New version of the Razy ransomware virus, known by the name Krypte has been released and has begun encrypting files with what appears to be an AES cipher. The virus has been created exclusively for German users. The virus aims primarily to encrypt the files on the compromised computer and demand a ransom payoff for the successful decryption of the files it has encrypted. Everyone who has been infected by this ransomware virus should immediately take precautions and remove it from their computer. In case the virus has successfully encrypted your files, it is strongly advisable to try alternative methods such as the ones after this article to decipher your files while we update it with a free decryptor when released.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Krypte |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users’ files using AES encryption, changing the wallpaper with its ransom message. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom messages and “instructions” on how to make a payoff. |
| Distribution Method | It may spread via malicious PDFs and an Infostealer featured in spam e-mail messages. |
| Detection Tool |
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Krypte 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. |
Krypte Ransomware – How Does It Spread
For a high infection rate, similar to Razy, Krypte may use a set of tools to self-replicate over the web. One of those tools may be an Exploit Kit which can cause a cyber-infection via running obfuscated from any security software installed on the victim’s device. Besides this a JavaScript may be used to cause a file-less infection as well. Such Kits and scripts may be uploaded in the form of e-mail attachments as executable or .JS type of files in archives pretending to be important files in e-mail spam. However, they may also be uploaded to malicious domains that may cause a drive-by-download after a malicious redirects. Whatever the case may, be the most likely method of distribution of the Krypte ransomware is via e-mail, more specifically, phishing e-mails, like the example below.
Krypte Ransomware In Detail
As soon as the exploit kit has been activated on the compromised computer, it may initiate a download of the malicious files, belonging to Krypte. The malicious files may be different types and may have different functions as well:
→ exe, .bat, .vbs, .js, .cmd, .dll, .tmp
Krypte may drop the files with different names in key Windows folders, usually targeted by ransomware viruses, such as the following:
After this has been done, the Krypte malware may initiate files that set it’s encryption module to run on Windows startup. The targeted Windows keys for this are reported to be the Run and RunOnce keys located in subkeys of HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and HKEY_CURRENT_USER.
As soon as Krypte begins encrypting user files, it may scan for the following expansions in order to encipher them:
“PNG .PSD .PSPIMAGE .TGA .THM .TIF .TIFF .YUV .AI .EPS .PS .SVG .INDD .PCT .PDF .XLR .XLS .XLSX .ACCDB .DB .DBF .MDB .PDB .SQL .APK .APP .BAT .CGI .COM .EXE .GADGET .JAR .PIF .WSF .DEM .GAM .NES .ROM .SAV CAD Files .DWG .DXF GIS Files .GPX .KML .KMZ .ASP .ASPX .CER .CFM .CSR .CSS .HTM .HTML .JS .JSP .PHP .RSS .XHTML. DOC .DOCX .LOG .MSG .ODT .PAGES .RTF .TEX .TXT .WPD .WPS .CSV .DAT .GED .KEY .KEYCHAIN .PPS .PPT .PPTX ..INI .PRF Encoded Files .HQX .MIM .UUE .7Z .CBR .DEB .GZ .PKG .RAR .RPM .SITX .TAR.GZ .ZIP .ZIPX .BIN .CUE .DMG .ISO .MDF .TOAST .VCD SDF .TAR .TAX2014 .TAX2015 .VCF .XML Audio Files .AIF .IFF .M3U .M4A .MID .MP3 .MPA .WAV .WMA Video Files .3G2 .3GP .ASF .AVI .FLV .M4V .MOV .MP4 .MPG .RM .SRT .SWF .VOB .WMV 3D .3DM .3DS .MAX .OBJ R.BMP .DDS .GIF .JPG ..CRX .PLUGIN .FNT .FON .OTF .TTF .CAB .CPL .CUR .DESKTHEMEPACK .DLL .DMP .DRV .ICNS .ICO .LNK .SYS .CFG”Source:fileinfo.com
When it encrypts user files, Krypte may use an Advanced Encryption Standard cipher, which changes the structure of the files so that they become un-openable by any type of software. To notify the user that his only option may seem to be to pay ransom money in BitCoin, Krypte uses the following ransom note, which it may set as a wallpaper:
→“Hallo! Ich bin Krypte! Eine Ransomware! Ich habe deine Dokumente, Musik, Bilder und andere Wichtige dateien mit einer AES Verschlusselung Verschlusselt. Wenn du deine Daten wiederhaben willst dann Befolge Bitte diese Anweisungen:
Kaufe eine 15-20 Euro Paysafe-Karte und gebe diesen Code in die Textbox Unten ein.
Trage deine Email-Adresse in die Andere Textbox ein und drucke auf Weiter.
Wenn der Paysafekarten-code richtig sein sollte, Bekommst du an deine Email einen Key + Entfern und Entschlusselungsprogramm.
An deiner steller wurde ich kein Antivierenprogrammm laufen lassen und nicht versuchen, diesen Virus zun enfernen. Dieses Progrmm ist deine einzige moglichkeit, deine Daten zuruckzubekommen.
Dein Private-Key wird nach 72h von unserem Server geloscht.
Viel Erfolg :)”
English Translation by Google Translate:
“Hello! I am crypt! A ransomware! I have your documents, music, pictures and other important files with an AES encrypted algorithm. If you want to back your data have then Follow these instructions Please:
Buy a 15-20 Euro Paysafe card and give this code in the text box below a.
Fill in your email address in the Other text box and prints Next.
If the Pay safe card code should be right, Do you get your email address to a Key + eliminator and Entschlusselungsprogramm.
The Upside steller I was running no Antivirus programand not try this virus unregistering ton. This Progrmm is your only way to zuruckzubekommen your data.
Your private key is deleted after 72 hours from our server.
I wish you success :)”
Krypte Ransomware – Conclusion and Removal and File Restoration Instructions
As a bottom line, according to ransomware researchers from Malware Hunter Team, this particular ransom virus is just as junk as the previous Razy variant was. But this does not mean you should take it lightly. First, it is advisable to make a backup of the encrypted files after which use the instructions after this article to remove the Krypte virus completely from your computer.
In order to restore your files, it is NOT advisable to pay the ransom and NOT advisable to try and use third-party decrypters that are not made for this specific variant. This is why we recommend to attempt the instructions in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Krypte” below with extreme caution and backup the encrypted files before trying 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: Scan for Krypte with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Krypte 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 Krypte 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 Krypte 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 Krypte
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Krypte.
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 Krypte 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.
Krypte-FAQ
What is Krypte Ransomware?
Krypte 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 Krypte 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 Krypte Infect?
Via several ways.Krypte 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 Krypte 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 .Krypte files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Krypte 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 .Krypte files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Krypte" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Krypte 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 Krypte 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 Krypte ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Krypte 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 Krypte 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 Krypte Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Krypte 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 Krypte 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.
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