How to remove C*nt Ransomware and decrypt .c*nt files

What is C*nt Ransomware

C*nt Ransomware, a variant of the notorious Dharma family, is a malicious program designed to encrypt files on infected systems and extort ransom from victims. It infiltrates devices through methods such as vulnerable RDP services, phishing emails, and malicious downloads. Once inside the system, it methodically works to encrypt files, changing their extensions to end with .c*nt, along with a unique victim ID and the attackers’ email address. For example, a file formerly named 1.jpg could become 1.jpg.id-7GCNA64X.[d**kdriver777@cock.li].c*nt. The ransomware utilizes robust encryption algorithms typically found in Dharma ransomware variants, which can be a combination of symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, making unauthorized decryption virtually impossible without the specific decryption key held by the attackers.

After encrypting the files, info.txt is created in each affected directory, containing a ransom note that explains the predicament and demands payment in Bitcoin for file restoration. Additionally, a pop-up window reiterates the ransom demands and provides detailed instructions on how to purchase and transfer Bitcoin. Victims are prompted to test the decryption on a few small files before making any payments, emphasizing that third-party intervention or tampering with the files could render them permanently inaccessible. Currently, there are no known decryption tools available for C*nt Ransomware. Thus, decrypting .c*nt files without the unique decryption key provided by the cybercriminals remains unfeasible. It is highly advised against paying the ransom, as this not only supports illegal activities but also provides no guarantee that the files will be decrypted. The recommended course of action includes isolating the infected device, reporting the incident to authorities, and restoring files from secure backups if available.

How C*nt Ransomware infects computers

C*nt Ransomware, a variant of the Dharma ransomware family, primarily infiltrates computers through vulnerable Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) services, often utilizing brute-force and dictionary attacks to gain unauthorized access. Additionally, it spreads through phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links, which, when opened, trigger the infection process. The ransomware may also be bundled with software downloaded from unofficial or compromised sources. Once executed, C*nt Ransomware encrypts files on both local and network-shared drives, appending a unique ID, the attackers’ email, and the “.c*nt” extension to each file. To secure persistence, the malware copies itself to system directories and modifies registry keys, ensuring it runs at startup and deletes Volume Shadow Copies to hinder file recovery.

1. Download C*nt Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .c*nt 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 C*nt Ransomware

C*nt Ransomware files:


info.txt
{randomname}.exe


C*nt Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .c*nt files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .c*nt 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 .c*nt 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 C*nt 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 .c*nt 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 C*nt 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. C*nt 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