The RSA-2048 encryption key typical for Cryptowall 3.0 has been reported to strike users’ computers and display a ransomware message. Thus, the threat is also dubbed Ransomware RSA-2048 or may be referred as RSA-2048 virus. Once activated, the encryption key ‘locks’ the victim’s files and asks for payment so that a decryption key is provided. However, even if the user decides to pay the fee, there is no guarantee that his files will be safely restored. Ransomware is developed with the sole purpose to generate revenue and should not be trusted. The best protection against ransomware and particularly the RSA-2048 encryption key is having crucial data previously stored on an external device or in a cloud.
Threat Summary
| Name | CryptoWall 3.0 |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | Learn how to remove CryptoWall’s encryption key. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted and are inaccessible. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
| Detection Tool |
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What Is RSA Encryption?
Curiously enough, the cyber crooks that have developed the RSA-2048 encryption key have provided a link to the RSA encryption article in Wikipedia on the ransom page. According to Wikipedia, RSA is among the first efficient public-key cryptosystems that have been widely applied for secure data transmission. The typical feature of RSA keys is that that they are public and are different from the decryption key that is kept private. 
The name RSA comes from the initial letters of the family names of Ron Rivest, Adi Shamir and Leonard Adleman – the pioneers who explained the algorithm to the public back in 1977.
What Is Cryptowall?
STF researchers remind that CryproWall is a file encrypting type of malicious software that encrypts certain files on an infected system and demands a fee ($500) to provide the victim with the decryption key. The given deadline is usually within the next 168 hours. The ransom is required in Bitcoin digital currency.
What Is the Difference Between Cryptowall and Cryptowall 3.0?
It is safe to assume that Cryptowall 3.0 has improved the encrypting features of its first version. Research performed a while ago has indicated that the creators of Cryptowall 3.0 have included new Tor to Web gateways such as:
- torman2.com
- torforall.com
- torroadsters.com
- torwoman.com
It is suspected that one of the domains redirects the victim to the page containing the payment instruction. However, the IDs for tracking the money transfers are unique, and the payment deadline is extended to a whole week. If the ransom is not paid within the given time, the sum is increased to $1000.
How Can I Remove RSA-2048 Encryption Key?
Always keep in mind that backing up essential files using an external memory device or a cloud service is very crucial to the user’s online safety. If users have their files stored somewhere else, they would not even consider paying any fee to cybercriminals.
To remove RSA-2048 encryption key, have a look at the guide below.
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
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I need also a decryptor for a lot of private files.
Need help, try’d several decrypt programs from Kaspersky, but unfortunately nog succes. Files can not be decrypted.
Who has a solution?