In this article, you will find more information about Moncrypt virus 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.
Moncrypt Virus
Moncrypt virus is a data locker ransomware that belongs to Scarab threat family. Once it manages to trick you into starting malicious files on your operating system, it interferes with essential system settings. The contamination of these settings enables the ransomware to reach valuable personal files and encodes them with the help of a sophisticated cipher algorithm. Following encryption, encrypted files remain inaccessible and renamed with the malicious extension .moncrypt An image file that is originally named trip.jpg will appear as trip.jpg.moncrypt Finally, Moncrypt virus drops a ransom note HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT to extort a ransom payment for a decryption tool.
Threat Summary
| Name | Moncrypt |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that encodes valuable files with sophisticated cipher algorithm and demands a ransom fee for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .moncrypt extension. Hackers attempt to blackmail you into paying a ransom for a decryption tool. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Infected Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Moncrypt. |
| 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. |
Distribution and Impact of Moncrypt Ransomware
There are several spread techniques that may be used for the distribution of Moncrypt ransomware virus. One of those techniques is called malspam. The technique lets hackers spread malicious code via massive email campaigns. They usually embed their malware in files of common types and attach these files to email messages. In addition, emails are often disguised as legitimate businesses or services.
When you open the corrupted file on your PC you trigger the ransomware payload on your device unnoticeably. Commonly used types of files such as documents, PDFs, images are likely to be misused for the spread of Moncrypt ransomware payload. As for the attachments, are often presented as:
- Invoices coming from reputable sites, like PayPal, eBay, etc.
- Documents from that appear to be sent from your bank.
- An online order confirmation note.
- Receipt for a purchase.
- Others.
Security researchers reported that Moncrypt virus is a strain of the vicious ransomware family Scarab. The infection process with Moncrypt cryptovirus begins when its payload is loaded on your computer system. Afterward, the threat attempts to complete a long sequence of malicious activities.
At first, the ransomware creates additional malicious files and objects on the system. It could be set to store the files in some of the following folders:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
Once the ransomware establishes all needed files it continues with the completion of other attack stages. By executing malicious files, the ransomware becomes able to remain invisible while contaminating essential system settings. Eventually, it starts misusing system functionalities and legitimate processes for malicious purposes.
After the contamination of certain system components, Moncrypt virus reaches the data encryption stage. For the completion of this stage, it activates a built-in cipher module that scans predefined folders for target files. Then this module encrypts all target files by utilizing a sophisticated cipher algorithm. Like its predecessors, Moncrypt Scarab ransomware probably uses the AES cipher algorithm to encode files. As a result, you may have all your valuable files inaccessible and renamed with the extension .moncrypt
You may not be able to use your:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
At the end of the attack, Moncrypt virus drops the ransom message HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT
Here is what you can read when you open the message:
Your files are now encrypted!
Your personal identifier:
+4IAAAAAAAAIqNV***XjLxD8TsAll your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC.
Now you should send us email with your personal identifier.
This email will be as confirmation you are ready to pay for decryption key.
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us.
After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.Contact us using this email address: moncoin@protonmail.com
Free decryption as guarantee!
Before paying you can send us up to 3 files for free decryption.
The total size of files must be less than 10Mb (non archived), and files should not contain
valuable information (databases, backups, large excel sheets, etc.).
If you are waiting for a message from us for more than 12 hours, check spam folder.Attention!
* Do not rename encrypted files.
* Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
* Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price
(they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
This message attempts to trick you into transferring a ransom fee to hackers. Although they promise to send back an efficient decryption tool for .moncrypt files, we recommend that you avoid paying them the ransom. There is no guarantee that their tool will be able to decrypt encoded files. Furthermore, you could never receive any answer from them even after you pay the ransom.
Remove Moncrypt Virus
Moncrypt virus is a threat that once started on your computer operating system disrupts its security and leaves it extremely vulnerable to additional malware attacks. You can use your infected system in a secure manner again only after you remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For the thorough removal of Moncrypt, you can use the steps presented in the guide below. Beware that the manual ransomware removal is suitable for users who have computer experience. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide. There you will find a professional removal tool that will scan the system for any malicious files and let you remove them with a few mouse clicks.
Here we should warn you that the removal of Moncrypt ransomware will only help you to strengthen the security of your system. All personal data remains encrypted until it is decrypted by an efficient recovery tool.
Step 5 from our Moncrypt ransomware removal guide presents alternative data recovery methods that may be efficient for the recovery of encrypted files. Beware that you should make copies of all encrypted files and save them on a flash drive for example before the beginning of 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 Moncrypt with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Moncrypt.
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 Moncrypt 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.
Moncrypt-FAQ
What is Moncrypt Ransomware?
Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt Infect?
Via several ways.Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt 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 .Moncrypt files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Moncrypt 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 .Moncrypt files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Moncrypt" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Moncrypt 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 Moncrypt 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.