CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware (virus) - Recovery Instructions Included
CRYPTER v2.40 virus Removal Guide
What is CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware?
CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware can permanently damage users' personal files including photos, and documents
CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware makes all users' files look the same by encrypting them
CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware is a dangerous program that can cause irreparable damage to victims, their files, and the machine. When it infiltrates the system, it starts using complicated encryption algorithms[1] to lock users' personal files. This includes photos, videos, documents, etc.
When the encryption process is done, the affected files are appended with the .crypter extension. For example, if a file was previously named picture.jpg, now it would look like this – picture.jpg.crypter. The icons also turn to white pages so thumbnails are no more available.
Users may also notice that they cannot open their files or use them in any way. That is where the ransom note comes in. A pop-up window appears on the screen informing users about what has happened to their files and what needs to be done to get them back. Cybercriminals ask to be paid in return for a decryption key.
NAME | CRYPTER v2.40 |
TYPE | Ransomware, file locker, crypto virus |
DISTRIBUTION | Infected email attachments, torrent websites, malicious ads |
FILE EXTENSION | .crypter |
RANSOM NOTE | Pop-up window |
RANSOM AMOUNT | 0.08134 BTC |
FILE RECOVERY | If you do not have backups, the only way to decrypt the files is by getting the key that only the hackers have. There are additional recovery options using third-party software that we cover in this article |
MALWARE REMOVAL | The malicious program should only be removed with professional security tools to ensure all the malicious files are gone. Keep in mind that the antivirus cannot recover your data |
SYSTEM FIX | FortectIntego maintenance tool can fix damaged files and other system errors to help victims avoid having to reinstall the operating system completely |
The ransom note
CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware developers blackmail their victims to get paid
The full pop-up ransom note from CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware creators reads as follows:
CRYPTER v2.40
CRYPTER
YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!
Ooooop!! If you are seeing this message, it means you weren't careful about what you clicked on! Tisk, Tisk!!
If you are sure that you have been careful – well, thats even worse – that means someone else wasn't, and that this virus has now started to spread from computer to computer on your local network!!
I hope you see this and mitigate the spread before its too late…..
Well, anyway….
Each computer affected has a different key, meaning you'll need to pay for them all seperatly.Thanks now, Have a nice day.
73rr1bl3 S1l3nc3WALLET ADDRESS: 12mdKVNfAhLbRDLtRWQFhQgydgU6bUMjay
BITCOIN FEE: 0.08134
The threat actors explain to victims that their files have been encrypted because they were probably not careful enough on the Internet. They also ask for 0.08134 BTC (which is about $2580 at the time of writing) in return for a decryption key. Cybercriminals use scare tactics to make victims act as quickly as possible without thinking clearly.
Cryptocurrencies[2] are chosen as a form of payment because they are anonymous. It is also impossible to get a refund. Once you send a cryptocurrency transaction to someone, it is irreversible. We strongly advise against paying the ransomware developers because they cannot be trusted.
Many previous ransomware victims have come forward and reported that they never heard back from them after they sent the money. Even though there is almost no other way to get your files back, you might also get scammed if you take the risk. In this guide, you will find a third-party recovery solution that can help in some cases.
Distribution methods
Although it is unknown how specifically CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware is spread, there are some general tactics that cybercriminals use. Most often, people get infected with ransomware when installing “cracked” software[3] from torrent sites, and peer-to-peer file-sharing platforms. These websites are unregulated, so they are the perfect breeding ground for all kinds of malware.
It is best to use only official web stores and developer sites whenever you want to install software. Apps that get listed on digital marketplaces have to go through an extensive review process. You should also always do your research – read the reviews, look at the ratings, and the number of users.
Another possibility is that the malicious file appeared in your system through email. Crooks can disguise the emails using social engineering[4] methods and include infected attachments. That is why it is best not to open any email attachments that you are not sure of. Even if the attachment came from someone you know, it is best to double-check with them through another platform.
You might also not realize how important it is to keep your operating system and software updated. Hackers can use software vulnerabilities to deliver their malicious programs. Software developers regularly release security patches which should be installed as soon as possible if you want to keep your system safe.[5]
Remove the intruder from your machine
The first thing you have to do is remove the malicious files that are executing the tasks. If you try to recover the files without eliminating the cause, it can encrypt your files again and result in more damage. Removing the virus yourself should not be an option unless you have experience in this and know what you are doing. Use anti-malware tools like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes to scan your system.
This security software should find all the related files and entries and remove them automatically for you. Automatic removal is the best option because there is less risk of leaving some of the files on our system. Another thing to note is the malicious program could be preventing you from using the antivirus software, so check that first. If you are unable to do it, proceed with accessing Safe Mode on Windows:
Windows 7 / Vista / XP
- Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing 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.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Windows 10 / Windows 8
- Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
- Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
- On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
- Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
- Click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Go to Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Click Restart.
- Press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Data recovery options
Only hackers hold the decryption key, which can unlock your files, so if you did not back them up previously, you possibly lost your files forever. You can try using data recovery software, but third-party programs cannot always decrypt the files. We suggest at least trying it because it cannot hurt.
Important – only do this if you have already removed CRYPTER v2.40 ransomware
Before proceeding, you must copy the corrupted files and place them in a USB flash drive or another external storage. In case something happens, you will at least still have the encrypted files.
- 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.
Run a maintenance tool to fix system issues
Performance, stability, and usability issues, to the point where a full Windows reinstall is required, are expected after malware infection. These types of infections can alter the Windows registry database, damage vital bootup and other sections, delete or corrupt DLL files, etc. Once a system file is damaged by malware, antivirus software is not able to repair it.
There are tools created just for this purpose. FortectIntego can fix a lot of the damage caused by an infection like this. Blue Screen errors,[6] freezes, registry errors, damaged DLLs, etc., can make your computer completely unusable. By using this maintenance tool, you could try fixing the damaged system and avoid reinstallation.
- Download the application by clicking on the link above
- 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.
Getting rid of CRYPTER v2.40 virus. Follow these steps
Isolate the infected computer
Some ransomware strains aim to infect not only one computer but hijack the entire network. As soon as one of the machines is infected, malware can spread via network and encrypt files everywhere else, including Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices. If your computer is connected to a network, it is important to isolate it to prevent re-infection after ransomware removal is complete.
The easiest way to disconnect a PC from everything is simply to plug out the ethernet cable. However, in the corporate environment, this might be extremely difficult to do (also would take a long time). The method below will disconnect from all the networks, including local and the internet, isolating each of the machines involved.
- Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter
- Go to Network and Internet
- Click Network and Sharing Center
- On the left, pick Change adapter settings
- Right-click on your connection (for example, Ethernet), and select Disable
- Confirm with Yes.
If you are using some type of cloud storage you are connected to, you should disconnect from it immediately. It is also advisable to disconnect all the external devices, such as USB flash sticks, external HDDs, etc. Once the malware elimination process is finished, you can connect your computers to the network and internet, as explained above, but by pressing Enable instead.
Find a working decryptor for your files
File encryption is a process that is similar to applying a password to a particular file or folder. However, from a technical point of view, encryption is fundamentally different due to its complexity. By using encryption, threat actors use a unique set of alphanumeric characters as a password that can not easily be deciphered if the process is performed correctly.
There are several algorithms that can be used to lock data (whether for good or bad reasons); for example, AES uses the symmetric method of encryption, meaning that the key used to lock and unlock files is the same. Unfortunately, it is only accessible to the attackers who hold it on a remote server – they ask for a payment in exchange for it. This simple principle is what allows ransomware authors to prosper in this illegal business.
While many high-profile ransomware strains such as Djvu or Dharma use immaculate encryption methods, there are plenty of failures that can be observed within the code of some novice malware developers. For example, the keys could be stored locally, which would allow users to regain access to their files without paying. In some cases, ransomware does not even encrypt files due to bugs, although victims might believe the opposite due to the ransom note that shows up right after the infection and data encryption is completed.
Therefore, regardless of which crypto-malware affects your files, you should try to find the relevant decryptor if such exists. Security researchers are in a constant battle against cybercriminals. In some cases, they manage to create a working decryption tool that would allow victims to recover files for free.
Once you have identified which ransomware you are affected by, you should check the following links for a decryptor:
- No More Ransom Project
- Free Ransomware Decryptors by Kaspersky
- Free Ransomware Decryption Tools from Emsisoft
- Avast decryptors
If you can't find a decryptor that works for you, you should try the alternative methods we list below. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that it sometimes takes years for a working decryption tool to be developed, so there are always hopes for the future.
Create data backups to avoid file loss in the future
One of the many countermeasures for home users against ransomware is data backups. Even if your Windows get corrupted, you can reinstall everything from scratch and retrieve files from backups with minimal losses overall. Most importantly, you would not have to pay cybercriminals and risk your money as well.
Therefore, if you have already dealt with a ransomware attack, we strongly advise you to prepare backups for future use. There are two options available to you:
- Backup on a physical external drive, such as a USB flash drive or external HDD.
- Use cloud storage services.
The first method is not that convenient, however, as backups need to constantly be updated manually – although it is very reliable. Therefore, we highly advise choosing cloud storage instead – it is easy to set up and efficient to sustain. The problem with it is that storage space is limited unless you want to pay for the subscription.
Using Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is a built-in tool that comes with every modern Windows version. By default, you get 5 GB of storage that you can use for free. You can increase that storage space, but for a price. Here's how to setup backups for OneDrive:
- Click on the OneDrive icon within your system tray.
- Select Help & Settings > Settings.
- If you don't see your email under the Account tab, you should click Add an account and proceed with the on-screen instructions to set yourself up.
- Once done, move to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
- Select Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, or a combination of whichever folders you want to backup.
- Press Start backup.
After this, all the files that are imported into the above-mentioned folders will be automatically backed for you. If you want to add other folders or files, you have to do that manually. For that, open File Explorer by pressing Win + E on your keyboard, and then click on the OneDrive icon. You should drag and drop folders you want to backup (or you can use Copy/Paste as well).
Using Google Drive
Google Drive is another great solution for free backups. The good news is that you get as much as 15GB for free by choosing this storage. There are also paid versions available, with significantly more storage to choose from.
You can access Google Drive via the web browser or use a desktop app you can download on the official website. If you want your files to be synced automatically, you will have to download the app, however.
- Download the Google Drive app installer and click on it.
- Wait a few seconds for it to be installed.
- Now click the arrow within your system tray – you should see Google Drive icon there, click it once.
- Click Get Started.
- Enter all the required information – your email/phone, and password.
- Now pick what you want to sync and backup. You can click on Choose Folder to add additional folders to the list.
- Once done, pick Next.
- Now you can select to sync items to be visible on your computer.
- Finally, press Start and wait till the sync is complete. Your files are now being backed up.
Report the incident to your local authorities
Ransomware is a huge business that is highly illegal, and authorities are very involved in catching malware operators. To have increased chances of identifying the culprits, the agencies need information. Therefore, by reporting the crime, you could help with stopping the cybercriminal activities and catching the threat actors. Make sure you include all the possible details, including how did you notice the attack, when it happened, etc. Additionally, providing documents such as ransom notes, examples of encrypted files, or malware executables would also be beneficial.
Law enforcement agencies typically deal with online fraud and cybercrime, although it depends on where you live. Here is the list of local authority groups that handle incidents like ransomware attacks, sorted by country:
- USA – Internet Crime Complaint Center IC3
- United Kingdom – ActionFraud
- Canada – Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Australia – ScamWatch
- New Zealand – ConsumerProtection
- Germany – Polizei
- France – Ministère de l'Intérieur
If your country is not listed above, you should contact the local police department or communications center.
Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from CRYPTER v2.40 and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes
How to prevent from getting ransomware
Protect your privacy – employ a VPN
There are several ways how to make your online time more private – you can access an incognito tab. However, there is no secret that even in this mode, you are tracked for advertising purposes. There is a way to add an extra layer of protection and create a completely anonymous web browsing practice with the help of Private Internet Access VPN. This software reroutes traffic through different servers, thus leaving your IP address and geolocation in disguise. Besides, it is based on a strict no-log policy, meaning that no data will be recorded, leaked, and available for both first and third parties. The combination of a secure web browser and Private Internet Access VPN will let you browse the Internet without a feeling of being spied or targeted by criminals.
No backups? No problem. Use a data recovery tool
If you wonder how data loss can occur, you should not look any further for answers – human errors, malware attacks, hardware failures, power cuts, natural disasters, or even simple negligence. In some cases, lost files are extremely important, and many straight out panic when such an unfortunate course of events happen. Due to this, you should always ensure that you prepare proper data backups on a regular basis.
If you were caught by surprise and did not have any backups to restore your files from, not everything is lost. Data Recovery Pro is one of the leading file recovery solutions you can find on the market – it is likely to restore even lost emails or data located on an external device.
- ^ 5 Common Encryption Algorithms and the Unbreakables of the Future. Arcserve. Data Protection.
- ^ Ransomware: Paying Cyber Extortion Demands in Cryptocurrency. Marsh. Cyber Risks.
- ^ Georgina Torbet. 5 Security Reasons Not to Download Cracked Software. Makeuseof. Security Blog.
- ^ Cynthia Gonzalez. Top 8 Social Engineering Techniques and How to Prevent Them [2022]. Exabeam. Information Security.
- ^ Why Are Patch Updates So Important?. Packetlabs. Cybersecurity Blog.
- ^ Chris Hoffman. Everything You Need To Know About the Blue Screen of Death. Howtogeek. Technology Magazine.