How to remove Crptxxx ransomware virus

What is Crptxxx ransomware and how actively does it spread around?

Crptxxx virus is a ransomware^[1] that tries to look scary by using a name, which is similar to another ransomware’s name. It seems that Crptxxx ransomware was dubbed this way to trick victims into thinking that they were infected with CryptXXX ransomware which is a multi-version malware^[2]. Although this ransomware is not perfect, Crptxxx malware seems to be even less professional. Just like any other ransomware project, this virus was created with an intention to be used for illegal attacks against unprotected computers. After a successful attack, the virus should encrypt all files on the computer system, add .crptxxx file extensions to them, and then leave a ransom note dubbed HOW_TO_FIX!.txt, which says that all data on the computer was encrypted using AES algorithm^[3]. The ransomware asks to download Tor browser^[4] and access a particular domain, however, at the moment these domains can not be opened. The virus advises the victim not to use any third-party software for data decryption, otherwise “it can cause permanent data loss.” Sadly, we are not sure if ransomware authors can restore your files, either. 

This crypto-malware was updated in the end of March. The second its version is dubbed “BTCware” because of the extension used by this ransomware. BTCWare ransomware asks its victims 0.5 BTC in exchange for releasing their files. They have also been required to register Blockchain wallet to make successful transactions to cyber criminals. The ransom note is called “#_HOW_TO_FIX_!.hta” which is identical to the first version of this ransomware. If you happen to find it on your PC’s desktop, you should waste no time to remove Crptxxx virus from your computer. 

They are going to ask you to create a Bitcoin wallet, buy some Bitcoins and transfer a particular sum of them to criminals’ Bitcoin wallet. Bitcoin is a virtual currency that helps people stay anonymous while making payments, and unfortunately, it has helped ransomware industry prosper rapidly^[5]. We highly advise you to stay patient and not pay the money that cyber criminals expect to get from you. It seems that the described ransomware version is not that sophisticated regarding programming, so it is likely that it might be cracked soon. As soon as Crptxxx decrypter becomes available, we will update this article. Until then, you can try other data recovery means, which are described below. You can also recover your files from a data backup. Before you start data recovery procedure, remove Crptxxx completely. For that, you can use anti-malware programs, for instance, FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. However, do not rush to run these programs right now – firstly, use the Crptxxx removal guide provided below and restart your PC in a Safe Mode with Networking.

How can I protect my PC from ransomware attacks?

Ransomware can slip into your computer system after opening a malicious email attachment or clicking on a dangerous link while browsing the Internet. Some ransomware viruses are distributed using malvertising trick, which allows attackers to inject malicious advertisements into legitimate ad networks. This way, you can come across a malicious ad even when surfing the most dependable Internet websites. Such ads use JavaScript program to download the malware to the victim’s computer, which means that a little or no user interaction is required to download ransomware into the computer. Such advanced tricks are well-known to cyber security experts, and you can prevent such attacks by using a strong anti-malware software. We assume that Crptxxx virus is mostly distributed via email spam because it is so far the easiest and still very efficient way of injecting malware to users’ computers. You should try and stay away from interesting-looking emails that come from unknown senders. Even if the email looks like legitimate Amazon or Paypal message, double-check the sender’s email address to make sure that it is not a phishing email. Scammers love to pretend that they’re someone they’re not – do not forget about it!

How can I remove Crptxxx ransomware virus?

Now that your computer is compromised, you need to take certain actions to remove Crptxxx virus from the system completely. We highly recommend you to use malware removal tool, because it is the easiest and safest way of deleting ransomware-type viruses from the computer. Technically, you can try to remove the ransomware on your own, but we strongly recommend you not to do so. Manual Crptxxx removal is a tough challenge and failure to complete it successfully can have serious consequences. Therefore, if you value your time, better pick the automatic ransomware removal option.