How to remove Kraken ransomware virus

Kraken ransomware returns with its second version after one year break

Kraken ransomware is file-encrypting malware that was detected in 2017. Recently, the second its version was detected which was dubbed Kraken 2.0 ransomware. The virus encrypts files using RSA^[1] and AES^[2] ciphers, and then appends the .kraken or .SN-%ID%-info@kraken.cc_worldcza@email.cz file extensions to each damaged file. As a result, victims cannot access their personal files, such as photos, video or audio files as well as other documents that are extremely important to them. To recover the access, they are required to pay a ransom.

The attack of this ransomware might not seem so cruel if you have backups of your encrypted files because you can easily use them to restore your affected data. If you have no copies of the most important files that are encrypted, the situation becomes more complicated. Victims of this ransomware cannot access, open or use their data. However, they can find a new .html file on their desktop that includes information about data recovery.

The “_HELP_YOUR_FILES.html” file contains instructions on how to purchase Bitcoins^[3] and transfer them to the individual Bitcoin wallet. It also requires contacting cyber criminals and waiting for the decryption program to be sent. However, in case of the attack, we do not recommend following crooks’ orders because you might be trapped. We highly recommend you to take care of Kraken ransomware removal as soon as it steps inside the computer.

This ransom note is unusual because it has dynamic fields that might be updated and modified. The crooks worked hard and provided lots of links where victims can buy Bitcoins and how the transaction has to be made. Virus demands 2 Bitcoins for data decryption; however, if victims do not rush to pay, the sum doubles. This document also includes victim’s ID number, and they have to send it after paying the ransom to the cyber criminals to one of these addresses:

• krakenk811@gmail.com;
• kraken0@india.com;
• kraken@innocent.com.

Sooner or later victims should receive an email from the hackers which includes Kraken decryptor. Victims have to push “Decrypt” button and wait for the further instructions. However, clicking this button and using decryptor is extremely dangerous. You might get infected with another ransomware and asked to pay even more money. Therefore, remove Kraken ransomware from the computer with the help of FortectIntego and our prepared instructions.

Methods used for spreading this ransomware

The developers of ransomware viruses have been applying almost the same and well-known malware distribution strategy which is closely related to malicious spam emails^[4], exploit kits, malware-laden ads, etc. If you are interested in technology or viruses, probably you have heard that the most popular ransomware distribution method is malicious email campaigns.

Cybercriminals send hundreds of thousands different email that includes an attached document. If a person opens the attachment, Kraken or other ransomware infiltrates the system. Nowadays it’s extremely important to pay attention to online safety^[5] because the number of malware attacks is growing and hackers find new ways to spread the virus.To minimize the risk of the ransomware attack, it’s not only important to stay away from suspicious emails and their attachments but also avoid visiting shady websites, clicking or installing software/updates from questionable online ads, and using file-sharing sites.

The removal procedure of Kraken 

After ransomware attack, you should act smart and fast. You should not delay Kraken ransomware removal or consider paying the ransom. As we already told you, if you have already found yourself in this unpleasant situation, you should try to get yourself out of it. The only way to do is to remove malware from the computer.

While it resides on your PC, the system stays vulnerable and fragile, so other computer infections might take advantage of the situations and cause even more problems for you. To remove Kraken from the computer, you have to install and update reputable anti-malware program (e.g., FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes) and run a full system scan. However, ransomware might not let you do it simply, so you should follow our prepared instructions below.