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.EnCrYpTeD File Virus (Restore Files)

This article is created to help you remove the .EnCrYpTeD file extension ransomware from your computer and try to recover encoded files.

A ransomware virus, that uses the .EnCrYpTeD file extension and is coded in Python language has been reported to infect computers and encrypt their data. The encrypted files are no longer able to be opened and this crypto-virus uses a “READ_ME_TO_DECRYPT.txt” ransom note to make sure the user knows the demands of the cyber-criminals, which are to pay the sum of 1 BTC to a bitcoin wallet in order to get the encrypted files decrypted. In case you have become an unfortunate victim of the .EnCrYpTeD ransomware, we recommend reading the following material thoroughly.

Threat Summary

Name

.EnCrYpTeD

Type Ransomware
Short Description The malware encrypts users files using a strong encryption algorithm, making direct decryption possible only via a unique decryption key available to the cyber-criminals.
Symptoms The user witnesses a changed wallpaper with a message to open the ransom instructions where he or she is asked to pay a hefty ransom fee to get the data back.
Distribution Method Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner.
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User Experience Join our forum to Discuss .EnCrYpTeD.
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.

.EnCrYpTeD File Virus – How Does It Infect

In order to cause an infection on a certain machine, the .EnCrYpTeD file virus might use malicious e-mail attachments that are usually sent out via several different e-mail accounts that are not blocked as spam.

The messages accompanying those e-mail attachments usually have deceptive messages that trick the user he or she may have purchased something or there is suspicious activity on his bank account. The attachment usually pretends to be an Invoice or another important document. However, it is the file from which the infection process is trigger, after it is opened.

.EnCrYpTeD File Virus – Further Analysis

Once an infection is triggered, the .EnCrYpTeD ransomware may drop multiple files on the compromised computer of the user. The virus also uses multiple different techniques to conceal the files from any protection software. The payload of the .EnCrYpTeD ransomware may be located in multiple different Windows directories:

After the payload is dropped, the .EnCrYpTeD Ransomware may perform multiple different activities, such as modify the Windows Registry editor, more specifically the Run and RunOnce sub-keys in it. This is done with the purpose of adding the setting to run the malicious executable of the .EnCrYpTeD virus, which is detected as ransomware.exe at virustotal:

As soon as the virus is activated, it begins to immediately encrypt important files on the compromised computers by it. There files are reported to be documents, pictures, image data files, files associated with often used programs and other data.

After the encryption process of this virus is complete, it renders the files no longer able to be opened. This is achievable by most likely using AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) algorithm. The bad news Is that the files encrypted by this ransomware infection also have changed names, besides the .EnCrYpTeD file extension added to them. They may look like the following:

In addition to this, the ransomware changes the wallpaper to a black image with a red text, which asks to open the ransom note file:

“Attention!
Your files have been encrypted!!!
Follow instructions in READ_ME_TO_DECRYPT.txt to recover your data”

The ransom note is named READ_ME_TO_DECRYPT.txt and has the following message to the victims of the virus:

“Your files have been locked with AES strong encryption.
How to decrypt your files:
1. Send one bitcoin to: {crooks address}
2. After sending bitcoin, send email to random_anonymous@gmail.com containing the following code:
{custom code}
3. After receiving bitcoin and required code, you will be given your decrypt password.
4. Find to_decrypt.py, double-click, enter the password. Decryption requires Python installed.
You have 72 hours to comply or your decrypt password will be permanently destroyed!
GOOD LUCK!!”

In any event, paying the ransom of the .EnCrYpTeD virus is highly inadvisable. Instead, it is recommended to remove this ransomware completely.

Remove .EnCrYpTeD File Virus and Try Getting the Files Back

For the removal of the .EnCrYpTeD ransomware, malware researchers recommend taking advantage of the removal instructions below. They are created to help you remove this ransomware methodologically. However, If manual removal is difficult for you, advices are to focus on performing the removal automatically by downloading an advanced anti-malware program which will make sure the removal is permanent and complete.

After having removed this ransomware from your computer, recommendations are to focus on trying to restore the files that have been encoded by this virus. One way is to try and use the alternative file recovery tools that we have suggested back in step “2. Restore files encrypted by .EnCrYpTeD Virus”. They are not a full guarantee you will get your data back, but you may get at least some of the data back by following them.

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 .EnCrYpTeD 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 .EnCrYpTeD 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 .EnCrYpTeD 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 .EnCrYpTeD 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 .EnCrYpTeD

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 .EnCrYpTeD.

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 .EnCrYpTeD 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.


.EnCrYpTeD-FAQ

What is .EnCrYpTeD Ransomware?

.EnCrYpTeD 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 .EnCrYpTeD 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 .EnCrYpTeD Infect?

Via several ways..EnCrYpTeD 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 .EnCrYpTeD 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 ..EnCrYpTeD files?

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

Can I Restore "..EnCrYpTeD" Files?

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

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