A new ransomware from the “@” variants has been spotted and reported out in the wild. It carries the name PayCrypt and locks user files appending a random identification file extension with the paycrypt@aol e-mail address. The encrypted files are rendered corrupt, and affected users’ only viable choice seems to be following the ransom instructions which the virus sets as wallpaper. They include contacting the e-mail address and negotiating the ransom payment. We strongly advise affected users not to pay the ransom and to seek alternative file decryption methods.
Name | PayCrypt |
Type | Ransomware. |
Short Description | Encrypts your files demanding ransom payment for their decryption. |
Symptoms | The user may witness the wallpaper changed to the one posted below and his files to have a custom extension and become DOS type of files. |
Distribution Method | Via malicious files, Exploit Kits or malicious URLs. |
Detection Tool | Download Malware Removal Tool, to See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware |
User Experience | Join our forum to discuss PayCrypt. |
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. |
PayCrypt Ransomware – Spread
To be redistributed over the web, the crypto-malware may use various methods. Since the infected file dropped on the victim computers is an executable with a random alpha numerical name, experts would suggest that it was copied to the computer via several different distribution methods:
- As an attachment via a spam email message.
- As a file that has been dropped via an exploit kit.
- A drive-by download of a Dropper caused by visiting a malicious link.
Users are strongly advised always to check unfamiliar files and links using their antivirus or services such as VirusTotal.
PayCrypt Ransomware In Detail
Once the “@” ransomware has been activated on the user’s PC, it may create files several files in key folders:
- %AppData%
- %AppData%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %UserProfile%
- %Roaming%
After doing so, the ransomware may seek to encrypt files that are commonly used (https://fileinfo.com/filetypes/common) on the user PC. An encrypted file looks like the following example:
- New Text Document.txt.id-1923528234023-paycrypt@aol.com
The files are encrypted with a randomly generated numerical number after which the paycrypt@aol.com address. After encrypting the user’s data, this particular ransomware also uses a ransom message which points out the PayCrypt e-mail address. The ransom message may be the following:
Some users who contacted ransomware such as this one have reported establishing contact with the cyber-criminals and even lower down the ransom money. However, we at SensorsTechForum strongly advise against paying any ransom money at all for several different reasons:
- You fund the cyber-criminals to improve their malware and spread it even more.
- There is no guarantee you will get your files decrypted by them.
The bottom line for this crypto-malware is that it is most likely sold as a service. This is known as RaaS (Ransomware as a Service) and is very widespread on the deep web markets. Some users have even reported that such malware is being sold in the range 500 to 1000 USD. Just like any other software you may encounter, it may contain instructions on how to be used and ability to set the extension, encryption algorithm (RSA, AES, DH, etc.) and not only this, but the ransomware may also let the user customize the amount of money they will demand.
Remove PayCrypt Ransomware and Restore the Encrypted Files
To remove this crypto-malware, users are strongly advised to follow the step-by-step removal instructions below. They should ensure that you effectively detect and remove the files and other objects like registry entries that are associated with this malware.
After removing the malware, all that is left is for you to get back what is yours – the files. To do this, we have suggested several removal methods in step “4. Restore Files Encrypted by PayCrypt” below. One of those methods is Kaspersky’s Rakhni decryptor which has been reported to work with other “@” ransomware variants such as the PayCrypt@aol one. But you should know that the decryption process may take some time, and this is why we recommend setting your computer to stay awake and not hibernate automatically (laptops).
Here is an instruction video on how to remove the malware and try and decrypt your data:
(Viable)Remove “@” Ramsomware and Decrypt Your Files Instruction Video
Attention! SensorsTechForum strongly recommends that all malware victims should look for assistance only by reputable sources. Many guides out there claim to offer free recovery and decryption for files encrypted by ransomware viruses. Be advised that some of them may only be after your money.
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.
How to Remove PayCrypt from Windows.
Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove PayCrypt





Step 2: Uninstall PayCrypt and related software 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 PayCrypt 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 PayCrypt 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: Scan for PayCrypt with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by PayCrypt.
Ransomware infections and PayCrypt 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Get rid of PayCrypt from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall PayCrypt and remove related files and objects
1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:
- Go to Finder.
- In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
- Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
- If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.
In case you cannot remove PayCrypt via Step 1 above:
In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:
You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:
→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons
Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.
Step 3 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by PayCrypt.
Ransomware infections and PayCrypt 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
PayCrypt FAQ
What is PayCrypt ransomware and how does it work?
PayCrypt 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 algorithm how 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.
How does PayCrypt ransomware infect my computer?
Via several ways.PayCrypt Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing e-mails, 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.
After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.
Another way, you may become a victim of PayCrypt 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 .PayCrypt files?
You can't. At this point the .PayCrypt files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted.
Decryptor did not decrypt my data. What now?
Do not panic and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .PayCrypt files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
One way to restore files, encrypted by PayCrypt ransomware is to use a decryptor for it. But since it's a new virus, advised that the decryption keys for it may not be out yet and available to the public. We will update this article and keep you posted as soon as this decryptor is released.
How Do I restore ".PayCrypt" files (Other Methods)?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .PayCrypt files.
These methods are in no way 100% guarantee that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How do I get rid of PayCrypt ransomware virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti malware software. It will scan for and locate PayCrypt ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .PayCrypt files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like PayCrypt ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts. Scanning your computer with an anti-malware software will make sure that all of these virus components are removed and your computer is protected in the future.
What to Do If nothing works?
There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:
- Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
- Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
- Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted it can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way to get back some of your files is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
- You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.
More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.
How to 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.