GovCrypt Ransomware

GovCrypt is a ransomware variant built on the Chaos ransomware framework. It encrypts files on compromised systems and appends the .govcrypt extension to each encrypted file. After encryption, it drops a ransom note titled read_it.txtand replaces the victim’s desktop wallpaper with a ransom warning. Victims are instructed to contact the attackers via email and are offered the option to decrypt three files for free as a demonstration.

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GovCrypt Ransomware Summary

Category	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.govcrypt
Ransom Note File Name	read_it.txt
Associated Email Addresses	govmail@usa.com, gouv@usa.com
Detection Names	Win32:MalwareX-gen [Ransom], Gen:Heur.Ransom.Imps.3, A Variant Of MSIL/Filecoder.Chaos.C, HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic, Ransom:MSIL/FileCoder.YG!MTB
Symptoms of Infection	Files encrypted and renamed with .govcrypt extension; ransom note appears; desktop wallpaper altered
Damage	Inaccessible personal and system files; potential permanent data loss
Distribution Methods	Email phishing, malicious attachments, fake software updates, pirated downloads, drive-by infections
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

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How Did I Get Infected?

GovCrypt spreads using deceptive methods that are common in the malware ecosystem:

• Phishing Emails: Contain infected attachments or links that launch the ransomware.
• Fake Updates: Masquerade as legitimate update prompts.
• Pirated Software: Carries hidden payloads inside unauthorized downloads.
• Trojans: Delivered by seemingly harmless programs.
• Drive-By Downloads: Triggered by visiting compromised or malicious websites.

Once inside the system, GovCrypt runs its encryption routine, disables access to files, and demands a Bitcoin ransom.

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What Does GovCrypt Do?

Upon infection, GovCrypt:

1. Encrypts Files: Applies encryption to documents, images, videos, and more.
2. Appends Extension: Adds .govcrypt to each encrypted file.
3. Drops a Ransom Note: A text file named read_it.txt appears on the desktop and in affected folders.
4. Changes Wallpaper: Visually warns the user of the encryption.
5. Demands Payment: Requests Bitcoin in exchange for the decryption key, offering to decrypt three files as proof of capability.

Its foundation on the Chaos ransomware framework means it uses effective encryption and implements intimidation tactics to pressure victims into paying.

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Should You Be Worried?

Yes. GovCrypt can cause extensive damage by encrypting valuable files and rendering them inaccessible. The likelihood of recovering files without paying is low, and even payment doesn’t guarantee decryption. The best course of action is to remove the ransomware immediately and seek file recovery through backups or data recovery tools.

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Ransom Note Text

The content of the read_it.txt ransom note typically reads:

pgsqlCopyEditYour files have been encrypted by GovCrypt ransomware.
To restore your files, you must pay a ransom in Bitcoin.
You can decrypt 3 files for free as proof.
Contact us at govmail@usa.com or gouv@usa.com for further instructions.

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Manual Ransomware Removal Guide

Warning: Manual removal is complex and risky. If not done correctly, it can lead to data loss or incomplete removal of ransomware. Only follow this method if you are an advanced user. If unsure, proceed with Method 2 (SpyHunter Removal Guide).

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

1. Unplug your Ethernet cable or disconnect Wi-Fi immediately to prevent further communication with the ransomware’s command and control (C2) servers.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

For Windows Users:

1. For Windows 10, 11:
   • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
   • Go to the Boot tab.
   • Check Safe boot and select Network.
   • Click Apply and OK, then restart your PC.
2. For Windows 7, 8:
   • Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly before Windows loads.
   • Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
2. Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
3. Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes

For Windows Users:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
3. Right-click on the process and select End Task.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
2. Look for unusual processes.
3. Select the process and click Force Quit.

Step 4: Delete Malicious Files

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
2. Delete all files in the Temp folder.
3. Navigate to:
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
   • C:\Windows\System32
4. Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.

For Mac Users:

1. Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
2. Type ~/Library/Application Support and delete suspicious folders.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/LaunchAgents and remove unknown .plist files.

Step 5: Remove Ransomware from Registry or System Settings

For Windows Users:

Warning: Incorrect changes in the Registry Editor can damage your system. Proceed with caution.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
3. Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
4. Right-click and select Delete.

For Mac Users:

1. Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
2. Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
3. Navigate to ~/Library/Preferences and remove malicious .plist files.

Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)

For Windows Users:

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
2. Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.

For Mac Users:

1. Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
2. Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
3. Choose a backup prior to the ransomware infection and restore your system.

Step 7: Use a Decryption Tool (If Available)

• Visit No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) and check if a decryption tool is available for your ransomware variant.

Step 8: Recover Files Using Backup

• If you have backups on an external drive or cloud storage, restore your files.

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Automatic Ransomware Removal Using SpyHunter

If manual removal seems too risky or complicated, using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter is the best alternative.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

Download SpyHunter from the official link: Download SpyHunter

Or follow the official installation instructions here:
SpyHunter Download Instructions

Step 2: Install SpyHunter

1. Open the downloaded file (SpyHunter-Installer.exe).
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
3. Once installed, launch SpyHunter.

Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Click on Start Scan Now.
2. SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
3. Wait for the scan to complete.

Step 4: Remove Detected Threats

1. After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
2. Click Fix Threats to remove the ransomware.

Step 5: Use SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk (If Needed)

If you are dealing with a stubborn ransomware variant, SpyHunter’s Malware HelpDesk provides custom fixes to remove advanced threats.

Step 6: Restore Your Files

If your files are encrypted:

• Try No More Ransom (www.nomoreransom.org) for decryption tools.
• Restore from cloud storage or external backups.

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Preventing Future Ransomware Attacks

• Keep backups on an external hard drive or cloud storage.
• Use SpyHunter to detect threats before they infect your system.
• Enable Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
• Avoid suspicious emails, attachments, and links.
• Update Windows, macOS & software regularly.

Conclusion

GovCrypt is a high-risk ransomware threat that leverages strong encryption to lock your files and demand cryptocurrency in return. Victims should avoid paying the ransom, as it provides no guarantees. Instead, eliminate the ransomware using a trusted anti-malware tool like SpyHunter and explore backup solutions to recover data.