JosepCrypt virus is a newly discovered test version of a new threat. The security analysis reveals that it does not contain snippets from any of the famous malware families. It is possible that future versions of it are going to feature updated code that add newer functions. Read our complete JosepCrypt virus removal guide to learn more about it.
Threat Summary
| Name | JosepCrypt |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .josep extensions and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss JosepCrypt. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
JosepCrypt Virus – Distribution Ways
The JosepCrypt virus is a new malicious threat that is being distributed using a variety of methods. The associated attack campaign is very small and as such it is proposed that this is merely a test release that is being delivered. Is is expected that in future releases the JosepCrypt virus campaigns are going to be much more extensive.
A primary method for spreading samples of it is the coordination of email SPAM messages. They usually use some kind of a social engineering contents that attempts to manipulate the targets into interacting with the virus files. Usually they are either attached directly or hyperlinked in the body contents. In addition they are one of the main mechanisms for distribution of viral payloads. Two of the most popular cases are the following:
- Infected Documents — The JosepCrypt virus can be embedded in files of different types: text documents, spreadsheets or presentations. A notification prompt appears which asks the targets to enable the built-in macros (virus code).
- Software Installers — In a similar way the criminals can use the same mechanism with application installers. The criminals often choose popular applications: creativity suites, productivity, system utilities and even computer games.
Another technique used by hackers is the use of browser hijackers. They are malicious web browser plugins that are usually spread on the relevant extension repositories. The hackers typically use fake credentials, user reviews and post elaborate descriptions in order to fool as many users as possible. Once they are installed on the victim computers default settings are changed (homepage, search engine and the new tabs page) in order to redirect the users to a hacker-controlled site. Such threats are usually made compatible with the most popular web browsers: Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Safari, Microsoft Edge and Opera.
The hackers behind the JosepCrypt virus can also utilize various web scripts in order to spread it further. Examples include pop-ups, banners, redirects and in-line links. Using affiliate and advertising networks the virus can even reach legitimate sites. This method type can even include malicious and fake download portals as well as file sharing networks like BitTorrent.
JosepCrypt Virus – In-Depth Analysis
The initial code analysis shows that the discovered strains do not feature any code taken from the famous ransomware families. As such the security experts suppose that the virus has been created by their creator(s). At the moment the identity of the hacker or criminal collective behind it is unknown.
The released strains are described as test versions as they contain only a basic ransomware module. It is expected that future versions will feature additional options. In this JosepCrypt virus removal guide we will showcase how an attack may be executed in case interim versions are released.
An example attack can begin with an information gathering that can extract various sensitive information from the victim computers. The collected data can be used for campaign optimization which allows the hackers to create a more effective distribution campaign. The hijacked information consists of values taken from certain operating system configuration options and a full profile of the installed hardware components.
In addition the same engine can be used to harvest sensitive data about the victims themselves. This private information can be used to directly expose a person’s identity: their name, address, telephone number, location, interests, password and account credentials.
The collected information can be used by a stealth protection engine which can guard the virus instance from security products or services. Examples include anti-virus products, virtual machine hosts or sandbox environments. Their real-time engines can be bypassed or entirely removed depending on the exact configuration. Advanced versions of the ransomware can be programmed into deleting themselves if they are unable to bypass this step.
What follows are various system changes that primarily deal with the Windows Registry. Such steps are primarily made in order to affect the user-installed applications or the operating system itself. This can cause certain applications to stop working properly or certain services to work abnormally. In addition if the operating system is impacted overall performance can be degraded. Some actions can be attributed to a persistent threat installation of the virus. This means that it will launch itself automatically once the computer boots. Its interesting to note that it can be also disable the recovery boot menu.
Future JosepCrypt virus instances can also cause damage to the victim computers by deleting the identified Shadow Volume Copies of sensitive data. In this case effective data recovery can only be achieved by using a professional solution.
Some of the famous ransomware families feature a network connection module that can perform a real-time link with a hacker-controlled server. It is used to spy on the victim users, as well as overtake control of their machines. Such methods are used to deploy additional threats as well.
JosepCrypt Virus – Encryption Process
Once all components have executed correctly the ransomware module is run. The associated JosepCrypt virus uses a strong cipher in order to affect a predefined list of target data. An example list can include the following:
- Documents
- Backups
- Archives
- Databases
- Music
- Videos
- Images
When this step is complete the affected files are renamed with the .josep extension. The captured strains show a ransom note crafted in a file called RECOVERY.txt which reads the following:
A l l y o u r f i l e s a r e e n c r y p t e d . I f y o u w a n t t o r e c o v e r t h e y , w r i t e m e t o j o s e p n i v e r i t o @ a o l . c o m Y o u h a v e a 5 d a y s Y O U R K E Y : *****
Remove JosepCrypt Virus and Restore .josep Files
If your computer system got infected with the JosepCrypt ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for JosepCrypt with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall JosepCrypt and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by JosepCrypt on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by JosepCrypt there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove JosepCrypt
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by JosepCrypt.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and JosepCrypt aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
JosepCrypt-FAQ
What is JosepCrypt Ransomware?
JosepCrypt is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does JosepCrypt Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does JosepCrypt Infect?
Via several ways.JosepCrypt Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of JosepCrypt is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .JosepCrypt files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .JosepCrypt files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .JosepCrypt files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".JosepCrypt" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .JosepCrypt files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of JosepCrypt Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate JosepCrypt ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .JosepCrypt files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can JosepCrypt Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the JosepCrypt Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this JosepCrypt how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the JosepCrypt ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
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