Craxsrat Ransomware: Complete Guide to Decrypt .craxsrat Files

Craxsrat is a dangerous file-encrypting malware (ransomware) that targets Windows users. Once activated, it encrypts personal files using the RSA cryptographic algorithm and adds a “.craxsrat” extension to each filename. The malware then demands a $50 ransom in Bitcoin for decryption, threatening permanent data loss. Craxsrat creates a ransom note in a file named “HELP_DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES.txt,” instructing victims to contact the attackers via email. This guide provides detailed information about the threat and offers steps to remove the malware and potentially recover your files.

What is Craxsrat Ransomware?

Craxsrat is file-encrypting malware discovered by security researchers during a routine inspection of new submissions on the VirusTotal website. It specifically targets Windows users and locks their personal files using the RSA cryptographic algorithm. After the encryption process, files become inaccessible, and their original extensions are modified with the addition of “.craxsrat” (e.g., “photo.jpg” becomes “photo.jpg.craxsrat”).

Like most ransomware, Craxsrat aims to extort money from victims by holding their data hostage. The attackers demand a payment of $50 in Bitcoin cryptocurrency in exchange for a decryption tool. Such a small ransom amount is unusual for ransomware, which further decreases the likelihood that criminals will send the key after payment.

Threat Type:	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files Locker
Detection Names:	Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/Filecoder.CS), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan.MSIL.DelShad.gen), Microsoft (Ransom:MSIL/Ryzerlo.A)
Encrypted Files Extension:	.craxsrat
Ransom Note:	HELP_DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES.txt
Ransom Amount:	$50 in Bitcoin
Contact Method:	Email (ransombiz@tutamail.com)
Crypto Wallet Address:	172etnw7yrnrpbks8gzbj2j7tm87smfyrm (Bitcoin)
Distribution Methods:	Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads, fake updates
Potential Damage:	File encryption, data loss, privacy breach, additional malware installation

How Craxsrat Ransomware Works

Understanding the infection and encryption process can help you better protect your system. Here’s how Craxsrat typically operates:

File Encryption Process

Craxsrat targets many types of files that typically contain valuable user data:

• Documents: .doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .ppt, .pptx, .pdf, .rtf, .txt
• Images: .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .bmp, .gif, .tiff, .svg
• Audio/Video: .mp3, .mp4, .wav, .avi, .mov, .mkv
• Archives: .zip, .rar, .7z, .tar, .gz
• Database Files: .sql, .accdb, .mdb, .dbf
• Other Personal Files: .psd, .ai, .indd, .dwg, .csv

Once a file is encrypted, it cannot be opened with its corresponding application. For example, a JPG image will appear corrupted, and documents will display as unreadable or damaged.

Ransom Note Contents

The HELP_DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES.txt file created by Craxsrat typically contains the following information:

Technical Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

IoC Type	Value	Notes
File Hash (SHA-256)	4d0bf70b149e8bc0f6a93b369c9602489eea7f46cb408ad36e84fbc44282cc02	Main ransomware executable
Encrypted File Extension	.craxsrat	Added to original file extensions
Ransom Note	HELP_DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES.txt	Created in each affected directory
Contact Method	Email: ransombiz@tutamail.com	Communication channel with attackers
Crypto Wallet Address	172etnw7yrnrpbks8gzbj2j7tm87smfyrm	Bitcoin address for ransom payment
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/Filecoder.CS), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan.MSIL.DelShad.gen), Microsoft (Ransom:MSIL/Ryzerlo.A)	How various antivirus products identify this threat

Steps to Remove Craxsrat Ransomware

If your computer has been infected with Craxsrat ransomware, follow these steps to remove the malware from your system:

1. Disconnect from Networks

First, disconnect your computer from all networks (Wi-Fi, Ethernet) to prevent potential spread to other devices and stop any ongoing communication with attackers’ servers:

1. Physically disconnect any Ethernet cables
2. Turn off Wi-Fi by disabling the wireless adapter (you can use airplane mode in Windows)
3. If you are in a corporate network, immediately notify the IT security team

2. Remove Craxsrat Using Anti-Malware Software

To safely remove Craxsrat ransomware from your system without causing additional damage, we recommend using a professional anti-malware tool such as Trojan Killer:

Step	Instructions
1. Download and Install	Download Trojan Killer from the official website (link above) Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions Launch the program once installation is complete
2. Perform a Full System Scan	In the main interface, click on “Full Scan” to begin a comprehensive system check The scan will check your system for Craxsrat ransomware and other potential threats Wait for the scan to complete – this may take some time depending on your system
3. Review and Remove Threats	After the scan completes, review the list of detected threats Ensure all items related to Craxsrat are selected for removal Click “Remove Selected” to clean your system
4. Restart Your System	After the cleanup process finishes, restart your computer Some malware components can only be fully removed after a system restart

3. File Recovery Options

Unfortunately, files encrypted by Craxsrat cannot be decrypted without the unique decryption key held by the attackers. However, you can try several approaches to recover your files:

1. Use Backups: If you have backups on an external drive, cloud storage, or other backup system, restore your files from these sources
2. Check for Shadow Copies: Windows may have created shadow copies of your files before encryption. You can try to restore previous versions by right-clicking on a file or folder, selecting “Properties,” then the “Previous Versions” tab
3. Data Recovery Software: In some cases, specialized data recovery software may recover deleted original versions of files from your hard drive
4. Check for Free Decryptors: Monitor security blogs and forums for potential decryption tools that might be developed for Craxsrat in the future

How to Protect Your Computer from Ransomware

Preventing ransomware infections is much easier and more effective than trying to recover after an attack. Here are key preventive measures:

Protection Method	Description
Regular Backups	Create regular backups of important files using the 3-2-1 rule: 3 copies, on 2 different media types, with 1 copy stored offsite (e.g., cloud storage). Keep backup external drives disconnected when not in use.
Update Software	Regularly update your operating system, antivirus, browsers, and all applications. Many ransomware attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that have already been patched.
Use Reliable Security Software	Install reputable antivirus/anti-malware software with real-time protection features. Consider using Trojan Killer for comprehensive protection.
Be Cautious with Email	Never open attachments or click on links in emails from unknown senders. Be suspicious of unexpected emails, even if they appear to come from trusted sources.
Avoid Pirated Software	Never download pirated software, “cracks,” or key generators. These are often used to distribute malware, including ransomware.
Use Strong Passwords	Create unique, complex passwords for all accounts and consider using a password manager to store them securely.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication	Where possible, enable MFA to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
Disable Macros	Disable macros in Microsoft Office applications or configure them to run only from trusted sources.
User Education	Learn to recognize phishing attempts, suspicious websites, and other social engineering tactics.

Creating Data Backups

One of the most effective ways to protect against ransomware is maintaining regular backups of your important files. Here are several options for backing up your data:

• External Hard Drives: Copy your data to an external drive and keep it disconnected when not in use
• Cloud Storage: Services such as Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox offer encrypted storage options
• Network Attached Storage (NAS): For home or small business with proper security configuration
• Specialized Backup Solutions: Dedicated backup software with ransomware protection features

Microsoft OneDrive offers an excellent option for Windows users to protect their files. OneDrive includes built-in ransomware detection and file recovery features:

1. Set up automatic backup for your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders
2. Take advantage of version history to restore files to pre-encryption state
3. Use OneDrive’s ransomware detection and recovery features

Similar Ransomware Threats

Craxsrat is just one of many active ransomware threats. Similar threats include:

• Lilith RAT — A sophisticated remote access trojan with file encryption capabilities
• Sarcoma Ransomware — Dangerous file-encrypting malware with similar extortion techniques
• LockBit 4.0 Ransomware — Advanced ransomware family known for targeting business and corporate systems

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Craxsrat ransomware presents a serious security threat to personal and business data. Its ability to make files inaccessible through encryption can lead to permanent data loss and financial damage. The most effective approach to ransomware threats is prevention through comprehensive security practices, regular system updates, and most importantly, maintaining regular backups of your important data.

If you’re already infected, focus on removing the malware and exploring recovery options rather than paying the ransom. For persistent or complex infections, specialized security tools like Trojan Killer can provide effective solutions, not only removing the ransomware but strengthening your system against future attacks.

Remember that the ransomware threat landscape is constantly evolving, with new variants appearing regularly. Staying informed about current threats and maintaining strong security practices is your best defense against these sophisticated attacks.