Cryptoshocker, carrying a name familiar to the notoroious Cryptolocker has recently started causing problems more and more often. The .locked file extension is added and an extremely powerful encryption cipher has been used to encode users’ files. Infected users are extorted to pay the hefty sum of 200 dollars in BitCoins to the cyber-crimials. This is done by using anonymous Tor networking communication. Everyone infected should not pay any ransom and wait for a decryptor to be released by malware researchers in the near future (we will post a web link here if it has been created).
In the meantime it is strongly advised to remove the ransomware and try alternative methods for file restoration, like the ones in this article.
Stay tuned with this article for more information about the ransomware to come.
Threat Summary
Name | Cryptoshocker |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files with the AES cipher and asks a ransom payment of 200$ for decryption. |
Symptoms | Files are encrypted and become inaccessible. The .locked extension is added. The ransomware drops an “Attention.url” file on the desktop of the user which contains payoff conducting instructions. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Cryptoshocker Ransomware. |
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. |
Cryptoshocker Ransomware’s Distribution Methods
In order to infect users, Cryptoshocker may use two widely employed techniques by ransomware viruses nowadays – an Exploit Kit or a malicious JavaScript infection.
Such infections may be spread via URLs, which are featured in the body of spammed e-mail messages. The messages are usually disguised as a convincing service or product users are usually registered in. When the user opens the malicious URL, he or she may experience a so-called browser redirect which can lead successful infection.
Cryptoshocker Ransomware In Detail
As soon as it`s launched in the victim`s computer, Cryptoshocker may employ a malicious executable on several usually targeted Windows locations:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %User’s Profile%
- %My Documents%
- %Desktop%
- %Windows%
The file may be obfuscated and it’s name may resemble a legitimate Windows service or be completely random, for example:
- windows-update.exe
- 32r209239032r.exe
- svchost.exe
- wsus.dll
After being dropped, the file belonging to Cryptoshocker may begin to encrypt files with a powerful AES cypher. At this moment it is not clear as to what strength of AES has been used by Cryptoshocker’s creators but it is widely believed that its strenght may vary from 128 to 512 bit encryption. An RSA cipher may be used to encrypt the AES decryption key and send it to the cyber-criminal’s servers by connecting to them. The encrypted types of files by Cryptoshocker may be:
- Documents.
- Records.
- Photos.
- Audio files.
- Videos.
- Database files.
The ransomware may not encrypt Windows key files for obvious reasons, which makes its removal possible. After encryption, Cryptoshocker adds the .locked file extension, for example:
- New Text Document.txt.locked
After being added, Cryptoshocker drops the following file on %Desktop%:
- ATTENTION.url
It leads the user to a website with ransom demands:
Text: “Your files are locked. You must deposit the specified ammount of BitCoin into the address provided below.”
Remove Cryptoshocker and Try To Restore Encrypted Files
In order to remove this ransomware virus from your computer, we strongly urge you to try using the removal instructions we have posted below. If you fail to follow the manual instructions or if you simply wish maximum effectiveness, it is recommended to follow the Automatic removal guide.
To restore your files, at the moment there is no direct solution. However, we will post an update at the beggining of this article as soon as researchers make a breaktrough. In the meantime you may try to restore a small portion of your data using the alternative methods in step “3. Restore files encrypted by Cryptoshocker” below. They may not be 100 percent effective but in some situations may work.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Cryptoshocker with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Cryptoshocker.
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 Cryptoshocker 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.
Cryptoshocker-FAQ
What is Cryptoshocker Ransomware?
Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker Infect?
Via several ways.Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker 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 .Cryptoshocker files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Cryptoshocker 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 .Cryptoshocker files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Cryptoshocker" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Cryptoshocker 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 Cryptoshocker 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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