Cryptbit ransomware (virus) - Free Guide

What is Cryptbit ransomware?

Cryptbit ransomware is a malicious computer virus designed for file encryption

Cryptbit is a data-locking virus that demands a ransom to be paid in exchange for a decryptor

Cryptbit is a ransomware-type virus that targets regular Windows users. First spotted in the wild in mid-May 2022, it is actively spreading via peer-to-peer networks and software cracks, which remains one of the most common methods for the distribution of malware of this type.

As soon as it breaks in, the virus encrypts all personal files on the system with a strong encryption algorithm,^[1] including pictures, videos, documents, databases, etc. At this time, all files are stripped of their icons and acquire the .cryptbit extension, which also makes them unavailable for editing or even opening.

In order to unlock the files, users are asked to pay a ransom in Bitcoin – a request is shown in a ransom note titled CryptBIT-restore-files.txt. We do not recommend paying or even contacting cybercriminals, as they might never fulfill their promises. Instead, you should remove malware from the system and attempt to recover files in alternative ways.

Ransomware overview

Ransomware is one of the most devastating malware types out there. First of all, cybercriminals use various methods for its distribution, as their success depends on it. When it comes to crypto-malware that attacks regular computer users, distribution methods target masses, including spam emails, drive-by-downloads, exploits, software cracks, and more.

Upon infiltration, Cryptbit ransomware does not immediately encrypt files but instead prepares the system for this process. For example, it would alter some registry files to run with each Windows boot, connect to a remote server, delete Shadow Copies to prevent easy data recovery, etc.

Right after the preparations are complete, the malware then begins the encryption process. Most commonly-used files are targeted, including .DAT, .PDF, .ZIP, .JPG, .HTML, and more. System and most executable files are usually spared, as it is not the goal of ransomware to corrupt the operating system but rather to hold personal files hostage for the ransom demands – this is the main goal of cybercriminals.

As soon as the encryption process is finished, malware contacts a Command & Control^[2] server to assign a unique ID and send a generated decryption key to cybercriminals. This process is especially important as it is the only way victims can be recognized. In some cases, this may fail, which is another reason not to communicate with crooks.

It is important to note that during the infiltration period, Cryptbit also may attempt to establish a backdoor^[3] and attempt to spread laterally through the network, if such is available. This could allow the attackers to deliver additional payloads via the internet, which could cause even more harm. This is why it is important to remove the infection with all its components as soon as possible.

How to remove Cryptbit ransomware?

Before you can proceed with data recovery, it is extremely important to remove the virus from the system. While some ransomware self-destructs after the encryption is finished, this is not the case this time. If that happens, all the incoming files will continue to get encrypted, making the computer almost unusable.

The first step in removal is to disconnect the affected system from the network and the internet. The easiest way of doing so is by disconnecting the ethernet cable or disconnecting from the WiFi by clicking the internet icon on the taskbar. Once that is complete, you can then remove Cryptbit ransomware from your system.

While manual elimination of malware is possible, it is not recommended, as some components might be missed, which may result in reinfection. Likewise, some useful files might be damaged in the process.

Usually, you should be able to eradicate the infection with SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes security software without problems (as long as they are updated). However, if the virus is interfering with this process, we recommend you access Safe Mode with Networking and perform the elimination from there:

Windows 7 / Vista / XP

1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing the F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.

Windows 10 / Windows 8

1. Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
   
2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
4. Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
5. Click Restart now.
6. Select Troubleshoot.
7. Go to Advanced options.
8. Select Startup Settings.
9. Click Restart.
10. Press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.

How to restore .cryptbit files?

People get surprised when they find that an anti-malware scan does not restore their encrypted files. Security software is simply not designed for that – a special decryption tool for this particular ransomware needs to be used to be successful in this process. In short, ransomware removal will not bring your files back, and they will remain encrypted.

Your first option is to pay cybercriminals, which is highly discouraged due to a number of reasons. Paying only proves to crooks that their illegal scheme actually works, prompting them to infect more users. Most importantly, you are not guaranteed a decryptor, even if you pay.

Thus, we recommend going an alternative route and trying recovery software. Before you proceed, it is important you make backups of encrypted files, otherwise, you may lose them forever.

• Download Data Recovery Pro.
• Double-click the installer to launch it.
  
• Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
• As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
• Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
• Press Next.
• At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
• Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
• You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
• Press Recover to retrieve your files.

Security researchers are constantly working on battling malicious actors and helping victims by creating free decryptors. Unfortunately, such a tool is not yet developed for this malware family. There are several places where you could look for decryptors in the future:

• No More Ransom Project
• Free Ransomware Decryptors by Kaspersky
• Free Ransomware Decryption Tools from Emsisoft
• Avast decryptors

Take care of your system's health

Malware can seriously damage some system files, making users reinstall the operating system and avoid further stability issues. Instead, we strongly recommend you try using a PC repair tool – it is a perfect solution when it comes to Windows remediation after a malware attack.

• Download FortectIntego
• Click on the ReimageRepair.exe
  
  
• If User Account Control (UAC) shows up, select Yes
• Press Install and wait till the program finishes the installation process
• The analysis of your machine will begin immediately
• Once complete, check the results – they will be listed in the Summary
• You can now click on each of the issues and fix them manually
• If you see many problems that you find difficult to fix, we recommend you purchase the license and fix them automatically.