How to remove Govcrypt Ransomware and decrypt .govcrypt files

What is Govcrypt Ransomware

Govcrypt Ransomware is an emerging crypto-malware threat that belongs to the Chaos ransomware family, following the typical methods of modern file-locking viruses. Upon successful infiltration, it systematically encrypts a wide array of file types on the victim’s machine and appends the distinctive .govcrypt extension to every compromised file, thereby rendering documents, images, and databases inaccessible. Users will quickly notice previously familiar files like photo.jpg altered into photo.jpg.govcrypt, indicating successful encryption. To pressurize victims into compliance, the malware also modifies the desktop wallpaper and places a ransom note called read_it.txt right onto the desktop. This message demands payment in Bitcoin and claims to offer free decryption for up to three files as proof, while providing cybercriminal contact details to facilitate negotiation. Govcrypt utilizes strong asymmetric or symmetric cryptographic algorithms typical of Chaos-based ransomware, ensuring that unauthorized decryption is virtually impossible without access to a unique key kept by the attackers. The ransom note is uncompromising—pay up, it says, or lose access to your files—and its location on your desktop makes its threat impossible to ignore.

Currently, no public decryption tools exist that can help victims recover files encrypted by Govcrypt without the attackers’ mediation. The highly effective encryption process means that attempting to open or modify .govcrypt files is fruitless unless the original decryption key is obtained, which is only offered by the criminals after ransom payment—a route strongly discouraged by security experts. Recovery, therefore, is contingent on having secure and clean backups stored on external or cloud devices, removed prior to infection. Security communities and anti-malware projects like No More Ransom occasionally release decryptors for flawed ransomware, but as of now, none support Govcrypt. Attempts to use third-party decryptors or salvage tools may further corrupt your data, so any steps toward potential recovery without proper guidance should be avoided. Effective removal of the ransomware itself is possible through trusted security software, but this only prevents additional file encryption and does not unlock already-affected files. Users are advised to report the incident to appropriate cybercrime authorities and focus on improving future resilience by maintaining reliable backups and practicing safe browsing habits. Paying the ransom rarely guarantees restoration and perpetuates criminal activities; patience for future decryption development and a proactive security posture offer the most prudent path forward.

How Govcrypt Ransomware infects computers

Govcrypt Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through deceptive online tactics, exploiting users’ vulnerabilities. It often arrives disguised as legitimate files or through malicious attachments in phishing emails, enticing users to unknowingly activate the malware. Once executed, Govcrypt encrypts files on the victim’s system, appending a “.govcrypt” extension to each, rendering them inaccessible. The ransomware is also distributed via drive-by downloads, where unsuspecting users visit compromised or malicious websites, triggering an automatic download. Additionally, it spreads through compromised software updates and fake software cracks, harnessing users’ attempts to bypass software licensing. This multifaceted approach makes Govcrypt a formidable threat, requiring users to exercise extreme caution with email attachments, downloads, and software updates to prevent infection.

1. Download Govcrypt Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .govcrypt 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 Govcrypt Ransomware

Govcrypt Ransomware files:


read_it.txt
{randomname}.exe


Govcrypt Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .govcrypt files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .govcrypt 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 .govcrypt 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 Govcrypt 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 .govcrypt 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 Govcrypt 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. Govcrypt 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