22btc Ransomware
A ransomware threat called 22btc has been spotted in the wild. Analyses of the code of this malicious software reveal that it is developed to corrupt computer operating systems with the goal to reach valuable personal files stored on the drives. The end goal of 22btc ransomware is to blackmail its victims into paying a hefty ransom fee to hackers.
An infection with this ransomware prevents people from opening their essential files. The .22btc files are encoded with a strong cipher. A ransom note states that all victims should contact hackers as soon as possible. Hackers, in turn, expect that victims will send them a requested amount of money in a required cryptocurrency. This becomes clear by the ransom messages which 22btc ransomware creates on all PCs it infects.
Our advice is to skip following hackers’ instructions as they guarantee nothing. Instead, see how to remove the 22btc virus from your PC and try to restore .22btc files with some alternative methods.
22btc Virus Summary
| Name | 22btc also known as Dharma, CrySiS, Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E, TrojWare.Win32.Crysis.D@6sd9xy, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Crusis.to, Ransom:Win32/Wadhrama!hoa |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Ransom Demanding Notes | FILES ENCRYPTED.txt and a pop-up window |
| Malicious Extensions | .id-number.[22btc@tuta.io].22btc |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt valuable files stored on the infected computer and then demands a ransom for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with three specific extensions. Ransom message appears as desktop wallpaper. Another one stored by a text file appears somewhere on the system. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Fake Software Updates, Corrupted Sites |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
More Details About 22btc Virus Attack
An attack with the nasty 22btc virus begins when its payload file runs on a target computer system. The methods used for distributing this file tend to email spam campaigns, software cracks, fake software update notifications, freeware with compromised installers, and malicious web links. Each of them can easily trick you into downloading malicious content without suspecting that it will infect your computer.
So the moment you allow 22btc to run on your machine, it will initiate a long sequence of malicious changes in the background of all other running apps. The problematic code of this ransomware enables it to compromise basic security settings. As a result, it reaches target types of files and encrypts their code with a sophisticated cipher algorithm. 22btc may encode personal files of all types.
- Audio files.
- Video files.
- Document files.
- Image files.
- Backup files.
- Banking credentials, etc.
You cannot miss noticing files encrypted by 22btc ransomware as they all have three additional extensions appended to their original names. For example, the file blackCat.jpg will appear as a broken file with the name
blackCat.jpg.id-776G5T44.[22btc@tuta.io].22btc where the first malicious extension is your ID number, the second is the hackers’ email address, and the third is the name of the ransomware.
It became clear that 22btc is a cryptovirus based on the infamous Dharma/CrySiS ransomware code. It has lots of predecessors with various strange names such as 2021, Fresh, and WSHLP. The main differences are the extensions they use to mark corrupted files and the cybercriminals’ email addresses. 22btc is controlled by fraudsters who use the emails 22btc@tuta.io and 21btc@cock.li. These emails help them to communicate with their victims and extort money from them.
Both could be found in the ransom messages created by the 22btc virus. The main message appears as a pop-up window on PCs infected with the threat. Here is a copy of its text message:
YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
Don’t worry,you can return all your files!
If you want to restore them, follow this link:email 22btc@tuta.io YOUR ID –
If you have not been answered via the link within 12 hours, write to us by e-mail:21btc@cock.liAttention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third-party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
And here is a copy of the text file version of the ransom message (FILES ENCRYPTED.txt) that is stored somewhere on your PC:
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
write email 22btc@tuta.io or 21btc@cock.li
Apparently, these messages aim to trick you into buying and transferring cryptocurrency to hackers’ wallet. We know that the decryption of your .22btc files is of paramount importance, but we still do not recommend that you act according to hackers’ expectations.
Remove 22btc Ransomware
The so-called 22btc ransomware is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security to encrypt personal files. Hence, you could securely use the infected system after removing all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. The steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below will help you with the complete removal process. Beware that manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps, navigate to the guide’s automatic part. It is also worth mentioning that personal data remains encrypted even after the complete removal of 22btc ransomware. Its removal only prevents it from causing further encryptions and security issues.
Step 5 from our 22btc ransomware removal guide presents alternative data recovery methods that may be efficient for the recovery of encrypted files. Beware that you should make copies of all encrypted files and save them on a flash drive, for example, before the beginning of the recovery process.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for 22btc Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall 22btc 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 22btc 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 22btc 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 22btc Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by 22btc 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 22btc 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.
22btc Virus-FAQ
What is 22btc Virus Ransomware?
22btc 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 22btc 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 22btc Virus Infect?
Via several ways.22btc 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 22btc 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 .22btc Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .22btc 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 .22btc Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".22btc Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .22btc 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 22btc 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 22btc Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .22btc 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 22btc 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 22btc Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this 22btc 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 22btc 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.