How to Remove and Decrypt GetCrypt Ransomware
First, download and install Malwarebytes to remove malware.
Then, download and install Emsisoft Decrypter for GetCrypt to decrypt files.
What is GetCrypt?
GetCrypt is ransomware that encrypts computer files, appends a random 4 character file extension to the files it encrypts, and demands a ransom payment to decrypt the files. One thing about GetCrypt ransomware that makes it unique is that it attempts to brute force network account credentials in order to encrypt files on shared networks.
GetCrypt uses military-grade encryption algorithms to encrypt files which will restrict access to them unless a decryption method is available. The virus searches determined folders and encrypts files that match determined file types such as .txt, .doc, .docx, .jpg, and .jpeg file types. When a file is encrypted by the GetCrypt virus, a random and victim-unique 4 character extension is added. For example, a file named test.png becomes test.ZSGH.
GetCrypt ransomware will also produce a text file named # decrypt my files #.txt in each folder it encrypted files in and on Windows desktop. The text file produced by the computer virus contains a ransom note that explains what happened and instructs victims to send an email message to getcrypt@cock.li to ‘get a decoder and original key to decrypt files.’ The virus will also change the Windows desktop background to a picture of a similar ransom note.
Ransom note example:
Attention! Your computer has been attacked by virus-encoder!
All your files are now encrypted using cryptographycalli strong aslgorithm.
Without the original key recovery is impossible.
Contacting the ransomware author and paying the ransom does not guarantee that your files will be recovered or that the computer virus will be removed. It is recommended to avoid contacting the party behind this ransomware or paying the fine unless you have absolutely no choice. Even then, it is recommended to avoid paying a fine when removal and decryption software may be readily available.
How is GetCrypt Ransomware Distributed?
At the current time, GetCrypt ransomware may get onto your computer via malicious advertisements that are typically located on compromised or malicious websites. The malicious advertisements direct victims to websites that host the RIG exploit kit and run malicious scripts that are used to exploit vulnerabilities on the computer. The kit will then execute GetCrypt ransomware and check Windows to see what the language is set to. If the language is set to Belarusian, Kazakh, Russian, or Ukrainian, the ransomware will terminate and not encrypt files on the computer.
Follow These Steps to Remove GetCrypt:
Step 1: Use Malwarebytes to Scan for Ransomware
Step 2: Use HitmanPro to Remove Remaining Trace Files
Step 3: Use CCleaner to Clean Your System and Update Programs
This GetCrypt virus removal tutorial was published to provide you with easy ransomware removal and file recovery steps that will help you secure your computer and get your files back. It is designed to be easy to follow, yet detailed to help you eradicate every single spec of malware on your computer.
Step 1: Use Malwarebytes to Scan for Ransomware
Use Malwarebytes to scan your computer for Ransomware and other malicious programs that may be on your system.
Why should you buy the premium version?
Malwarebytes Premium has real-time protection that automatically protects your computer and other devices from viruses, spyware, and malware. With Malwarebytes Premium you can stay ahead and safely browse the web with confidence.
2. Double click the executable file or icon, such as mb3-setup-1878.1878-3.7.1.2839.exe to begin installing the program.
3. When you have installed Malwarebytes, click the Scan Now button to begin scanning your computer.
4. When the scan is complete, click the Quarantine Selected button to remove all threats detected by Malwarebytes.
Step 2: Use HitmanPro to Remove Remaining Trace Files
Use HitmanPro to scan your computer for remaining trace files that may be leftover.
1. Download HitmanPro. Fill out the information on their website and download the executable file.
Why should you buy the full version?
HitmanPro is a little different than your usual security program. It goes beyond simply removing viruses, it completely eradicates all traces and remnants of the infection. HitmanPro is also designed to run alongside your Antivirus program which makes it a match up great with Malwarebytes Premium.
2. Double click the executable file or icon, such as HitmanPro.exe to begin installing the program.
3. When you have installed HitmanPro, click the Next button to begin scanning your computer.
4. When the scan is complete, click the Next button to remove all threats detected by HitmanPro.
Step 3: Use CCleaner to Clean Your System and Update Programs
Use CCleaner to clean your system, repair settings that may have been modified by malware, and update programs (if needed) so they’re current with the latest security patches. Outdated software can leave a computer system vulnerable, it is important to regularly update your Operating System and the programs on your machine to avoid any mishaps.
Why should you buy the professional version?
CCleaner Professional has the power of real-time automation, so your computer always stays clean, safe, and fast. CCleaner Pro bundles privacy protection, system cleaning, and more with outstanding customer service.
2. Double click the executable file or icon, such as ccsetup556.exe to begin installing the program.
3. When you have installed CCleaner, click the Analyze button to begin analyzing your system.
4. Once analyzation is complete, click the Run Cleaner button to clean your system.
5. Now, let’s run through the Tools section; Go to Tools.
6. Uninstall: Is there a program you missed uninstalling before? CCleaner can often show you programs that are hidden from the Control panel.
7. Software Updater: Are there any programs to update? Make sure to keep the programs on your computer up-to-date to avoid issues with security vulnerabilities.
8. Startup: Go through the Windows, Scheduled Tasks, and Context Menu tabs. Are there any suspicious startup keys enabled? If so, highlight them with your mouse and click the Delete button to remove them.
9. Browser Plugins: Go through the tabs for each browser installed on your computer. Are there any suspicious plugins installed? If so, highlight them with your mouse and click the Delete button to remove them.
10. Finally, let’s clean up the registry. Get out of the Tools area and go to Registry.
11. Click the Scan for Issues button and follow the instructions.
12. Once the registry scan is complete click the Fix selected Issues… button and follow the instructions to fill all the selected issues found in your computer’s registry.
Step 4: Secure Your Computer
It’s time to secure your computer to ensure that something like this is unlikely to happen again. Consider these best practices to provide a heightened layer of protection and privacy:
Use Antivirus with layered protection
Antivirus will real-time layered protection has the ability to stop emerging threats like ransom and hackers from gaining access to your computer, phone, or tablet. Antivirus programs also remove malware that is already on your computer, protect you from visiting malicious websites, stop known and unknown Ransomware attacks, and prevent the programs on your device from being used against you. Check out these highly recommended Antivirus programs to add a layer of security to your computer, phone, or tablet:
Use a VPN
Put up an indestructible wall around you and your data while your computer is connected to the internet. With a VPN you become anonymous over the internet and no one can determine who you are. This is an advantage when it comes to keeping eavesdroppers and hackers away from your data.
With a VPN your data is encrypted and when you connect to the internet your communications travel through a personal tunnel that can’t be penetrated or even logged by your VPN provider, ISP, or anyone else. No one can see what you’re doing and this doesn’t just include your Internet Service Provider, it includes hackers and government agencies.
Recommendations:
Step 5: Recover Your Files
- Download free decryption software for this ransomware here: Emsisoft Decrypter for GetCrypt
| NAME | DESCRIPTION | DOWNLOAD |
|---|---|---|
| Shadow Explorer | Restores lost or damaged files from Shadow Copies | Download (Free) |
| Photorec | Recovers lost files | Download (Free) |
| Recuva | Recovers lost files | Download (Free) | Buy |
Troubleshoot
There are other solutions to consider if you run into issues when removing GetCrypt from your computer.
System Restore
If a restore point has previously been established on your machine you will be able to perform a system restore in order to restore your machine to a date and time before it was infected. You will lose files on your computer that were obtained prior to the restore point.
There are several options to restore your computer. Most computers have their own restore software that can be found by performing a search. Additionally, computers that run the Windows Operating System have a default restore program that can also be found by performing a search.
A boot screen that can be used to access options to restore your computer can be reached by rebooting your computer and pressing the F8 key once the manufacture screen is displayed.
Recover To Factory Settings
A system recovery (or reset) will recover your computer to factory settings. You will lose the current programs and files on your computer.
There are several options to recover your computer to factory settings. Most computers have their own recovery software that can be found by performing a search. Additionally, computers that run the Windows Operating System have a default recovery program that can also be found by performing a search.
A boot screen that can be used to access options to restore your computer can be reached by rebooting your computer and pressing the F8 key once the manufacture screen is displayed.
