How to remove CryptoShield ransomware virus

CryptoShield becomes the new CryptoMix

CryptoShield ransomware is a product of the same developers as CryptoMix. Besides the altered name, the cyber infection possesses some significant updates. Previously, the threat exploited RSA-2048 algorithm to encode files and attached .lesli file extension to the corrupted data. Now, the newer version has changed its hijack tactics and other technical specifications. CryptoShield virus spreads with the assistance of Rig Exploit Kit which has also been used to infect systems with Cerber. To prevent these viruses, you must to review your security software and arm up only with the reputable one. One of the solutions to prevent these ransomware viruses is to install FortectIntego. It is also practical in CryptoShield removal process.

Recently detected by ProofPoint security researcher Kafeine, the malware seems to impersonate well-known file-encrypting threats. The previous version preferred the outlook of CryptoWall^[1], the current version sympathizes with the creators of Locky^[2] as the ransom message is identical to the one employed by the menacing threat. No matter that CryptoShield seems to work in a similar manner, the threat uses two types of encryption techniques. As common for these types of threats, the ransomware encodes personal files with the AES-256 algorithm. However, it also uses ROT-13^[3] encryptor which is based on a simple coding pattern. The latter does not cause any problems of deciphering. Naturally, the virus leaves its mark in the system – all of the data contains .cryptoshield file extension. 

Despite the feature to use a plain coding technique, ROT-13, it might be futile to underestimate CryptoShield 1.0 malware. The previous version is capable of encoding more than 800 files within a short period of time. The current version aims to encrypt more than 50 file format types. CryptoShield ransomware presents the demands in # RESTORING FILES #.HTML and # RESTORING FILES #.TXT. In the ransom note, three email addresses are provided: restoring_sup@india.com, restoring_sup@computer4u.com, and restoring_reserve@india.com. It might be the case that the same gang of cyber villains which tend to use @india.com themed email domains, might be behind CryptoShield as well.

Some features of this cyber menace spark an interest. The threat disguises under explorer.exe file and initiates a fake error notification about the possibly crashed explorer. This counterfeited message with obvious typing and spelling tries to persuade to enable the following UAC (User Account Control) command. Though canceling the latter notification will hardly cease the execution of the ransomware, you should still opt for the termination. Additionally, you might try ending any suspicious task in the Task Manager. Unfortunately, the crooks also programmed the virus to access shadow volume copies and delete them. Despite these destructive specifications, it is futile to give in to the despair. Remove CryptoShield with the assistance of FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes.

Distribution methods used by this ransomware

The new version of CryptMix fishes for new users in corrupted websites^[4]. The latest one that has been found to spread this virus is called cedar(dot)igrooveweb(dot)com, so make sure you don’t visit it. Specifically, it operates via EITest element. It performs an intermediary role as it produces several attack chains on the vic because it victims which visited an infected web page. Later on, after locating crucial vulnerabilities, it serves RIG exploit kit to the operation system. Then it becomes only a matter of time when this malevolent tool downloads all components of the malware to complete CryptoShield hijack. If you are a website administrator or an ordinary user, update and ensure better protection of your monitored domain and the device.

What do I need to remove CryptoShield?

Firstly, it is necessary to employ to fully complete CryptoShield 1.0 removal even to consider data recovery to be effective. If your anti-virus application failed to block the threat, the anti-malware application might be a solution. Install it and update so that it could detect the infection. After the elimination, proceed to the data recovery steps. Since the virus deletes shadow volume copies from, some programs which operate based on these patterns might not work. As a result, you would need to opt for other alternatives. In case you encounter some problems which bother you to remove CryptoShield 1.0 virus fully, use the following guide. In addition, if you backed up your system before, you might succeed in retrieving the files^[5].