This article aims to show how to remove Cryptolocker 3 virus and restore .cryptolocker encrypted files.
One of the olders crypto-viruses, Cryptolocker ransomware has come up with a 3rd iteration which encrypts user files with a strong encryption adding the .cryptolocker file extension to them. The virus demands 0.5 BTC from the victims to pay in order to get their encrypted files back to normal again. However, it is strongly advisable not to pay any ransom requested by this cryptovirus and instead read our instructions on how to remove this Cryptolocker iteration from your computer and try to restore the encrypted files.
Threat Summary
Name |
Cryptolocker 3 |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using a strong encryption algorithm, making direct decryption possible only via a unique decryption key available to the cyber-criminals. |
Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions” to pay the ransom in BitCoin. Changed file names and the file-extension .cryptolocker has been used. |
Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Cryptolocker 3. |
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. |
How Does Cryptolocker 3 Infect
For it to be successfully spread, the Cryptolocker 3 virus uses the conventional approaches for most malware infections. The malware may undertake an unconventional approach meaning that it takes advantage of malicious e-mail attachments that can infect a computer via a set of tools used, such as:
- Malware obfuscators.
- Malicious exploit kits.
- JavaScript.
- Malicious macros embedded in .pdf or Microsoft Office documents.
After the infection has been caused, the malware may automatically connect to the cyber-criminals’ command and control servers after which cause an infection via the download of the Cryptolocker 3’s payload. The payload may consist of main executable responsible for file encryption and in addition to it additional module files. The files may be located in the following Windows folders:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Local%
.Cryptolocker File Virus – Post-Infection Activity
After having infected the user, the virus may modify the following registry keys, adding registry values with custom data in them, to most likely run the encryption process on system startup:
→ 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
After this has been completed, the virus may immediately begin to encrypt the files on the compromised computers by injecting malicious code in legitimate processes or starting it’s own encryption processes. This procedure results in the encryption of important for the user files, like:
- Documents.
- Audio files.
- Microsoft Office Files.
- Adobe Reader .PDF’s.
- Videos.
- Pictures.
- Database files.
- Virtual drives.
After the encryption process has completed, the Cryptolocker 3 malware begins to perform several different activities, such as changing the file extension on the encrypted files to the following:
After having completed encryption, the Cryptolocker virus may display a lockscreen, containing the following ransom message:
Remove Cryptolocker 3 and Get .Cryptolocker Encrypted Files Back
The bottom line is that the cyber-criminals who are behind this malware aim for one thing only – to obtain your money by extorting you for your files. Fortunately, malware researchers are tirelessly working to battle against ransomware and they often come up with free decryptors. In the meantime, they advise not to pay any ransom and to back up the encrypted files.
To fully remove Cryptolocker from your computer, recommendations are to guide yourself by the malware removal instructions posted below. In case you are having difficulties in manually locating the malicious files created by Cryptolocker, advises are also to use the aid of an anti-malware program that will make sure this specific threat is fully eliminated in a safe manner.
After having removed Cryptolocker, advices are to save the encrypted files on a removable drive or in the cloud and to make copies of them. Then, we recommend trying alternative methods to restore them, like the ones suggested by us in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Cryptolocker” below. They are in no way 100% guaranteed to succeed, but these methods may be solution for at least some of your files, at least until a free decryptor is released, which, if happens, we will update this article.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Cryptolocker 3 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Cryptolocker 3 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Cryptolocker 3
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Cryptolocker 3.
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 Cryptolocker 3 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.
Cryptolocker 3-FAQ
What is Cryptolocker 3 Ransomware?
Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 Infect?
Via several ways.Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 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 .Cryptolocker 3 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Cryptolocker 3 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 .Cryptolocker 3 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Cryptolocker 3" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Cryptolocker 3 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 Cryptolocker 3 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.
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