Cryptolocker3 Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The malware developer staffttt has created a new malware threat called CryptoLocker3 Ransomware which impersonates the famous CryptoLocker family. Our removal guide will show you how you can remove active infections from your computer and protect your computer from related viruses.

CryptoLocker3 Ransomware Description

Security experts have uncovered a new virus threat which is known as the CryptoLocker3 Ransomware made by the computer developer staffttt. The malware poses as a strain of the CryptoLocker family however it is unrelated to them.

Like other similar viruses it follows the typical ransomware infection pattern – encrypts target user data, displays a ransomware note and extorts the victim for the payment.

CryptoLocker3 ransomware includes an encryption module that targets specific user files and encrypts them with the AES cipher. The compromised files receive the .cryptolocker extension. The following types of extensions are the main targets:

.bmp, .doc, .docx, .gif, .jpg, .jpeg, .htm, .html, .pdf, .png, .pub, .txt, .xls, .xlsx, .pps, .ppsx, .ppt, .pptx, .pub, .xml and etc.

Other types of data include MS Office documents, PDF files, database files, various multimedia (audio, photo, video) and others.

The ransomware developer has crafted two versions of the ransomware note which is used to extort the computer victims alongside with a screen locker function which blocks the user’s screen and prohibits any other activity. The first version displays the following message:

Your Personal files are encrypted!
Your personal files encryption produced on this computer photos, videos, documents, etc. Encryption was produced using a unique public key RSA-2048 generated for this computer.
To decrypt files you need to obtain the private key.
The single copy of the private key, which will allow to decrypt the files located on a secret server on the Internet, the server will destroy the key after a time specified in this window. After that, nobody and never will be able to restore files…
To obtain the private key for this computer, which will automatically decrypt files, you need to pay 0,5 bitcoin.
You can easily delete this software, but know that without it, you-will never be able to get your original files back.
Disable your antivirus to prevent the removal of this software.
For more information on how to buy and send bitcoins, click ‘Pay with Bitcoin’
To open a list of encoded files, click ‘Show files’
Private key will be destroyed on 31/12/2016
button ‘Show files’
button ‘Pay with Bitcoin’

Another version of the ransomware note reads the following:

Your Personal files are encrypted!
Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency where creation and transfer of bitcoins is based on an open-source cryptographic protocol that is independent of any central autority.
Bitcoms can be transferred through a computer or smartphone without an intermediate financial institution.
If you do not have Bitcoins, you must exchange them, we recommended:
xxxxs://www.bitstamp.net
xxxxs://www.coinbase.com
Also see information about buying here.
xxxx://howtobuybitcoins.info
Send 0.5 BTC to Bitcoin address: 15PCcoNeo***
Also, you can directly exchange Bitcoins to this address. This is a private address associated with this order.
After 4-6 confirmations of your bitcoin transaction (takes up to 30 min), this software will automatically decrypt your files. Make sure that your internet connection active, and do not close this windows.
Private key will be destroyed on 31/12/2016
button ‘Show files’
button ‘Pay with Bitcoin’

CryptoLocker3 Ransomware Distribution

The CryptoLocker3 Ransomware malware is distributed mainly through spam email messages and infected software installers and updates. The first strains were detected in December 2016 and the virus mainly targets English-speaking users.

Other ways of getting infected is through software updates targeted by exploit kits. Most of the infected binaries impersonate legitimate software. This is why we advice everyon not to use any untrusted download sites or P2P networks where such threats are spread.

Cryptolocker3 Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Cryptolocker3 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 Cryptolocker3 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