How to remove .crypt file extension virus

.crypt file extension virus is a ransomware-type computer infection, which can get inside your PC in a deceptive way. .crypt file extension virus is also known as CryptXXX ransomware, which has been updated a few times already and, as a result, CryptXXX 2.0 and CryptXXX 3.0 versions exist.

.crypt file extension virus – what does it do?

When .crypt file extension virus gets inside the computer system, it encodes (encrypts) files on victim’s computer and also on all drives and devices attached to it, leaving no hope to access them. In addition to that, this ransomware adds .crypt file extensions to each encrypted file. What is interesting, .crypt file extension ransomware does not encrypt the files right after entering victim’s computer – this harmful program is programmed to delay the start of the encryption process so that the computer user would not be able to identify the source of infection. CryptXXX malware differs from other ransomware variants also because it exploits the compromised computer in every possible way. It finds and steals victim’s Bitcoins from hard drives and also all important documents that contain valuable data. Then .crypt extension malware drops ransom notes and informs the user what happened. The ransom note comes in three different formats, all named as de_crypt_readme:

• De_crypt_readme.html – can be found in each folder that holds the encrypted data.
• De_crypt_readme.bmp – virus sets this one as a desktop wallpaper.
• De_crypt_readme.txt – can be found in each folder that contains the encrypted data.

The victim receives information about the virus, what has it done to the computer system, and what needs to be done in order to recover the encrypted files. This virus demands to purchase Bitcoins and pay 1.2 BTC (which is roughly 541 USD) to a certain Bitcoin account if the computer user wants to recover his/hers files and access them again. However, you should not rush to transfer the payment. Computer security experts have already developed some .crypt file extension virus decryption tools that are powerful enough to decrypt files locked by the first or the second version of CryptXXX ransomware. Another option to recover the data is to import it from a backup. Take note that before you start decrypting your files, you need to remove .crypt file extension virus first. You should assign this task to a powerful anti-malware application like FortectIntego.

How does .crypt file extension virus spread and what can you do to prevent its attack?

CryptXXX malware is extremely dangerous, but if you take precautions on time, you can prevent its infiltration. It is very important to protect your computer BEFORE ransomware steps into it because usually nothing can be done AFTER ransomware affects the PC. To protect your computer from ransomware, follow these guidelines:

• Protect your computer with anti-malware software that has real-time protection feature. Such program can identify viruses and prevent them from attacking your computer system. Make sure you update it regularly;
• Do not browse through untrustworthy Internet sites and avoid clicking on aggressive pop-up advertisements. Remember – even one careless click on an infectious link can drop malware on your computer system;
• When you download any type of file to your computer, save it, do not run it. This way, you will give your computer security software enough time to scan the file and check if it is not a malicious one;
• Keep all your software up-to-date;
• Do not open suspicious emails sent to you by unknown individuals or companies. No matter if the email attachment says it is a CV, speeding ticket, or invoice – do not open it.
• Do not click on any links that come with such emails, for example, if you get an email from an unknown sender, and it says you can click “Unsubscribe” if you do not want to get such emails anymore, don’t do it. The button might be corrupted and hide a malicious hyperlink that drops malware to your computer.

You can find a comprehensive .crypt file extension virus removal guide on page 2, as well as a link to download .crypt file extension virus decryption tool.

How to remove .crypt file extension ransomware and decrypt your data?

To remove .crypt file extension virus, follow the steps of .crypt file extension virus removal instructions that are given below. You must disable the virus to run the anti-malware software or download it if you do not have one. Then install a reliable anti-malware program (for example, you can use FortectIntego anti-malware) and run a system scan with it. You can decrypt your files with a help of this tool – CryptXXX decrypter.