CryptXXX Ransomware, probably one of the most dangerous malicious software programs, became even more dangerous. Now it scrambles file names and extensions of encrypted files. Making it impossible to distinguish the files.
CryptXXX has been rampaging since April 2016, attacking Windows operating systems. Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10 were targeted. The malicious software encrypts your data. After the encryption is complete the program changes your desktop wallpaper. Instead, a message notifying you about the infection and “kindly” offering you assistance. The assistance in decrypting the files will cost you slightly more than £1000 (2.4 bitcoins).
CryptXXX is not yet able to scan your network for all available shares. However, it will locate mapped network drives and encrypt them. The program does not have an ability to “multiply” and spread all over your network, but will encrypt everything that it can access from an infected computer.
It is known that CryptXXX attempts to delete all shadow copies after infection. Yet this operation is not always successful. The chance is slim, but you could restore your files using shadow backup. Now it may take you ages to locate this file in the first place. This tactic also complicates detection of infection on the early stage, since the filenames are constantly changing. Previously, some security programs were able to look for certain file extensions and file names typically created by CryptXXX in the past and identify the infection. Now this approach is no longer valid.
Unfortunately, there is no way of getting your files back without paying the ransom if you were infected by the latest version of CryptXXX. That is unless you have previously set up a backup of your system. You didn’t have a backup on the moment of infection? We recommend to make an image of your hard drive, format your computer and reinstall Windows, and wait for better times. Refer to your local professionals, such as London Laptop and Computer Repair Service, Bits and PCs, for assistance in setting up backup, creating an image of a hard drive, or reinstalling Windows on your PC.