How to remove GANDCRAB 5.0.5 ransomware and decrypt files

What is GANDCRAB 5.0.5

GANDCRAB 5.0.5 is a new version of the virus that kidnaps data on the infected computer and then demands money for them. This is the fifth version of GANDCRAB ransomware which has improved features to bypass installed anti-malware programs. Although this is updated variant, the main purpose has remained the same – data encryption as a way of blackmail. The amount or ransom is quite high = 2400$ in cryptocurrency. By the way, if you have been attacked by GANDCRAB 5.0.5 Ransomware, there is no need to contact them and especially to make any concessions. Remember, you are up against fraudsters who don’t care about your files and whose the main purpose is to make a profit. Hence, there is a high risk of being left without decryptor and money. Instead, you may try using this guide to remove GANDCRAB 5.0.5 Ransomware and decrypt files without spending any money.

This ransomware mostly penetrates the system via fraudulent emails containing malicious attachments. When the user launches the attached file, the virus starts infecting victim’s data using complicated encryption algorithms. Once all the data is enciphered, ransomware sets new desktop wallpaper (pidor.bmp):

and then drops ransom note [random characters and numbers]-DECRYPT.html in each folder with the affected files. In our case, the file is called CYYJG-DECRYPT.html:

The cybercriminals want the victim to follow hxxp://gandcrabmfe6mnef.onion/**** link via TOR browser (to preserve their anonymity). By clicking on this link, we will see the ransom amount and instructions on how to transfer them money:

Although GANDCRAB 5.0.5 is a really dangerous virus, you still have a good chance to get your files back. Before deciphering, you should first stay focused on removing GANDCRAB 5.0.5 Ransomware to avoid re-infection. Once GANDCRAB 5.0.5 Ransomware is removed, you can proceed with decryption. Both automatic and manual solution is presented here that we hope will help you remove GANDCRAB 5.0.5 Ransomware and recover your files.

How to remove GANDCRAB 5.0.5 ransomware?

To make sure that the ransomware won’t reappear, you need to delete GANDCRAB 5.0.5 ransomware completely. For this, you need to remove the files and registry entries of the ransomware. We should warn you that performing some of the steps may require above-average skills, so if you don’t feel experienced enough, you may apply to the automatic removal tool.

Download SpyHunter

Performing an antimalware scan with Norton would automatically search out and delete all elements related to GANDCRAB 5.0.5 ransomware. It is not only the easiest way to eliminate GANDCRAB 5.0.5 ransomware but also the safest and the most assuring one.

How to decrypt files

Restore files with Stellar Data Recovery

Stellar Data Recovery is an essential tool in the fight against ransomware-type viruses that can recover encrypted files.

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery and launch it
2. Select the drive you want to recover and click START SCAN
3. After scanning is finished, you are presented with a list of recoverable files found.
4. Select the required files and click the Recover

Download Stellar Data Recovery

Use decryption tool for Gandcrab Ransomware family

There is a new decryption tool available from Bitdefender Labs that can decrypt files infected by GandCrab versions 1, 4 or 5.

Download the GandCrab decryption tool

Decrypt files through our decryption service

You may try using our own service for decrypting files compromised by ransomware-type viruses. The analysis of data takes 3-5 days, after which, we will let you know whether it’s decryptable or not. Note: the service is paid, payment is charged only for decryption, the analysis is free. In order to use our service, you should fill out the form listed below.

Also, please add a log file, created on your PC:

1. Click “Start” and type: “cmd.exe” in the search box
2. Right-click “cmd.exe” and select “Run as administrator“
3. In command line, type or copy/paste following: dir C:\ /a/s > “%userprofile%\dirc.log”
4. Find and attach the created “%userprofile%\dirc.log” file to the web form

Please attach encrypted text files according to the following conditions:

1. number of files should not exceed 4;
2. file size is not more than 8 megabytes;
3. files must be from different folders;
4. files must be unique.

Restore the system

1. Initiate the search for system restore
2. Click on the result
3. Choose the date before the infection appearance
4. Follow the on-screen instructions

Roll the files back to the previous version

1. Right-click the file and choose Properties
2. Open the Previous Version tab
3. Select the latest version and click Copy
4. Click Restore

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If the above-mentioned methods didn’t help in eliminating the threat, then it’s better to rely on an automatic way of deleting GANDCRAB 5.0.5 Ransomware.

How to prevent ransomware infection

To prevent infection with ransomware-type viruses, you should have proper antimalware software. This method is convenient because it allows you to detect a virus before it penetrates, and therefore to avoid infection and the loss of all your data. It is capable of protecting not only home computers but also server systems in large organizations. Download antimalware program to secure your system and privacy.
Download SpyHunter