How to remove CryptNet Ransomware and decrypt encrypted files

What is CryptNet Ransomware

CryptNet Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on infected computers and demands a ransom payment for the decryption key. It is a new ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) that emerged in April 2023 and is known for its efficiency in file encryption. The ransomware is written in the .NET programming language and is obfuscated using .NET Reactor to evade detection. Upon encrypting files, CryptNet appends a random five-character extension to the original filenames, making them easily identifiable as being compromised by this specific ransomware. CryptNet uses a combination of 256-bit AES in CBC mode and 2048-bit RSA encryption algorithms to lock files. This dual encryption method ensures that the files are securely encrypted and cannot be decrypted without the unique keys held by the attackers. After encryption, CryptNet drops a ransom note named RESTORE-FILES-[random_string].txt on the victim’s desktop. The note informs victims of the encryption and provides instructions on how to pay the ransom to recover the files. It also includes a unique decryption ID and may offer a free decryption test to prove the attackers’ ability to decrypt the files.

As of the knowledge cutoff date, there are no publicly available decryption tools that can decrypt files encrypted by CryptNet Ransomware without the attackers’ private key. Decryption is typically not possible without the attackers’ assistance, and paying the ransom does not guarantee that the decryption key or tools will be provided. In case of an infection, it is recommended to disconnect the infected device from the internet, use a reputable anti-malware tool to clean the system and restore files from backups if available.

CryptNet Ransomware (wallpaper)

How CryptNet Ransomware infects computers

CryptNet can infect computers through various methods, including phishing emails, malicious downloads, and exploiting vulnerabilities in software. Once executed on a system, it begins the encryption process. To prevent infection by CryptNet or any ransomware, users should regularly back up their data, use updated antivirus and anti-malware software, be cautious when opening emails or downloading files from unknown sources and keep software and operating systems up to date.

1. Download CryptNet Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for encrypted 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 CryptNet Ransomware

CryptNet Ransomware files:


RESTORE-FILES-[random_string].txt
{randomname}.exe


CryptNet Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore encrypted files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

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

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 encrypted 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 CryptNet 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 encrypted files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose 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.

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose 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 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 CryptNet Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Dashboard

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Alert

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Blocked

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.

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. CryptNet 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.