CryLocker ransomware virus. How to delete? (Removal tutorial)

General review of the CryLocker ransomware virus

CryLocker ransomware virus pretends to be a fake institution called the Central Security Treatment Organization. Hundreds of victims received a frightening message that all their files were encrypted using a persistent military-grade crypto algorithm. CryLocker virus has similar characteristics as recent ransomware infections: after infiltrating computer’s system, it encrypts the data, changes desktop background and puts the ransom note. In the ransom note, crooks ask to pay 1.1 Bitcoin (500 GBP) in order to get their locked files back. However, they should hurry up, because, after a while, the price will be doubled. The hackers try their best to convince victims that there’s no other way to recover the files. Nevertheless, there’s no free and reputable file decryption tool created yet; we do not advise paying the ransom. Hackers rarely help victims to recover the files. They are only interested in taking the money. If your computer was infected with this malware, your first and the most important task is CryLocker removal. Only when you get rid of the virus, you can try to restore your data from backups. It’s the only possible option at the moment. The virus deletes Shadow Volume Copies that might be useful in data recovery.

Latest information shows that the CryLocker virus spreads via Sundown exploit kit. Once it gets inside, it starts file encryption and appends .cry file extension to all corrupted files. Then, it leaves a ransom notes Recovery_[random_characters].html and !Recovery_[random_characters].txt files, and changes desktop picture. The new desktop background has a threatening message that all users’ files were encrypted. It seems hackers want to motivate victims to pay the ransom by finishing the message with Albert’s Einstein’s’ quote. However, this virus is not a joke and you should take it seriously. CryLocker use Command and Control servers to collect information about computer’s operating system and determines user’s location with the help of nearby Service Set Identifier (SSID). Besides, it stores information about the victims on Imgur.com and Pastee.org. There’s possibility that hackers have secret purposes of gathering other personal or even private information. For your safety, you have to remove CryLocker from your PC immediately. For doing this, you might need professional anti-malware tools such as Reimage. 

How does the ransomware spread?

Usually, ransomware type viruses spread via spam emails. Infected emails often have attachments. The crooks convince victims to open the attachment, and once they do it, the virus sneaks inside. If you want to avoid CryLocker malware and other ransomware viruses, you should be careful with your emails. Do not open any spam emails or emails which have an unknown sender. Moreover, the crooks might pretend to be representatives from an official and reliable institution. So, you have to be very careful and attentive, if you receive a suspicious email that encourages you to open the attached file. According to the latest information, the virus spreads via Sundown exploit kit. Also, if you want to protect your computer, you have to pay attention to software downloads and installation, stay away from suspicious advertisements and install a powerful antivirus program.

How to remove CryLocker from the PC?

Ransomware viruses are one of the most dangerous and strongest viruses. So, their elimination is not an easy task. For CryLocker removal you have to use a powerful anti-malware program. If you don’t have any, we recommend installing Reimage or Malwarebytes. Before running a full system scan, you have to update your antivirus program. However, this malware can block security programs and prevent from downloading or updating them. Under these circumstances, you should our step-by-step guide how to remove CryLocker manually. When you eliminate the virus, don’t forget to scan your computer with an anti-malware program.

Reimage is recommended to remove virus damage. Reimage scans the entire computer system and checks whether it is infected with spyware/malware or not. If you want to remove computer threats and secure your computer system, you should consider buying the licensed version of Reimage.
You can find more details about this program in Reimage review.