Kiratos Ransomware

What is Kiratos Ransomware?

Kiratos Ransomware is a threat that appends the .kiratos extension to the files it encrypts. It does not target system data, which means the computer should run more or less the same as always except the user might be unable to open files that have the mentioned extension. Next to locked data, victims should also notice text documents (_readme.txt) with instructions on what to do to decrypt the affected files. To be more precise, the hackers should ask to contact and pay them 490 or 980 US dollars. Needless to say, putting up with such demands could be extremely risky, and if you do not wish to do so, you should ignore ransom notes. Since the malware can restart with the operating system and possibly encrypt new data, we advise removing Kiratos Ransomware from the device. To eliminate it manually, you should complete the steps located below. For more information on it, we invite you to read the rest of this report.

Where does Kiratos Ransomware come from?

The malicious application could be distributed with email attachments, various installers, and so on. In other words, Kiratos Ransomware could come from Spam emails, unreliable P2P file-sharing networks, etc. our researchers at Anti-spyware-101.com say it could enter the system through unsecured RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) connections. Thus, to protect the device from threats alike, you should not only watch out for suspicious files but also keep your system secure. To strengthen the device’s security, we advise employing a reliable antimalware tool. Also, it is vital to keep all tools up to date, so there would be no weaknesses to exploit. Naturally, if you receive a suspicious email attachment or other questionable files, it would be best to scan them with the chosen antimalware tool.

How does Kiratos Ransomware work?

Apparently, at first the malicious application might show a pop-up saying the system is updating itself. In reality, Kiratos Ransomware should start encrypting targeted files (e.g., photographs, various documents, and so on.) with a robust encryption algorithm. Once affected the files should become unusable unless they get decrypted. The problem is the only way to unlock them is to get decryption tools, and hackers behind the malicious application expect to receive a payment in exchange for them. What is even worse is there is not knowing whether the cybercriminals will provide the needed tools. There is a possibility they may not bother to do so once the money appears in their account. Plus, hackers could change their mind and start asking for even more money. We have not tried contacting or paying Kiratos Ransomware’s creators ourselves, so we cannot be sure. Nevertheless, if you do not want to risk losing your savings in vain, we advise you not to deal with the hackers either.

How to eliminate Kiratos Ransomware?

As mentioned earlier, the reason we recommend removing Kiratos Ransomware is that it can restart with Windows and then encrypt more data. Not to mention, it may block the Task Manager and make the explorer.exe crash from time to time. Thus, in order to secure the system, it would be best to get rid of the malicious application. To delete it manually you could use the steps provided below this paragraph. Naturally, if you find them too difficult to follow, you should install a legitimate antimalware tool instead. Scan your computer with it and let the tool remove the malicious application for you.

Reboot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking

Windows 8/Windows 10

1. Tap Windows key+I and press the Power button.
2. Click and hold the Shift key, pick Restart.
3. Pick Troubleshoot from the Advanced Options menu.
4. Select Startup Settings, pick Restart, then click the F5 key and restart the computer.

Windows XP/Windows Vista/Windows 7

1. Go to Start and select the Shutdown options.
2. Select Restart, then click and hold the F8 key as soon as the computer begins restarting.
3. Choose from Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking in the Advanced Boot Options window.
4. Press Enter and log on.

Erase Kiratos Ransomware

1. Click Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
2. Pick Task Manager and select Processes.
3. Locate a process belonging to the threat.
4. Select it and click End Task.
5. Exit Task Manager.
6. Click Windows key+E.
7. Locate these paths:
   %TEMP%
   %USERPROFILE%\Downloads
   %USERPROFILE%\Desktop
8. Locate the malicious application’s launcher.
9. Right-click it and select Delete.
10. Navigate to these locations:
    %USERPROFILE%\Local Settings\Application Data
    %LOCALAPPDATA%
11. Find the listed files:
    script.ps1
    {random name}.exe
12. Right-click them and select Delete.
13. Check the listed folders again:
    %USERPROFILE%\Local Settings\Application Data
    %LOCALAPPDATA%
14. Look for randomly titled folders, for example, dfebd084-11fb-41be-bfb2-da7e291a4873; right-click them and choose Delete.
15. Exit File Explorer.
16. Press Windows key+R.
17. Insert Regedit and click Enter.
18. Locate the given directory: HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
19. Find a value name called SysHelper.
20. Right-click it and press Delete.
21. Exit Registry Editor.
22. Empty your Recycle Bin.
23. Restart the computer. Download Removal Tool100% FREE spyware scan and
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Stop these Kiratos Ransomware Processes: