What is Win32/Crowti?
The term Win32/Crowti is a generic term used to refer to several data encryption programs, which are categorized as ransomware. The term Win32/Crowti includes the Cryptowall malware and the Cryptodefence malware, which operate in a similar manner, but have some very distinctive features, too. The removal of Win32/Crowti is a must, and the sooner you do take action, the sooner you can start using the machine as usual.
Even though the ransomware infections slightly differ, they access the system in similar ways. The Win32/Crowti malware can infect the computer via spam emails, phishing website, freeware websites, etc. Hence, you should avoid browsing unsecured websites and installing programs that have a bad reputation.
The latest analyses of the Win32/Crowti malware have shown that United States, Canada, France, and Australia have been affected the most.
How does the Win32/Crowti work?
Once installed, the infection encrypts certain files and restricts the user’s access to the system. Screen lockers such as Win32/Crowti are known to be capable of encrypting numerous files, including the most popular ones, such .doc, .jpg, .png, .xls, to mention just a few. All those files are locked using the RSA-2048 encryption system. When your personal files are encrypted, the Cryptowall malware creates three files containing guidelines on how to decrypt your files. Those files are DECRYPT_INSTRUCTION.TXT, DECRYPT_INSTRUCTION.HTML, and DECRYPT_INSTRUCTION. In the case of Cryptodefender, similar files are created, and they include How_Decrypt.url, How_Decrypt.txt, and How_Decrypt.html.
In order to regain access to personal information, the user is required to create an electronic wallet, purchase 1.19 Bitcoins, which equals $500 USD, and send the money to a certain account. We advise you against paying the money required because you are not guaranteed that the attackers will decrypt your files. Bitcoin is an electronic currency created in 2009 by an unknown person. This currency is generated, or “mined”, by enabling computers to solve complex equations, which consumes a lot of computer resources. The users of this currency can make payments online and pay for various services and send bitcoins to each other using mobile applications or computers. Interestingly, bitcoin transactions are recorded in public logs, but the names of the sellers are never used – only their wallets’ IDs.
In order to decrypt your files, you need a special key, which is in the possession of the attackers. It is important to note that after encrypting your files, the so-called Win32/Crowti malware is automatically removed from the computer, which means that your only worry is the decryption of personal data.
How prevent the Win32/Crowti malware?
First of all, it is important to note that it is advisable to back up your personal information on a regular basis so that you can restore it whenever it is possible. If you do not have the private key for decryption, you cannot restore your data. In order to prevent similar occurrences in the future, you should keep the system protected against malware and spyware, and our team at Anti-Spyware-101.com recommends using SpyHunter, which easily removes Trojan horses, browser hijackers, adware programs, ransomware, fake anti-virus programs, and many other threats.
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