A new piece of ransomware, dubbed CryptoFortress, has been reported by French malware researcher Kafeine a few days ago. The threat appears to be similar to the infamous TorrentLocker ransomware, but CryptoFortress is capable of encrypting files over network shares even in the cases when they are not mapped to a drive letter.
CryptoFortress – Infiltration and Encryption Process
The CryptoFortress ransomware is distributed via spam email messages, fake Flash updates, rogue media players, etc.
Once active, the infection starts encrypting all files on the compromised machine by adding a .ftrtss extension and demands a ransom of one Bitcoin (approximately US$300) for their decryption. The victim is allowed to decrypt two files up to 500kb as proof that the rest of the files will be restored as soon as the required fee has been paid. Even though this is supposed to serve as a guarantee that you will have your data back, experts recommend against paying the ransom because this way you support cyber criminals in their malicious activities.
The best way to protect your system against ransomware infections is to keep your anti-virus solutions updated and back up your files on a regular basis. Never download attachments to emails sent from unknown sources and carefully choose the websites you download software from. Keep in mind that P2P networks can also be used to bundle CryptoFortress with other files.
The CryptoFortress ransomware employs AES encryption to encrypt the following types of files: .blob, .rar, .doc, .odb, .cas, .esp, .pdf, .lvl, .gdb, .asset, .wma, .avi, .txt, .m3u, .mcgame, .png, .jpeg, etc.
In order to erase all Shadow Volume Copies so that the victim would be unable to restore the data from them, CryptoFortress issues the following command:
→vssadmin delete shadows /all /quiet
The Ransom Message
Upon successful infiltration and after encrypting the victim’s data, CryptoFortress creates a file – READ IF YOU WANT YOUR FILES BACK.html. The ransom note provides the user with detailed instructions on how the payment should be handled. The message contains links to a TOR C&C server where the victim can find the address the ransom must be sent to.
What Makes CryptoFortress Different Than Other Ransomware?
The known ransomware infections so far have been retrieving a list of drive letters on the affected machine and then encrypt the files on them. So, network shares on one and the same network would be secure as soon as they aren’t mapped to a drive letter. What makes CryptoFortress unique is the fact that the threat also tries to enumerate the open network SMB shares, and then encrypt the ones found. CryptoFortress’ new ability is yet another reason to secure your shared folders properly.
There is no doubt that encrypting non-mapped network shares turns CryptoFortress into a huge problem for network administrators. From now on, backup strategies will include the use of drive rotation, which automatically makes cloud backups the preferred option if you want to keep your files away from ransomware.
How To Remove CryptoFortress from Your PC?
The current analysis shows that no tools so far are capable of decrypting the files affected by CryptoFortress. The manual bellow will help you remove CryptoFortress by entering your computer in Safe Mode, however, your compromised data will remain encrypted.
This article will be updated as soon as reliable information about the decryption process is issued.
Spy Hunter FREE scanner will only detect the threat. If you want the threat to be automatically removed, you need to purchase the full version of the anti-malware tool. Find Out More About SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
2. Remove CryptoFortress automatically with Spy Hunter Malware – Removal Tool.
To clean your computer with the award-winning software Spy Hunter –
It is highly recommended to run a FREE scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for CryptoFortress with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CryptoFortress.
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 CryptoFortress 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.
CryptoFortress-FAQ
What is CryptoFortress Ransomware?
CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress Infect?
Via several ways.CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress 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 .CryptoFortress files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CryptoFortress 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 .CryptoFortress files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CryptoFortress" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CryptoFortress 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 CryptoFortress 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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