How to remove CryptData Ransomware and decrypt .cryptdata files

What is CryptData Ransomware

CryptData Ransomware is a notorious strain of malware known for its ability to encrypt victims’ files, rendering them inaccessible, and then demanding a ransom for their release. This malicious software is part of the MedusaLocker family, which employs sophisticated file encryption techniques. When it infiltrates a system, it methodically encrypts a wide range of files and appends the .cryptdata extension to each affected file, altering filenames such as document.txt into document.txt.cryptdata. This adds an additional layer of complexity for the victim, as accessing these files without the correct decryption key becomes impossible. CryptData Ransomware uses a combination of RSA and AES encryption algorithms, both of which are exceedingly difficult to crack without the decryption key usually held by the attackers. Intrusions are accompanied by a ransom note typically named RETURN_DATA.html, placed prominently on the desktop of the compromised device.

This note includes the demands of the cybercriminals, typically warning against using third-party decryption tools under the threat of permanent data loss. Victims are often instructed to contact the attackers through provided email addresses and warned that failure to comply within a certain timeframe will result in an increased ransom price. Unfortunately, there are currently no available publicly-verified decryption tools for this ransomware variant, making it extremely challenging to decrypt .cryptdata files without paying the ransom. Despite this, the cybersecurity community strongly advises against paying, as it does not guarantee file recovery and further motivates these illicit practices. Instead, affected users are encouraged to report the incident to authorities and explore professional cybersecurity services for guidance on navigating the attack and exploring potential recovery options, including data recovery tools that do not require the specific decryption key.

How CryptData Ransomware infects computers

CryptData Ransomware, part of the MedusaLocker family, infiltrates computers using various deceptive methods favored by cybercriminals. One of the most common techniques involves phishing emails, which are crafted to appear legitimate and often contain malicious attachments or links that, once clicked, initiate the download of the ransomware. Additionally, attackers exploit vulnerabilities in software or operating systems, embedding the ransomware in compromised websites, pirated software, and unauthorized cracking tools. Users who visit infected websites or download malicious files from peer-to-peer networks, such as torrents, are at high risk of infection. Another vector for CryptData’s spread is through malicious advertisements, known as malvertising, and infected USB drives that automatically execute the ransomware upon connection. By employing these tactics, CryptData effectively bypasses traditional security measures, leading to the encryption of files and subsequent ransom demands.

1. Download CryptData Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .cryptdata 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 CryptData Ransomware

CryptData Ransomware files:


RETURN_DATA.html
{randomname}.exe


CryptData Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .cryptdata files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .cryptdata 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 .cryptdata 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 CryptData 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 .cryptdata 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 CryptData 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. CryptData 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