CryptoLocker Ransomware – How to Remove it?

Cryptolocker ransomware is a deadly digital kidnapper that targets the Windows operating system. It hijacks sensitive files and critical access controls inside the system locking the user out of the system and rendering it inaccessible. To do so, it uses an asymmetric encryption method to encrypt the important files and gateways inside Windows OS. Once it takes over a system it shows a ransom note on your screen with detailed instructions to buy and send Bitcoins to get the decryption key. Along with this, it issues a warning to delete the data if you do not pay the ransom money within 72 hours. If you comply with their demand they may set free your valuable data and if not then it all goes to waste.

Written by R K Dutt
Published on February 24, 2025

CryptoLocker Ransomware is fast, sleek, and ruthless in causing chaos and taking over windows operating systems. It doesn’t just affect personal computers but also hits businesses, hospitals, and even government systems alike. So, this write-up is about CryptoLocker Ransomware and the tips on how to prevent it. So keep reading to the finish!

How does CryptoLocker Ransomware work?

CryptoLocker Ransomware first appeared in 2013 driving chaos to different industries. It infected at least 34000 systems across different English countries and extorted $27 million from the victims before the takedown. It is linked to the Gameover ZeuS botnet that targeted Windows computers to launch cyber attacks and online malicious attacks.

CryptoLocker Ransomware employs an asymmetric encryption method to lock down files and access points in a device. This method uses two keys to encrypt and decrypt files; one is a public key and the other one is a private key. In this process, a file encrypted with the public key can only be decrypted with the corresponding private key and a file encrypted with the private key can only be decrypted with the corresponding public key.

Black hats use advanced encryption algorithms such as RSA and AES that use asymmetric encryption methods. These encryption algorithms are impossible to crack without the unique decryption key. To spread and inject CryptoLocker Ransomware into a system cybercriminals use a classic bait-and-switch strategy. The game is simple: a victim receives a phishing email with an innocent-looking attachment of notices or invoices. But when the file is opened CryptoLocker slithers into your system faster than a snake in tall grass.

What are the Signs of Cryptolocker Malware?

If your PC is infected with the Cryptolocker Malware then it will start behaving in an unusual way. Here are some signs that confirm its presence on your device:

Your computer suddenly starts dragging, responding slowly, and freezing during normal tasks.
The files change extensions like from .docx to something like .locked or .crypt.
Random requests and permissions appear on screen in the form of a pop-up or a text file.
Unusual file extensions or random strings of letters and numbers instead of your files.
A spike in network activity and traffic to unfamiliar external IP addresses or servers.
Your antivirus or security software is not acting up, not opening, or failing to update.
Pop-up ads, fake alerts, or warnings claiming are appearing on your desktop.
You are unable to open files you normally could, and you see “The file cannot be opened” or “This file is corrupted.”

How to Prevent Cryptolocker Malware?

Cryptolocker Ransomware is a sophisticated malware that uses a combination of malicious activities to enter and infect your device. It exploits system vulnerabilities and user errors to spread and install in a device. So, it is highly important to keep these best safety practices while you are browsing online or interacting with emails and other types of content on the internet. That’s why, here are some tips and tactics that if you follow will efficiently defend you against CryptoLocker malware:

Get Smart About Email Scams

Phishing emails are best friends of CryptoLocker ransomware. Black hats create legitimate-looking emails with convincing content and emergency attachments to take quick action. They look as if coming from a trusted source but in reality, they are nothing but baits. When you open them the game is over. Hence it is highly recommended to be skeptical of emails that come from unknown senders and consist of links and attachments. If you ever come across such an incident then check all the details first before clicking the link or opening the attachment.

Keep Your Software Up-to-Date

Software vulnerabilities that develop over time provide an unrestricted passage to the deadly malware and ransomware. You must keep your software and system up-to-date by downloading all the latest updates as soon as the vendor makes them available. Avoid using old versions of apps, programs, and other software in the system as cybercriminals can exploit security holes in them to infiltrate your device. As a proactive approach, you should enable auto-updates in your device to catch the first in the morning and stay one step ahead.

Use a Smart Antivirus Software

Antivirus software is your best chance against deadly malware and ransomware attacks. It gives you the first line of defense against deadly cyberattacks. You must equip your device with smart antivirus software that consists of advanced defense features like real-time protection, browser security, behavior analysis, and anti-ransomware algorithms. It will catch the threats and potential dangers as soon as they run any malicious programs in the background. The real-time protection scans your device round the clock, locks it down, and removes the threats from your PC even when you are not watching over it.

Backup Your Data

If you want to defeat ransomware attacks and do not want to pay any ransom to cyber swindlers then you have to maintain the back of all the important data in your device. You should use cloud storage, external hard drives, pen drives, and other devices to back up your data. When you back up on an external device then do not connect it to the internet. No ransomware will be able to reach and lock it up. You can use this backup to recover data if your main PC is infected and encrypted by ransomware.

Set Up Email Filters

Most often ransomware attacks start with emails. So it would be highly helpful to set up email filters on your device to identify and block spam emails and nip the evil in the bud. It can block potentially harmful attachments like executables or zip files and protect you from unseen danger. Email filters can grab most of the junk and keep you safe from potential threats.

Don’t Pay the Ransom

If you ever become a victim of a ransomware attack then do not pay the ransom amount whatsoever. The reason for this denial is that you never know whether the black hats will set you free or not when you have paid them the money. They can ask you for more once you pay them the first amount and the demand can grow when they sniff the desperation in you. Also, paying them is like encouraging them to keep doing what they are doing. So, don’t pay the ransom!

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CryptoLocker Ransomware – How to Remove it?

How does CryptoLocker Ransomware work?

What are the Signs of Cryptolocker Malware?