AiraCrop Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The AiraCrop is a new ransomware threat that is still under active investigation. Initial reports indicate that it might be related to the CrySiS ransomware family. Read our article to learn about the new malware and get instructions on how to remove infections from your computer.

AiraCrop Ransomware Description

The AiraCrop ransomware virus has been reported only a few hours ago by victims of the malware threat in various online communities. It is still under an active investigation and we have only limited information about its features and impact.

Some reports indicate that the ransomware might be related to the CrySiS malware family, however this is still not confirmed. The limited number of infections so far suggest that the distribution method employed by the hackers are software vulnerabilities (the ransomware is delivered through exploit kits) and spam email campaigns that feature links or contain infected binaries in the message contents. Upon infection the virus appends the “.airacropencrypted!” file name extension to the victim files. Unfortunately a complete list of the affected file extensions is not yet available.

Here are the contents of the ransomware note:

Encrypted Files!

All your files are encrypted. Using encryption AES 256-bit and RSA-2048-bit.
Making it impossible to recover the files without the correct private key.
If you are interested in getting is key, and retrieve your files
visit one of the links and enter your key;
https://6kaqkavh*******.onion.to/
https://6kaqkavh*******.onion.link/
https://mvy3kbqc*******.onion.to/
https://mvy3kbqc4*******.onion.link/
Alternative link:
http://6kaqkavh*******.onion
http://mvy3kbqc*******.onion
To access the alternate link is mandatory to use the TOR browser available on the link
https://www.torproject.org/download/download
Key:
D0809D7FF155EDB518345504C73B507C7A57E23B60D17DEE9F54C27*******

According to the note the AiraCrop ransomware uses the AES-256 and RSA-2048 cryptography ciphers to encrypt the victim files. No specific ransom sum is specified.

AiraCrop Ransomware Distribution

Limited information is available at the moment. User reports indicate that the primary sources of AiraCrop ransomware infections are through malicious binary files inserted in links or attachments in spam email campaigns. Exploit kits can also be used to install the ransomware, they use various software vulnerabilities that are compromised by the code.

AiraCrop Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete AiraCrop 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 AiraCrop 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