An encrypted file has been encoded by an encryption program. Ransomware often replaces original file extensions with .encrypted after encrypting files. There are many ransomware variants that use this extension. To determine the ransomware type, check the ransom note left in affected folders.
Tips on opening .encrypted files and programs that support them are below. The .encrypted file format was developed by unknown creators. Files may need different software to open based on operating systems. Below summarizes programs supporting .encrypted files on each platform.
The .encrypted extension is used by Crypren ransomware. The files are encrypted and can’t be opened by changing the extension. Crypren ransomware encrypts user files. It then forces victims to pay the attackers bitcoin to unlock files.
The .encrypted extension can also occur in other file types. The format may not be supported by ransomware decryptors. Modification or reading .encrypted files often requires the program used to encrypt them.
.Encrypted files can transfer between devices but not all can open them properly. The below programs support the .encrypted file format.
AxCrypt
Adobe Acrobat