How to remove Cash Ransomware and decrypt .CASH files

What is Cash Ransomware

Cash Ransomware, known for its severe damage potential, is a variant of the notorious Crysis/Dharma ransomware family. This malicious software operates by encrypting users’ files and demanding a ransom for their decryption. Once encrypted, files are typically renamed to include a unique victim ID and the email address of the attackers, appending the .CASH extension to the original file name. For instance, a document named report.docx may be transformed into report.docx.id-{random-id}.[cryptocash@aol.com].CASH. Users often discover they have been compromised when they encounter a ransom note titled FILES ENCRYPTED.txt on their desktop, which provides instructions on how to negotiate with the cybercriminals and retrieve their data. Ransomware variants like CASH can leverage advanced cryptographic algorithms, making unauthorized file decryption virtually impossible without the appropriate keys.

Decryption options for .CASH files are notably limited due to the sophisticated encryption mechanisms employed by ransomware developers. Most victims find themselves in a challenging position, as tools or services that can decrypt files without paying the ransom are rarely available, especially for well-guarded ransomware like CASH. The ransom note typically instructs victims to contact the attackers via specified email addresses for further instructions on payment and recovery. Engaging with the attackers can often lead to disappointment, as there are many documented cases of victims paying the ransom without recovering their files. In the absence of reliable decryption tools, victims are encouraged to restore files from backups if available. Preventative measures, such as maintaining regular backups on external drives or using cloud storage with versioning features, can mitigate the impact of ransomware infections like CASH. Ultimately, users should exercise extreme caution and avoid contacting the attackers, as this can lead to additional risks and no guarantee of data recovery.

How Cash Ransomware infects computers

CASH ransomware, part of the notorious Crysis/Dharma malware family, typically infects computers through various deceptive methods. One of the most common vectors is via malicious email attachments, often disguised as important documents or official communications, which, when opened, trigger the ransomware installation. Additionally, cybercriminals exploit untrustworthy download sources, including torrent sites and unofficial software repositories, where users may unknowingly download bundled malware alongside legitimate applications. Another prevalent infection method involves the use of trojans, which can silently install ransomware while facilitating further malware infections. Fake software updates and compromised websites also serve as entry points, allowing attackers to exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Consequently, users must exercise caution with unsolicited communications and ensure that their systems are equipped with up-to-date security measures to mitigate the risk of such infections.

1. Download Cash Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .CASH files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like Cash Ransomware

Cash Ransomware files:


FILES ENCRYPTED.txt
{randomname}.exe


Cash Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .CASH files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .CASH files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .CASH files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with Cash Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .CASH files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like Cash Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. Cash Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro