How to remove Crystal ransomware virus

Crystal ransomware infects the system with the help of additional malware

Crystal ransomware is a computer malware that uses AES encryption to corrupt files on a target computer. The malware disables Windows Firewall to avoid detection. The virus arrives into the system in tandem with a malware downloader and a flooder^[1]. The virus aims to thoroughly corrupt victim’s files and demands a ransom.

Once installed on the system, the virus employs Rijndael encryption algorithm^[2] (also known as Advanced Encryption Standard or AES) to encode all of the victim’s files. It typically targets pictures, documents, videos, databases and other relevant files.

It goes without saying that the purpose of this virus is not to corrupt the data permanently – the files can be decrypted, but only with the help of a decryption key that is sent to criminals’ servers. Unfortunately, without criminals’ help, there is no way to retrieve this key.

Typically, frauds leave a ransom note asking for a ransom paid in Bitcoins, but in this case, the ransomware doesn’t leave any notes on the system. Cyber security experts assume that this virus is only an in-development version of something more dangerous that might be released in the future.

If you turned on your personal or work computer and found your files marked with .CRYSTAL file extensions, you should immediately run an anti-malware software to wipe the malware off your computer.

For Crystal removal, we strongly suggest using FortectIntego software. It will help you to identify the backdoor, flooder and other malware pieces that came with the ransomware. To remove Crystal virus efficiently, check instructions we added.

Typical behavior of ransomware and distribution techniques used

Ransomware usually spreads via email spam, Trojans, exploit kits and other malware dissemination techniques, says NoVirus.uk experts^[3]. While you have to be careful when browsing the Internet, opening emails or visiting unknown Internet sites, it is also very important to prepare for an unexpected ransomware attack properly. Here’s how to do it.

• Ransomware is a malicious program that is usually launched from an executive file. However, cyber criminals tend to obfuscate this file or use .js or .word files as additional tools that look less suspicious, but contain a script that connects to a remote server, downloads and executes the malware.
• To prevent ransomware from corrupting your system, install anti-malware software and create a data backup. These two tasks will prepare you for an unexpected malware infiltration.
• Now, to avoid ransomware viruses in general, we suggest staying away from vague-looking email letters. You must pay attention to the sender’s email address because it is the number one sign revealing that someone’s trying to scam you. If you notice that it looks unprofessional, do not open files or links included in the message.
• Continuously update the programs you have. Download the updates from official software vendors only. Do not trust shady third-party sites or, even worse, pop-up ads!

Remove Crystal ransomware and related malware

Crystal is a virus that infects the computer system with the help of additional malware pieces. Therefore, it is important not only to remove Crystal virus but also the flooder and the backdoor that comes with it. To eliminate these threats, rely on an anti-malware software. Update it to the latest version and attack the malware by running a full system scan.

You can seriously damage your computer system if you try to perform a manual Crystal ransomware removal. The malware is highly sophisticated, and it uses various obfuscation techniques, so it is likely that you won’t find all of its files (unless you are an extremely skilled programmer). Use the guide provided below to clean your computer system.