Learn all about the the XCrypt ransomware which is a new ransomware threat that uses the ICQ messaging platform in our removal guide.
| Name | XCrypt |
| File Extensions | Does not affect file types |
| Ransom | Varies |
| Solution #1 | You can skip all steps and remove XCrypt with the help of an anti-malware tool. |
| Solution #2 | XCrypt ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below. |
| Distribution | Spam Email Campaigns, malicious ads & etc. |
XCrypt Ransomware Description
The XCrypt ransomware is a new malware threat which has just been detected by the malware researcher Jakub Kroustek. At the moment we do not have much information about its features or structures, however we assume that the virus follows the typical behavior patterns by encrypting target user files and extorting the victims for a ransomware payment.
Upon infection the encryption engine is started which targets a predefined list of target user file types. In many cases it includes the most commonly accessed data – documents, music, photos, videos, configuration files, backup images and etc.
WHen this is complete a ransomware note is displayed to the victims which contains a message in Russian. A translated version of it in English reads the following:
Your computer has been compromised!
All of your files have been encrypted. Unfortunately for you, programmers and The Police cannot help you. To decrypt them back you need to contact the operators via ICQ.
IMPORTANT! Note our ICQ number 714 595 302. А window has been created on your Desktop. You can delete it and loose our contacts, which will result in the deletion of all of your files.
icq 714 595 302
Unlike other related viruses the XCrypt ransomware does not rename the affected files.
XCrypt Ransomware Distribution
The malware researcher who discovered the virus has posted that it is distributed as an executable file. Such types of malware are easily distributed using these popular methods:
Spam Email Messages – The computer criminals can opt to use various social engineering tricks to increase the infection ratio. The messages pose as legitimate documents or other types of files that may be of interest to the victims.
Software Installers – The XCrypt ransomware can be bundled in various software installers and update packages downloaded from hacked download sites or P2P networks like BitTorrent.
Dangerous Redirects – Various links, malicious ads and browser hijackers can lead to a malware infection by redirecting the users to a download site which may host the malware.
XCrypt Ransomware – How To Remove it and Prevent It From Coming Back
There are two ways of removal:
- With an anti-malware tool – this will also help prevention
- Manually – using the instructions below
XCrypt Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete XCrypt completely with a few mouse clicks.
STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.
- 1) Hit WIN Key + R
- 2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK
Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”
STEP II: Show Hidden Files
- 1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
- – Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option
3) Windows 8/ 10
- – Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option
4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button
STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes
- 1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it
STEP IV: Remove Completely XCrypt Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter
STEP V: Repair Windows Registry
- 1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys
Further help for Windows Registry repair
STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files
- 1) Use present backups
2) Restore your personal files using File History
- – Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar
- – Hit the “Restore” button
3) Using System Restore Point
- – Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps
STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures
- 1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.
SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter
