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.Crypt Virus File (Amnesia Ransomware)

What Is .Crypt Virus File? (Amnesia Ransomware)

crypt virus file amnesia ransomwareA new ransomware infection is circling the web, appending the .crypt file extension to locked files. This new cryptovirus belongs to the Amnesia ransomware family.

The .crypt virus file is currently spread online with the help of various methods, including malicious spam and phishing tricks. Once the ransomware sneaks into a system, it triggers the file encryption process and drops a ransom note with instructions.

Called how_to_back_files.TXT, the ransom note gives information about the cryptovirus and instructs the user how to pay the demanded ransom amount. More details about the ransom note and the ransomware itself are available the article below.

We encourage you to read our article to learn more about the latest .crypt virus and how you can remove it from your computer.

Note that several other ransomware samples have previously used the .crypt file extension: Dharma ransomware, CryptOn ransomware, L4NC34 ransomware.

.crypt Virus File Summary

Name Amnesia ransomware
File Extensions .crypt
Type Ransomware, Cryptovirus
Short Description The ransomware encrypts all files located on infected systems. A ransom note demands a specific amount of money in cryptocurrency to be paid to allegedly recover encrypted files.
Symptoms All your important files are encrypted, and cannot be accessed.
Ransom Demanding Note how_to_back_files.TXT
Distribution Method Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Freeware Installers
Detection Tool See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware

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Malware Removal Tool

Why Are Your Files Encrypted by .crypt Virus File?

In other words, how did this Amnesia ransomware variant sneak into your system to encrypt all your data?

The most popular methods of distributing cryptoviruses such as .crypt virus file include pirated software, landing on scam pages, and malicious email attachments. Let’s examine the most widespread scenarios of getting a ransomware infection:

  • 1.Victims downloaded a suspicious program from an untrustworthy torrent or freeware site.

Keep in mind that most torrent and free download websites may contain unverified files that may expose you to risks of Trojans and ransomware. Why is that? If you have downloaded a trojanized application (an application which contains a hidden Trojan component), it may have contained a backdoor, later utilized by ransomware operators in their campaigns.

  • 2.Victims have opened a malicious email attachment sent to them by a seemingly verified sender.

Malicious spam) operators have their ways to trick you into opening an infected email attachment. Even big companies may fall victims to malware and ransomware, and this usually happens when an employee opens a malicious email attachment and executes the attached file.

The attached file may look like a regular document, but in truth, it contains malicious code that could compromise your system severely. Opening an unexpected email attachment is very dangerous and shouldn’t be done without additional verification.

.crypt Virus File Ransom Note: how_to_back_files.TXT

This is what the ransom note says:

All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC.
Data recovery requires a decoder.
To restore information write to technical support by decoder@cock.li, in case of no answer in 24, write to decoderhelp@cock.li

*Attention!
*Do not attempt to remove the program or run the anti-virus tools
*Attempts to self-decrypting files will result in the loss of your data
*Decoders are not compatible with other users of your data, because each user’s unique encryption key

The quality of the English language indicates that the ransomware operators are not native speakers. We generally advice against following any instructions provided by cybercriminals. Instead, it may be better for you to wait for an official decryption tool. In the meantime, keep your encrypted files at a safe location.

Instructions to guide you through the removal of .crypt (Amnesia) ransomware are available below.

Remove .crypt File Virus

You can remove the malicious intruder by following the removal instructions below the article.
We created these instructions with the sole purpose of helping you to remove as many malicious files as possible.

NOTE! If the manual removal steps don’t work for some reason, we would advise you to do what most cybersecurity experts would do – run a scan with an advanced anti-malware tool on your PC. Such a program aims to automatically detect and delete all malicious files and objects and protect your machine against future infections.

In terms of encryption of files locked by Amnesia, you can refer to the “Try to restore” step, which is part of the removal guide below. Please note that the alternative solutions we have given may not recover all affected files, but you may be able to restore some of your data partially.

Milena Dimitrova

An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim

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  • Step 1
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Step 4
  • Step 5

Step 1: Scan for .crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File

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 .crypt Virus File.

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 .crypt Virus File 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.


.crypt Virus File-FAQ

What is .crypt Virus File Ransomware?

.crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File Infect?

Via several ways..crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File 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 ..crypt Virus File files?

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

Can I Restore "..crypt Virus File" Files?

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

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .crypt Virus File 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 .crypt Virus File 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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