HexaCrypt is a new strain of ransomware that encrypts files and demands a ransom of $450 in Bitcoin for their decryption. Like other ransomware variants, it not only locks data but also claims to steal files, threatening to publicly release them if the ransom isn’t paid within 72 hours.
This crypto-malware uses a randomized file extension format and drops a ransom note titled [random_string].READ_ME.txt
, where [random_string]
matches the extension added to all encrypted files. For example, a file like 1.jpg
could be renamed to 1.jpg.5s48uq85
, and the ransom note would be 5s48uq85.READ_ME.txt
.
Text of the HexaCrypt Ransom Note
All of your important files have been encrypted and stolen and only we can decrypt your files.
If you refuse to cooperate, your decryption software will be permanently deleted, and your stolen files will be published publicly.
Send 450$ worth of btc to this bitcoin wallet:
bc1qgngtzxgt3vcgx7andfl2temn3vt4unf5lmcqkj
contact us:
hexacryptsupport@proton.me
How Can You Trust Us?
If we do not provide the decryption tool after payment, no one will ever trust us again. We rely on our reputation.
To prove we can decrypt your files, you can send us 1 encrypted file.
You have 72 hours to pay and contact us.
Threat Summary Table
Category | Details |
---|---|
Threat Name | HexaCrypt Ransomware |
Threat Type | Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files Locker |
Encrypted File Extension | Random string (e.g., .5s48uq85 ) |
Ransom Note File Name | [random_string].READ_ME.txt |
Ransom Amount | $450 in Bitcoin |
BTC Wallet | bc1qgngtzxgt3vcgx7andfl2temn3vt4unf5lmcqkj |
Contact Email | hexacryptsupport@proton.me |
Detection Names | Avast (Win64:Evo-gen [Trj]), CTX (Exe.trojan.agen), ESET-NOD32 (Python/Filecoder.ASO), Lionic (Trojan.Win32.Blocker.tsLO), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Sonbokli.A!cl) |
Symptoms | Files won’t open, renamed with random extension, ransom note appears |
Damage | Files encrypted and stolen, potential for data leak, system vulnerability |
Distribution Methods | Malicious email attachments, torrents, cracked software, infected USBs |
Danger Level | High |
Recommended Removal Tool | SpyHunter Antivirus |
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
- 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:
- 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.
- Press Windows + R, type
- 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:
- Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
- Release the key once you see the Apple logo.
- Your Mac will start in Safe Mode.
Step 3: Locate and Terminate Malicious Processes
For Windows Users:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Look for suspicious processes (e.g., unknown names, high CPU usage, or random letters).
- Right-click on the process and select End Task.
For Mac Users:
- Open Activity Monitor (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor).
- Look for unusual processes.
- Select the process and click Force Quit.
Step 4: Delete Malicious Files
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
%temp%
, and hit Enter. - Delete all files in the Temp folder.
- Navigate to:
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local
C:\Windows\System32
- Look for suspicious files related to the ransomware (random file names, recently modified) and delete them.
For Mac Users:
- Open Finder and go to Go > Go to Folder.
- Type
~/Library/Application Support
and delete suspicious folders. - 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.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit
, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software
- Look for unfamiliar folders with random characters or ransomware-related names.
- Right-click and select Delete.
For Mac Users:
- Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
- Click on Login Items and remove any suspicious startup items.
- Navigate to
~/Library/Preferences
and remove malicious.plist
files.
Step 6: Restore System Using System Restore (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac)
For Windows Users:
- Press Windows + R, type
rstrui
, and hit Enter. - Click Next, choose a restore point before the infection, and follow the prompts to restore your system.
For Mac Users:
- Restart your Mac and hold Command + R to enter macOS Utilities.
- Select Restore from Time Machine Backup.
- 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.
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
- Open the downloaded file (
SpyHunter-Installer.exe
). - Follow the on-screen prompts to install the program.
- Once installed, launch SpyHunter.
Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan
- Click on Start Scan Now.
- SpyHunter will scan for ransomware and other malware.
- Wait for the scan to complete.
Step 4: Remove Detected Threats
- After the scan, SpyHunter will list all detected threats.
- 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.
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.
HexaCrypt doesn’t just rely on encryption—it leverages fear by threatening public exposure of your private files. It’s important to avoid paying the ransom, as there’s no guarantee the attackers will provide a valid decryption tool.
If you’re infected, it’s crucial to remove the malware before attempting recovery or reinfection may occur. We recommend scanning your device with SpyHunter Antivirus, a trusted malware removal tool designed to detect and remove ransomware like HexaCrypt.