1. Milena Dimitrova

      Hi there,

      Unfortunately, for now there is no decryption for this version of the ransomware. More information about it here: sensorstechforum.com/remove-gandcrab-v5-0-2-ransomware-restore-data

      Reply
  22. YOGA

    hi, milena
    My PC was affected GandCrab V5.2 not 5.02
    all my folder are crypted by .eddnnalkgl
    is there any solution please ?
    is it possible to got a solution in the future ?? i can wait !!
    thanks

    Reply
  23. Alamin Rahman

    My Pc affected by GandCrab V5.2
    my all file and folder encrypted by .iopumlym

    How I solve it. anybody help me, please.

    Reply
  24. Armando

    Mi equipo se infecto con GANDCRAB V5.2, encripto todos los archivos y quedaron con las terminaciones “.dhiwxyc” y “.promoz” hay alguna posibilidad de recuperaciòn? .. Gracias

    Reply
  25. Tsetso Mihailov

    No decryption is available for GANDCRAB V5.2, it will probably take weeks / months for such a solution to become available.

    Reply
  26. Naresh Mandoth

    Hi, My pc was infected with gandcrab 5.2 i need to decrypt files with extension .yyies please help me decrypt it.

    Reply
  27. Firshan

    Hello

    My files are all encrypted with an extension ohdbb. I have no clue how to decrypt please advice this happened just today noon. Please help
    thank you

    Reply
    1. Milena Dimitrova

      It seems that you’ve been infected by a version of GandCrab which is not decryptable for now.

      Reply
  28. Marco

    Is the new GandCrab decryptor out?

    Reply
  29. @lle

    Is the new GandCrab 5.2 decryptor out?

    Reply
  30. Henry Mora

    My files are all encrypted with an extension nesa
    Is there decryptor???
    Thanks

    Reply

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