What Is the CryptoLocker Virus?

Dusan Vasic

Updated: June 19, 2023

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In recent years, cybersecurity has become a hot topic of conversation. With the increase in frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the potential threats to your computer and how to protect yourself against them. One such threat is the CryptoLocker.

If you’ve never heard of the CryptoLocker virus, consider yourself lucky. This particularly nasty malware is known to encrypt users’ files and demand a ransom for the decryption key. In this blog post, we’ll discuss CryptoLocker, how it works, and how to remove it if you’re unfortunate enough to infect your device.

Origin of the CryptoLocker Ransomware

The CryptoLocker is a type of ransomware used to extort money from victims by encrypting their files and demanding a ransom for the decryption code. Files are encrypted using an algorithm that only the attacker can access. It is difficult to break, making it nearly impossible for victims to decrypt all the files without paying the ransom.

Once your files have been encrypted, you will receive a message from the attacker demanding a ransom (typically in Bitcoin) in exchange for the decryption key. The ransom amount varies depending on the attacker, but it generally is around $100. 

CryptoLocker malware first appeared at the end of 2013 and started gaining popularity during the first half of 2014. The malicious parties used a Trojan virus to target and infect computers running on Windows OS. Email attachments were another attack vector used by CryptoLocker, and were distributed by the Gameover ZeuS botnet.

Phishing Emails

Phishing is a type of cyber attack that relies on social engineering to trick users into infecting their computers with malware. Despite being one of the oldest and most well-known types of cyber attacks, it remains a severe threat and the primary method of distributing CryptoLocker.

These attacks are constantly evolving. For example, attackers often impersonate a trusted brand or organization to increase their chances of fooling victims.

They may also use sophisticated methods to infect victims’ computers, such as creating fake websites that look identical to the real thing. As long as users remain vulnerable to these scams, there will be a method to distribute this kind of ransomware and malicious executable files.

How Does It Work?

Nowadays, you can typically get the CryptoLocker virus through malicious attachments in your email or by following unsolicited web links. Once it has infected a computer, the virus will scan the hard drive for certain documents (such as DOC, XLS, PDF, etc.).

Once the scan is complete, it encrypts files using a robust encryption algorithm. It uses RSA public-key cryptography and stores private keys on servers operated by malware.

Once the files have been encrypted, the victim will receive a ransom message for the private key that can decrypt files on your PC. CryptoLocker will inform you that you may lose encrypted files permanently if you don’t pay until the deadline passes.

Removing CryptoLocker Virus

Unfortunately, there is no fail-safe way to remove CryptoLocker’s encryption from an infected computer. There are some steps, however, that you can take to remove the virus and at least try to decrypt your files on your own.

Start by running a trusted malware removal program like Malwarebytes or Astra. Some tried-and-true anti-malware programs may eliminate the malware, but they won’t get your files back.

How To Decrypt Files Encrypted by CryptoLocker Virus

You can use a tool such as Emsisoft Decryptor, a suite of free ransomware decryption tools that can restore your files for free.

Since CryptoLocker was first found in 2013, you’ll likely be able to find a way to get rid of the particular strain you’re dealing with. However, it’s possible that if you were infected by one of many clones of the virus with encryption that hasn’t been cracked yet, you wouldn’t be able to restore the affected files.

Remember that you shouldn’t delete files if you can’t restore files due to an infection caused by a ransomware virus, such as CryptoLocker. Most cybersecurity researchers make their results public, and users can recover encrypted data as new decryption keys are discovered.

Finally, paying the ransom is a good idea if all else fails. However, we do not recommend this as there is no guarantee that you will receive the decryption code even if you pay.

How Can I Protect Myself Against It?

There are several things you can do to prevent CryptoLocker and other types of malware from ruining your day:

• Keep your operating system and antivirus software up-to-date. Cybersecurity threats constantly evolve, so ensuring your computer runs the latest OS version and has an up-to-date antivirus program installed is vital.
• Be careful what you click on. Many people become infected with malware by clicking suspicious links and ending up on malicious websites or opening attachments in emails or websites. If you don’t know who sent you an email or if something looks suspicious, don’t click on it, especially if it’s an executable file!
• Back up your data regularly. If you have important files on your computer, back them up regularly if they become corrupted or encrypted by malware. You can back up your data locally (on an external hard drive or USB drive) or online (in the cloud).

Using reputable cloud backup services is one of the most dependable ways to protect your files from ransomware like CryptoLocker. For a small monthly fee, you can know that your most important files are safe.

Final Thoughts

The CryptoLocker is a nasty piece of malware that can cause severe damage to your computer and threaten both individuals and businesses. Attackers can cause significant disruption and financial loss if you’re not prepared.

Suppose your device was infected. In that case, you should run a reputable anti-malware program and try to use a file decryptor tool as soon as possible.That’s why it’s important to know what the CryptoLocker is and how to remove it from your system if needed. Protect yourself against such malicious threats by keeping your software up-to-date and being cautious about what links and attachments you click on.