In this article, you will find more information about FCRYPT ransomware as well as a step-by-step guide on how to remove malicious files from an infected system and how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
When your system is infected with FCRYPT ransomware your important files will be encrypted and renamed with the extension .FCrypt. In addition, you will have a file called #HELP-DECRYPT-FCRYPT1.1#.txt dropped on your system. This file could be automatically loaded on your screen. It contains more information about the ransomware, impacts caused by it and instructions on further steps for data recovery.
Threat Summary
| Name | FCRYPT Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that corrupts valuable files and renames them with .FCrypt extension. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .FCrypt extension. They get lock icons and cannot be opened. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| 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 FCRYPT 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. |
FCRYPT Ransomware – Distribution
FCRYPT ransomware has been released in active attack campaigns. Its distribution is likely to happen with the help of commonly used techniques such as malspam, corrupted freeware installers, software cracks, infected web pages, fake software update notifications and other.
Preferred by hackers is believed to be malspam. It is a well-known fact that almost every user has an email address where a large number of emails appear a daily basis. Considering this, hackers often attempt to deliver their ransomware by disguising it as important documents, shopping offers, and payment notifications. When misused by hackers, these files are often attached to emails that pose as representatives of popular businesses, frequently used services, and governmental institutions. As you might guess by loading such a file on your device you automatically infect it with the malicious code embedded in the code of this file.
Another way to disguise their ransomware activator is by injecting it into the code of any web page and set this page to trigger an automatic download whenever loaded in a web browser. URLs to infected pages could be again presented in emails that attempt to deliver the malicious code on your device, tied to online advertisements, shared in forum communities or displayed on social media channels.
FCRYPT Ransomware – Overview
FCRYPT is the name given to a ransomware infection that plagues computer systems in an attempt to reach valuable files stored on it and encode them by utilizing a specialized cipher algorithm. It’s version 1.1 of this threat that has recently been launched in active attack campaigns.
At the beginning of the infection process, FCRYPT creates a bunch of malicious files which it afterward uses for the completion of all infection stages. To realize this step, the ransomware could be configured to either write the files directly on the system or download them from a contacted command-and-control server. Either way, it could choose some of the following system folders for their storage:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
By executing these files on your system, FCRYPT v1.1 accesses some fundamental system components so that it can compromise certain settings and eventually become able to complete the attack to the end.
Analyses of FCRYPT’s sample reveal that its code is designed to gain entry to Windows Registry Editor where some low-level system and apps settings are stored. Once it is there FCRYPT ransomware adds values under predefined registry keys, often Run and RunOnce in order to become able to misuse their functionalities for malicious purposes. Values added under the registry key Run support the persistent presence of FCRYPT on your computer because of key’s functionality to load automatically all listed files and processes on every system start.
Since RunOnce registry key is capable of loading files and processes instantly, the ransomware could be configured to use it for the display of its ransom note. This usually happens at the end of the attack when all previous infection stages including the data encryption are completed. As of the note, it could be found in the file #HELP-DECRYPT-FCRYPT1.1#.txt dropped by the ransomware. Here is the message it presents:
–= FCRYPT V1.1 =–
Warning!
All your important files are encrypted and have the extension: .FCrypt
No one else can decrypt your file!
Please follow the steps below:
1. Send this file (#HELP-DECRYPT-FCRYPT1.1#.txt) to E-mail : fcrypt@qq.com
2. Uninstall all anti-virus software on your computer.
3. Waiting for our reply .
You DON’T need to pay any money for decryption.
NOTE!
IN ORDER TO PREVENT DATA DAMAGE:
# DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES
# DO NOT CHAGE DATA BELOW
…..BEGIN CERTIFICATE…..
hQEMAwPklKRCsUg0AQgAgYvhOX9OYzDYPtlWet2NBve7dlZKpo6IpdhYWUdpRTpygip0QF010rxAHEz0mTEga7uFovhMzmu/I8quySllRsS7XypaP7SGdvbyrikpUnAR
*****
It’s interesting that hackers demand no ransom for the recovery of .FCrypt files just an email at fcrypt@qq.com . However, it is a possible scenario that their reply message will try to blackmail you into transferring them a ransom in any cryptocurrency.
Even if they send you a working decryption solution you should ensure that no malicious files and objects are present on your infected PC. As long as they are running on it, you could not consider it safe.
FCRYPT Ransomware – Encryption Process
During the encryption stage, FCRYPT v1.1 activates a built-in cipher module to localize target files and then encode their original code. Encrypted files get lock icons and the extension FCrypt appended to their names.
Corrupted by this threat could be:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Remove FCRYPT Ransomware
The so-called FCRYPT ransomware is a threat with highly complex code designed to corrupt both system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your infected system in a secure manner again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For the purpose, you could use our removal guide that reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step. In addition, in the guide, you will find several alternative data recovery approaches that may be helpful in attempting to restore files encrypted by FCRYPT ransomware. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for FCRYPT Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by FCRYPT Ransomware.
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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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.
FCRYPT Ransomware-FAQ
What is FCRYPT Ransomware Ransomware?
FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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 .FCRYPT Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .FCRYPT Ransomware 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 .FCRYPT Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".FCRYPT Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this FCRYPT Ransomware 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 FCRYPT Ransomware 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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