Crypt0 HT Ransomware

What is Crypt0 HT Ransomware?

Crypt0 HT Ransomware is supposed to be a malicious file-encrypting program, but currently, it looks like the threat can no longer lock any files. Our researchers at Anti-spyware-101.com are saying it is probably because the malware was disconnected from its Command and Control (C&C) server. However, if you encountered it some time ago, it is entirely possible the infection could have locked most of your files. If you are still wondering whether it is a good idea to pay the ransom and get the needed decryption tools from the malicious program’s creators, we would advise against it. If the Crypt0 HT Ransomware’s server is actually down, all the unique decryption keys required for the decryption process could have been deleted and without them, it might be impossible to unlock any data even with a decryption tool. Therefore, we think it might be smarter to erase the malware. If you think it would be wiser to get rid of the threat as well, you can remove it with the steps we will add at the end of this report or with a legitimate antimalware tool.

Where does Crypt0 HT Ransomware come from?

It appears to be Crypt0 HT Ransomware might have been spread via infected PDF documents sent to users via email. Thus, if you still cannot understand how the malicious program was able to enter the system, you should try to remember whether you did not open any doubtful email attachments lately. Since this is still one of the most popular ways to distribute ransomware, we would advise users always to be extra cautious when it comes to emails received from unknown sources. In situations when there are doubts about such data it would be best to check it with a trustworthy antimalware tool, or if it does not seem to be of high importance, the user could simply erase the suspicious email.

How does Crypt0 HT Ransomware work?

Our researchers report it can encrypt files in almost all directories except the ones related to the computer’s operating system or other programs (%PROGRAMFILES%, %WINDIR%, and %PROGRAMFILES(x86)%). What’s more, it appears to be the malicious program encrypts user’s data with a secure cryptosystem known as AES-256. Mostly, the infection targets files that could be irreplaceable, e.g., photographs, videos, various documents, archives, and so on. Quite often such threats not only encrypt user’s data but also marks it by placing a second extension next to the original one. In this case, Crypt0 HT Ransomware’s locked files could be marked with an extension called .Crypt0, but since the sample we tested did not work correctly it is difficult to say.

Once the user’s files become encrypted, Crypt0 HT Ransomware should show a window with a picture of a lock and a short message saying: “You have been victim of Crypt0 Ransomware.” Also, it claims all of your important files were locked and asks to pay a ransom after you learn how to do so while reading a ransom note located on your Desktop. It should be an HTML file called READ_IT.html. Users who open it should see instructions on how to transfer around 450 US dollars to the hackers’ account. For paying the asked sum, they may tell you they will send you a decryption key and a decryption tool so you could unlock affected files. As we already explained it would be risky to deal with them, and instead of it you could restore your data from backup copies.

How to erase Crypt0 HT Ransomware?

If you feel experienced enough, you could try to eliminate Crypt0 HT Ransomware manually while completing the steps you can find a bit below this paragraph. Needless to say, if the task appears to be a bit too complicated it might be best to employ a legitimate antimalware tool and do a full system scan. After the scan the tool should display a report and a deletion button; just click it, and all detections should be eliminated.

Remove Crypt0 HT Ransomware

1. Tap Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
2. Launch Task Manager and go to Processes.
3. Search for a process related to the malware.
4. Mark the suspicious process and click End Task.
5. Press Win+E.
6. Check the following paths:
   %USERPROFILE%Desktop
   %USERPROFILE%Downloads
   %TEMP%
7. Locate the file responsible for infecting the system.
8. Right-click the suspicious file and press Delete.
9. Go to Desktop and get rid of READ_IT.html.
10. Exit the File Explorer.
11. Empty your Recycle bin.
12. Reboot the device. Download Removal Tool100% FREE spyware scan and
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Stop these Crypt0 HT Ransomware Processes: