How to remove Crystal Rans0m Ransomware and decrypt your files

What is Crystal Rans0m Ransomware

Crystal Rans0m Ransomware represents a serious threat to computer users due to its dual capability of encrypting files and stealing information. This ransomware, written in the Rust programming language, stands out because it does not append any specific extension to the encrypted files, which can make it harder for victims to identify the infection. During the encryption process, the malware uses sophisticated algorithms, rendering files unusable without the corresponding decryption key. Upon encryption, a pop-up message appears on the victim’s screen, containing a ransom note that demands a payment of $50 in Monero (XMR) cryptocurrency. The note also provides a countdown timer to pressure the victim and instructs them to contact the attackers via the Session messaging app using a specified Session ID.

Unfortunately, no known decryption tools are available for Crystal Rans0m Ransomware, implying that victims have limited options besides hoping for third-party tools or backups. Encrypting files with robust cryptographic techniques, the ransomware makes it virtually impossible to decrypt the data without the unique decryption key held by the attackers. Hence, recovering encrypted files usually requires paying the ransom, although this is not recommended as it might encourage further criminal behavior and there is no guarantee that decryption will follow payment. The best approach to managing such ransomware is proactively isolating the infected device, reporting the attack to authorities, and seeking assistance from cybersecurity professionals. Regular backups and reliable security software are essential preventive measures to protect against such sophisticated threats.

How Crystal Rans0m Ransomware infects computers

Crystal Rans0m ransomware infects computers through various deceptive tactics employed by cybercriminals. One common method is embedding the ransomware in pirated software, cracking tools, or key generators, which unsuspecting users download and execute. Additionally, attackers often send phishing emails with malicious attachments or links that, when opened, initiate the ransomware download. Fake tech support scams, malicious ads, and compromised websites are also used to trick users into downloading the ransomware. Furthermore, vulnerabilities in outdated operating systems, peer-to-peer networks, and infected USB drives can be exploited to spread the malware. Once executed, Crystal Rans0m encrypts files and steals sensitive information, making it a formidable threat.

1. Download Crystal Rans0m 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 Crystal Rans0m Ransomware

Crystal Rans0m Ransomware files:


pop-up message
{randomname}.exe


Crystal Rans0m 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:

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 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 Crystal Rans0m 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.

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 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 Crystal Rans0m 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. Crystal Rans0m 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