The ransomware CryptXXX was such a huge success for cyber criminals that others made a copycat version of it. The copycat is called CrypMIC, and it utilizes the same distribution method, while also using the same ransom note and payment sites. The biggest difference between them is that CrypMIC does not encrypt files with a specific extension and uses another encryption algorithm.
To see how to remove the ransomware virus and what you could apply to recover your files, you should read the article carefully.
Threat Summary
| Name | CrypMIC |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | A ransomware that imitates CryptXXX ransomware. Encrypts your files, but does not put any special extension to them compared to CryptXXX. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware encrypts files while it searches drives from D to Z along with any external or network drives. Uses the same ransom note and payment sites as CryptXXX. |
| Distribution Method | Malvertising, Compromised Websites, Exploit Kits |
| Detection Tool |
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| User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss CrypMIC. |
| 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. |
CrypMIC Ransomware – Distribution
CrypMIC ransomware uses an exploit kit for its distribution. The ransomware uses the Neutrino exploit kit as its entry point – same as CryptXXX. Other exploit kits could be used for distribution in the future – with malware campaigns from compromised sites or hijacked sub-domains. For now Neutrino is one of the most effective exploit kits and TrendMicro labs reported that it spreads the following ransomware families as well:
TeslaCrypt was also being delivered by Neutrino earlier this year, but as its authors released the master decryption key, and thus the attention has shifted to CryptXXX.
The CrypMIC ransomware has its payload stored in a .DLL file with a random name. Beware that this makes it easy to spread and besides the exploit kit, spam emails, social media and file sharing networks might be used as a delivery way as well. Be very careful in opening files, links and emails of unknown origin or that seem suspicious.
CrypMIC Ransomware – Technical Description
The CrypMIC ransomware is a copycat of CryptXXX. However, it has quite a few differences. For instance, it does not apply a persistence mechanism such as an auto-start feature. Another interesting thing is that it does not feature a lockscreen. However, it does employ a check routine for the presence of any Virtual Machines being run and sends that data over its C&C (Command and Control) server.
CrypMIC encrypts files with a strong algorithm, but does not put any extension to the encrypted files. After encryption is complete the following files are created:
- README.TXT
- README.HTML
- README.BMP
The files are almost 100% the same as those of CryptXXX, as names and content, and serve the same purpose. The .html file is made just after the file encryption is finished. The file launches a browser to display the .html code. This makes the links inside clickable. This file makes copies of itself in directories with encrypted files. The file also has a .TXT and a .BMP version. The latter of the two is a picture which is set as a desktop background, but the screen does not get locked.
You can see the .BMP file right here:
We removed the hyperlinks from the image for safety purposes but know that they lead to the same payment sites for decryption as the CryptXXX virus. The links may differ per infected users, but will lead to those domains hosted by the original ransomware owners.
The file displayed above reads the following:
NOT YOUR LANGUAGE? USE https://translate.google.com
What happened to your files ?
All of your files were protected by a strong encryption with RSA4096
More information about the encryption keys using RSA4096 can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RSA_(cryptosystem)How did this happen ?
!!! Specially for your PC was generated personal RSA4096 Key , both public and private.
!!! ALL YOUR FILES were encrypted with the public key, which has been transferred to your computer via the Internet.
!!! Decrypting of your files is only possible with the help of the private key and decrypt program , which is on our Secret ServerWhat do I do ?
So , there are two ways you can choose: wait for a _miracle_ and get _your_ PRICE DOUBLED! Or start obtaining *BITCOIN NOW! , and restore _YOUR_ _DATA_ easy way
If You have really valuable _DATA_, you better _NOT_ _WASTE_ _YOUR_ _TIME_, because there is _NO_ other way to get your files, except make a paymentYour personal ID:
For more specific instructions, please visit your personal home page, there are a few different addresses pointing to your page below: [Link to a site page]
If for some reasons the addresses are not availablweropie, follow these steps:
1 – Download and install tor-browser: https://www.torproject.org/projects/torbrowser.html.en
2 – Video instruction: [Link to a site page] 3 – After a successful installation, run the browser
4 – Type in the address bar: [Link to a site page] 5 – Follow the instructions on the site
Following any of the links provided in that note, and you will see how a page such as the following will load:
If you enter your ID number will get you inside the payment system for the decryption service. There, you will see the following instructions:
CrypMIC ransomware asks the price of 1.2 BitCoins, to be paid as ransom. That is nearly 800 US dollars, which is very high as an initial payment. You will be given a period of 4 days to make the payment. If you don’t pay in that time frame, the price doubles and becomes 2.4 Bitcoins. No threats are made that your files can get lost after time.
Do NOT pay these criminals. CrypMIC ransomware is a copycat so you don’t know what will happen with your money if you do. Paying the ransomware is not a good option because the decrypter might not work as in the original ransomware variant.
The ransomware locks over 900 different file types. Some of the files that CrypMIC ransomware seeks to encrypt have these extensions:
→.3dm, .aes, .ARC, .asc, .asf, .asm, .asp, .avi, .bak, .bat, .bmp, .brd, .cgm, .class, .cmd, .cpp, .crt, .csr, .CSV, .dbf, .dch, .dcu, .dif, .dip, .djv, .djvu, .doc, .DOC, .docb, .docm, .docx, .DOT, .dotm, .dotx, .eml, .fla, .flv, .frm, .gif, .gpg, .hwp, .ibd, .jar, .java, .jpeg, .jpg, .key, .lay, .lay6, .ldf, .max, .mdb, .mdf, .mid, .mkv, .mml, .mov, .mp3, .mp4, .mpeg, .mpg, .ms11, .MYD, .MYI, .NEF, .obj, .odb, .odg, .odp, .ods, .odt, .otg, .otp, .ots, .ott, .PAQ, .pas, .pdf, .pem, .php, .png, .pot, .potm, .potx, .ppam, .pps, .ppsm, .ppsx, .PPT, .pptm, .pptx, .psd, .qcow2, .rar, .raw, .RTF, .sch, .sldx, .slk, .sql, .SQLITE3, .SQLITEDB, .stc, .std, .sti, .stw, .svg, .swf, .sxc, .sxd, .sxi, .sxm, .sxw, .tar, .tar, .bz2, .tbk, .tgz, .tif, .tiff, .txt, .uop, .uot, .vbs, .vdi, .vmdk, .vmx, .vob, .wav, .wks, .wma, .wmv, .xlc, .xlm, .xls, .XLS, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xlt, .xltm, .xltx, .xlw, .xml, .zip, .zipx
The encryption algorithm used here is AES 256-Bit, although the ransom note states it is RSA-4096. After the process, the virus sends information about the current state of the system and the result of encryption to its C&C server. It uses the TCP protocol on the 443 port. Over the C&C the ransomware can also do a check if a VM (Virtual Machine) is running and send that data back.
CrypMIC ransomware deletes Shadow Volume Copies with the Vssadmin in Windows.
To prevent ransomware (and other viruses) from infecting you again, you can refer to the ransomware prevention tips thread in our forums. Continue to read, to find out what you can try to do about a possible file decryption.
Remove CrypMIC Ransomware and Restore Encrypted Files
If your computer got infected with CrypMIC, you should have some experience in malware removal. You should get rid of CrypMIC ransomware as soon as you can because it will keep encrypting files found not only on your computer but the network your PC is connected to, as well. The recommended action to do is to remove this virus and follow the step-by-step instructions manual provided down here.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for CrypMIC with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CrypMIC.
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 CrypMIC 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.
CrypMIC-FAQ
What is CrypMIC Ransomware?
CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC Infect?
Via several ways.CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC 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 .CrypMIC files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CrypMIC 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 .CrypMIC files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CrypMIC" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CrypMIC 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 CrypMIC 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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