Proofpoint researchers have discovered a ransomware dubbed CryptXXX. The ransomware is believed to be created by the same group of people who made the Reveton ransomware in the past. The Angler Exploit Kit and Bedep are used to distribute the ransomware.
Update! Kaspersky has officially announced that they have decrypted CryptXXX. They have found out a short delay that the ransomware makes to external storage encryption. It is done to confuse people who got the ransomware and to make it harder to detect the websites spreading the infection. CryptXXX uses the highest RSA 4096 bit encrypting algorithm, but Kaspersky has managed to crack it and put it into their Rannoh Decryptor.
Threat Summary
| Name | CryptXXX |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts your files with .crypt extension and asks a ransom of $500 for decryption. |
| Symptoms | Your files on all storage drives get encrypted. Files containing messages with instructions are created. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Exploit Kits |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss CryptXXX. |
Crypt XXX Ransomware – Update October 2019
In October 2019, the Crypt XXX ransomware has been reported to still be active and infecting new machines. Malware researchers are baffled because they have not found malware campaigns for the spread of the ransomware. Adult websites and adult content on online forums plus pop-ups might be the cause for the payload of Crypt XXX to drop, but that has not been confirmed. The Crypt XXX ransomware might still be able to infect computer systems, but fortunately there is a decryption tool available which still works.
CryptXXX Ransomware – Distribution
CryptXXX ransomware can be distributed in a few ways. One of those ways is via spam e-mails which have a malicious file as an attachment. If you open this attachment, it can insert the malware inside your machine. It is not excluded for social networks and file sharing services to serve as a distribution medium as well.
The CryptXXX ransomware is currently distributing with the help of the Bedep Trojan that gets inside your PC, through the Angler Exploit Kit. Just visiting websites or clicking on suspicious links can also get Angler EK or Bedep to inject this malware in your computer system.
CryptXXX Ransomware – Detailed Look
The CryptXXX malware is a new ransomware. It will encrypt all of your files found across all connected devices and storage drives. USBs, hard disks, SSDs and all partitions on drives from A to Z will have all files found on them encrypted. It asks a certain amount of money to be paid for ransom.
Proofpoint researchers believe the ransomware to be from the creators of the Reveton ransomware.
Both ransomware infections share lots of common factors, such as the Delphi programming language, custom Command and Control protocol on TCP port 443, a delayed start, especially if the malware is on a virtual machine. Other things that are common are: a .DLL named with a custom function on entry, the %AllUsersProfile% directory containing a .dat file and last, but not least Credentials- and BitCoin-thieving capabilities.
Entries in the following registry directories might be created:
HKLM/Software/Microsoft/WindowsNT/CurrentVersion/Winlogon/Shell
and
HKLM/Software/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Run/
Those entries might be created with the aim for the ransomware to load with each and every restart of the Operating System.
The Windows Registry might also be modified for a .DLL file related to the ranomware to run. The following registry entry could be made:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\
According to the researchers at Proofpoint the Bedep Trojan can create separate infections for the ransomware:
- C:\Users\%Username%\AppData\Local\Temp\{C3F31E62-344D-4056-BF01-BF77B94E0254}\api-ms-win-system-softpub-l1-1-0.dll
- C:\Users\%Username%\AppData\Local\Temp\{D075E5D0-4442-4108-850E-3AD2874B270C} \api-ms-win-system-provsvc-l1-1-0.dll
- C:\Users\%Username%\AppData\Local\Temp\{D4A2C643-5399-4F4F-B9BF-ECB1A25644A6}\api-ms-win-system-wer-l1-1-0.dll
- C:\Users\%Username%\AppData\Local\Temp\{FD68402A-8F8F-4B3D-9808-174323767296}\api-ms-win-system-advpack-l1-1-0.dll
After that CryptXXX will lock all of your files, no matter what extensions they are bearing. The ransomware searches to encrypt files with more than 100 extensions, some of which are the following:
→ .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
The newly appended file extension of each file is .crypt.
In addition to that, the ransomware will also try to steal BitCoins from infected users, as well as passwords and other important credentials.
Above and below you can see picture examples of instructions on how to pay the ransom look like. Those are the files that load them:
- de_crypt_readme.bmp
- de_crypt_readme.txt
- de_crypt_readme.html
Images source: Proofpoint.com
You are asked to pay around 1.2 Bitcoins or 500 US dollars within a five-day time frame. If you do not pay, the amount which is asked as payment will increase.
Reaching out to the ransomware creators and trying to pay the ransom is strongly NOT advised. No one can give a guarantee that your files will get restored. Paying the ransom money may not only be thought as a way of helping cyber criminals but also might motivate them to make another variant of the malware.
With the help of Frank Ruiz, Proofpoint researchers have arrived at the conclusion that the ransomware is very tightly connected to the Angler EK and Dridex Botnet.
That can only mean that the spread and attack of this ransomware could be on a massive scale. If you see a strange activity on your computer, shut it down – you might stop a raging ransomware from encrypting all of your data. In this forum topic you can find some useful tips about ransomware.
Remove CryptXXX Ransomware and Restore .crypt Encrypted Files
If CryptXXX ransomware infected your computer, you should be swift in removing it as it will try to lock files found on every storage device connected to your PC. If you are infected with this ransomware, you should have at least a little experience in removing malware. See the instructions written below to see how you can try to restore your files.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for CryptXXX with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CryptXXX.
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 CryptXXX 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.
CryptXXX-FAQ
What is CryptXXX Ransomware?
CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX Infect?
Via several ways.CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 .CryptXXX files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CryptXXX 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 .CryptXXX files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CryptXXX" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CryptXXX 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 CryptXXX 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.
After the removal process .crypt files can be restored with RannohDecryptor. This video guide can help you with the decryption process: youtube.com /watch?v=PhlBFjQM6E4
Hi Gergana
I have a problem with the new variant, all my documents are encrypted with *.cript.
I probe all kaspersky tolls, but none works with this variant.
Please help me to recover my files.
Hi, Josué!
Since there is version CryptXXX 3.0, .crypt files could not be restored by RannohDecryptor. The crooks are determined to outsmart the “white hats” so this ransomware evolved in three versions. The result of this game of outwitting is that even the cybercriminals can’t provide working decryptor for this malware.
I advise you not to reformat your drive until you try everything to get your files back.
You can try to restore some of your files utilizing:
– Shadow Explorer – you can find a download link above in this article. Choose “Step 3” from the automatic removal guide.
– Data recovery software
– Network Sniffer – if you haven’t deleted the ransomware, see what you can do using Network Sniffer: sensorstechforum.com/use-wireshark-decrypt-ransomware-files/
And hopefully, an active decryption tool will be available soon.
Write us if you have success and also if you need further help.