How to remove HexaCrypt Ransomware and decrypt your files

What is HexaCrypt Ransomware

HexaCrypt Ransomware represents a new threat in the digital landscape, maliciously designed to encrypt victim files and extort payment for their decryption. After infiltrating a system, this ransomware appends a string of random characters to affected files, which alters their extensions, leaving them unopenable without the decryption key. For instance, a file named example.jpg could be renamed to example.jpg.8s43uq12, rendering it inaccessible. The attackers leverage advanced encryption algorithms, making it nearly impossible for victims to regain access to their data without a decryption tool provided by the cybercriminals themselves. Alongside the file encryption, HexaCrypt drops a ransom note file named [random_string].READ_ME.txt in various directories, presenting the victim with instructions on how to proceed with the ransom payment. The note often demands a specific amount in Bitcoin and provides a limited timeframe for compliance, under the threat of permanent data loss or public release of the stolen files.

Currently, no automated decryption tools exist to counteract the sophisticated encryption methods employed by HexaCrypt, which adds another layer of distress for victims. Relying on cybercriminals to provide a decryption key after payment is risky and not recommended, as there’s no guarantee of cooperation. Informed users are advised to seek out reputable sources, such as the No More Ransom Project, to check for any updates on potential decryptors. However, prevention remains the most effective strategy against such ransomware. Regular backing up of data on offline or cloud platforms can significantly mitigate the risks. Should a decryption tool become available, it would likely be distributed by credible cybersecurity organizations rather than through illicit channels. Until then, maintaining cybersecurity best practices and seeking professional guidance in case of infection are pivotal steps in managing the threat poised by HexaCrypt Ransomware.

How HexaCrypt Ransomware infects computers

HexaCrypt Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through deceptive tactics that exploit vulnerabilities in user behavior and system defenses. One common method is via phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links, tricking users into downloading infected files or visiting compromised websites. Additionally, this ransomware can spread through malicious advertisements on untrustworthy sites and deceptive pop-ups that prompt users to click unsafe links. Another avenue of infection involves downloading pirated software or using illegal activation tools, which often come bundled with harmful code. HexaCrypt can also leverage known software vulnerabilities to execute without user intervention, especially in systems lacking the latest security updates. Once inside, it begins encrypting files, making them inaccessible and demanding a ransom for decryption, while potentially spreading across networks to maximize its impact.

1. Download HexaCrypt 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 HexaCrypt Ransomware

HexaCrypt Ransomware files:


[random_string].READ_ME.txt
{randomname}.exe


HexaCrypt 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 HexaCrypt 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 HexaCrypt 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. HexaCrypt 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.