Security researchers have detected a new iteration of the CrySiS Ransomware which processes victim files with the .gamma extension. This new version follows the well-known behavior patterns and can cause many dangers to the infected hosts. It is based on the same modular platform and the criminals can create custom copies depending on the targets.
Our article provides an overview of the virus operations and it also may be helpful in attempting to remove the virus.
Threat Summary
| Name | CrySiS Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files by placing the .gamma extension on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and leave a ransom note with payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss CrySiS 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. |
.gamma Ransomware – Update February 2019
In February 2019 it has become known that the attacks of the .gamma Files Virus (a Dharma/CrySiS ransomware variant) are increasing. The attacks successfully exploit the RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) on systems that have it open and used. Disabling RDP and tweaking it a bit is enough to prevent access for the ransomware from this attack vector.
CrySiS Ransomware – Distribution Tactics
The CrySiS ransomware is being distributed using various tactics. The hackers behind it seem to have launched a global network campaign against computer users of all types — both individual users, companies and enterprise clients. A common tactic is to use a SPAM email campaign directly against the targets incorporating phishing tactics. They are designed to appear as messages that have been sent by popular Internet services or sites that the users might use. The emails can either contain the virus files (or payload carriers) as direct attachment or they are linked in the body contents.
A similar strategy is to construct download sites — they represent fake download sites, landing pages and software Internet portals.
These two methods are used to distribute the infected payload carriers of which there are two popular types:
- Documents — The hackers can embed the virus installation code in payload carriers such as popular document types: rich text documents, spreadsheets, databases and presentations. When they are opened by the victims a message prompt will appear asking the users to enable the built-in macros. If this action is allowed the virus installation will commence.
- Software Installers — The criminals behind the CrySiS ransomware may integrate the virus into application installers of popular software. The criminals typically choose programs that are chosen by end-users — creativity suites, system utilities and productivity solutions.
In certain cases the CrySiS ransomware files and the made payloads can be spread over file-sharing networks such as BitTorrent. These systems are widely used to distribute pirate content or legal creative products. The underground trackers primarily spread software and applications which are often CrySiS ransomware strains.
Advanced infection methods can include the set up of attack campaigns via browser hijackers. They are set up to be compatible with the most popular web browsers. The plugins are uploaded to their relevant repositories. The relevant descriptions often include promises of enhancing the browsers or adding new functionality. When they are installed the typical behavior pattern would be to modify the default settings in order to redirect the users to a hacker-controlled page. This is done by manipulating the default home page, search engine and new tabs page. When this step is complete the ransomware infection will follow.
CrySiS Ransomware – In-Depth Analysis
The CrySiS ransomware follows the set behavior pattern of previous iterations. The infiltrations begin with an information gathering module which is set to automatically harvest strings that can be categorized into two main groups:
- Personal Data — The hackers will acquire information that can be used to expose the identity of the victims. A data set can contain any of the following strings: their name, address, phone number, location, interests and etc.
- Campaign Metrics — The other CrySiS ransomware data extraction category is related to metrics that can be used to optimize the attack campaigns. The bulk of the hijacked data is made up of a reports of the installed hardware reports, user settings and operating system values.
This particular ransomware family can also be identified as Dharma.
The next module that can take advantage of the hijacked data is the stealth protection one. It is used to protect the CrySiS ransomware from security software that can interfere with the virus operations. The list includes anti-virus engines, virtual machine hosts and debug environments. Depending on the exact configuration the applications themselves may be deleted.
At this stage the CrySiS ransomware will have full control of the host system — the modular engine will be able to hook up to system processes, create ones of its own and set up administrative privileges for them.
Many popular virus versions choose to continue with the Windows Registry modifications — both changing the already existing ones and creating new entries belonging to the virus code. Note that if any operating system related strings are modified then this can cause overall performance issues while changes to individual applications may render certain functions non-available. The creation of custom entries is related to another technique — the persistent threat installation. Such malware infections will be started automatically once the computer is powered on and may additionally block access to the boot recovery menu.
Further malicious activity my include the removal of sensitive data such as System Restore Points and Shadow Volume Copies which are important when restoring the computers. If this action is done then the victim users will need to resort to a professional backup recovery solution, refer to our instructions for mode details on this.
Another popular virus step is the deployment of a Trojan module. Like other similar viruses the mechanism remains the same, the client will establish a secure connection to a hacker-controlled address. This will allow the hackers to spy on the victims in real-time, as well as take over control of their machines and deploy other threats. Some of the popular payloads that are dropped include other viruses or cryptocurrency miners. They have become very popular of late as they can process complex calculations and when the results are reported to the servers digital currency will be transferred over to the hacker’s wallets automatically.
As this is a new version of the CrySiS Ransomware family we anticipate that the various modifications of it can be customized in each target campaign. Newer versions are expected as the CrySiS main engine code can be acquired through the hacker underground forums.
CrySiS Ransomware – Encryption Process
There is no large difference in the encryption engine operations of this CrySiS ransomware strain in comparison to previous ones. Sensitive user data is encrypted with a powerful cipher and governed by a list of target file type extensions. The following example data may be affected:
- Archives
- Backups
- Documents
- Images
- Music
- Videos
Like previous versions the ransomware will mark the processed files with a specific extension — “.id-%ID%.[bebenrowan@aol.com].gamma.
This means that the the files will contain the unique user ID which is made of information harvested through the data stealer module. As always the .gamma extension files will also be mentioned in the special ransomware note created in the FILES ENCRYPTED.txt file.
Remove CrySiS Ransomware Virus and Restore .gamma Files
If your computer got infected with the CrySiS ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for CrySiS Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CrySiS 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by CrySiS 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 CrySiS Ransomware 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 CrySiS Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CrySiS 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:
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 CrySiS 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.
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.
CrySiS Ransomware-FAQ
What is CrySiS Ransomware Ransomware?
CrySiS 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 CrySiS 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 CrySiS Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.CrySiS 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 CrySiS 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 .CrySiS Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CrySiS 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 .CrySiS Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CrySiS Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CrySiS 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 CrySiS 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 CrySiS Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CrySiS 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 CrySiS 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 CrySiS Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CrySiS 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 CrySiS 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.
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