What is GhostCrypt Ransomware?
Anti-Spyware-101.com researchers detect two versions of the malicious GhostCrypt Ransomware. These versions are easily identified by the extensions given to the files that this threat encrypts. One version attaches the .CWall4 extension, and the other one uses the .Z81928819 extension. It is very possible that different versions of the same threat will emerge in the future because these ones do not seem fully developed, unless their creators intended them to work the way they do. These versions were created using the source code of the Hidden Tear ransomware, a ransomware that was created by malware analysts to learn about this type of malware. Needless to say, this source code could be used to develop other kinds of infections, which is why you have to take all security measures to protect your operating system once you remove GhostCrypt Ransomware. Of course, if important files were encrypted by this infection, it is unlikely that you will rush with the removal of this threat.
Do you know what GhostCrypt Ransomware is?
GhostCrypt Ransomware can encrypt all kinds of files, including Word Documents, JPG image files, MP3 audio files, AVI and WMA video files, etc. This is done using the AES encryption algorithm. It is important to note that this infection does not install itself onto the computer. Instead, it is the launcher of this program that is responsible for initiating the encryption of your files. This launcher is most likely to be camouflaged as a harmless file, and you might find it attached to a spam email. It might also be introduced to you via file-sharing sites. Once you open this file, the encryption begins, and a text file (READ_THIS_FILE.txt) is created to provide you with the information that cyber criminals what you to know. This text file is very misleading because it blames CryptoLocker for encrypting your personal files. This malicious ransomware is very dangerous, but it is not the one that has attacked your PC, and its name is only used to mislead you. It is very possible that you will research CryptoLocker instead of the real infection, and this might set you back. Nonetheless, if the READ_THIS_FILE.txt file on your Desktop says “Files have been encrypted by CryptoLocker,” chances are that it is GhostCrypt Ransomware.
The text file that GhostCrypt Ransomware creates includes a link that redirects you to a page that shows how to purchase Bitcoins. If you are not familiar with this virtual currency, it might be tricky for you to interact with it. You are asked to pay a ransom of 2 Bitcoins, and this is an extremely big sum, even if it does not look like it. In reality, it translates to nearly $900! This is not the only reason why we do not recommend paying this ransom. Our researchers warn that this infection is unlikely to decrypt files when you make the payment. First of all, this infection does generate an indicator for the victim. Second, it does not seem to create a decryption key either. It is most likely that this version of the malicious ransom is in its testing stages, and its creators are not even concerned about releasing your personal files. We are hopeful that your files are backed up, and you are not stuck with this threat.
How to eliminate GhostCrypt Ransomware
GhostCrypt Ransomware is a malicious infection that can take over your files. The worst part is that this infection was created by cyber criminals who do not seem to be concerned about file decryption. Most ransomware infections that we have researched in the past did keep their promises to decrypt files if the ransom was paid. Of course, this does not mean that we advise paying ransoms. In fact, we believe that this is the last resort. If your files are backed up, you are lucky, and you can erase the malicious ransomware without any worry. Simply erase the infection and transfer the files you need on your PC from your backup. When it comes to the removal process, we advise using anti-malware tools, but, if you want to proceed manually, you need to erase the launcher (the malicious file you downloaded) as well as the text file on the Desktop. Afterward, do not forget to scan your PC to see if you were successful.
Removal Guide
- Find the launcher of the malicious ransomware, right-click it, and select Delete.
- Right-click the READ_THIS_FILE.txt file on the Desktop and select Delete.
- Download a reliable malware scanner from http://www.anti-spyware-101.com/spyhunter .
- Scan your PC to check for leftovers.
tested removal of GhostCrypt Ransomware*
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