How to remove Crynox Ransomware and decrypt .crynox files

What is Crynox Ransomware

Crynox Ransomware, a notorious threat in the realm of cybercrime, is a malicious software variant designed to encrypt a victim’s files and demand a ransom for their release. This ransomware is based on the Chaos ransomware variant, using sophisticated encryption algorithms to ensure that the victim’s data is inaccessible. Once infiltrated, Crynox appends the .crynox extension to the affected files, drastically impacting a user’s ability to access their crucial documents, spreadsheets, photos, and more. The encryption process usually employs a combination of RSA and AES, both recognized for their robust security, which presents a significant challenge to reverse engineer or decrypt without the correct keys. Victims typically encounter a ransom note titled read_it.txt placed on their desktop or in all folders containing encrypted files. This note provides instructions from the attackers, often demanding payment in Bitcoin to retrieve the decryption key, and urging victims to follow specific instructions to avoid data loss.

Unfortunately, as of now, there are no publicly available decryption tools that can safely and effectively decrypt files encrypted by Crynox Ransomware. The complex nature of the encryption algorithms means that without a flaw in the ransomware’s encryption process or the generosity of the developers releasing the decryption keys, users may find themselves in a precarious situation. It is generally advised against paying the ransom, as there is no guarantee that cybercriminals will uphold their end of the bargain. Those impacted by Crynox should explore recovery options such as restoring from recent backups or using file recovery software as a potential option. If backups are unavailable, affected users can monitor cybersecurity forums and trusted ransomware discussion sites, where developments in decryption efforts might be shared. Meanwhile, employing strong preventive measures such as updating software regularly, maintaining offline backups, and employing reputable security solutions remains pivotal in averting such ransomware threats.

How Crynox Ransomware infects computers

Crynox Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through deceptive tactics that exploit user behavior and system vulnerabilities. One common method is through malicious email attachments or links, often disguised as legitimate communications, which unsuspecting users open, triggering the ransomware download. Additionally, cybercriminals deploy Crynox via compromised websites and malicious advertisements, where simply visiting the site can initiate the infection. Peer-to-peer networks and downloads from unverified sources also serve as conduits for this ransomware, as users may unknowingly download infected files. Furthermore, Crynox can exploit security gaps in outdated operating systems and software, allowing it to slip past defenses. Once inside a system, it encrypts files, renames them with a “.crynox” extension, and demands a ransom for decryption, making prevention and timely updates crucial to thwart this threat.

1. Download Crynox Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .crynox 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 Crynox Ransomware

Crynox Ransomware files:


read_it.txt
{randomname}.exe


Crynox Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .crynox files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .crynox 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 .crynox 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 Crynox 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 .crynox 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 Crynox 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. Crynox 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