How to remove KRider ransomware virus

Don’t mess around with KRider because it will mess up your computer!

We would not be surprised if you haven’t heard about KRider virus yet since it is a brand new ransomware ^[1] still in the early stages of development. Nevertheless, experts already know a bunch of things about this nasty malware. We feel it is important to share this knowledge in order to expose the parasite and make sure as many users as possible learn about its existence and potential dangers. Unfortunately, there is virtually no way of stopping the hackers from continuing their work on this virus. So, we can only hope that some indestructible virus version will not put up for an extensive global distribution. If it does, though, you should be prepared to remove KRider from the infected device. For some useful virus elimination tips go to the end of the article or simply use anti-malware utilities such as FortectIntego to carry out the removal automatically.

So what exactly do we know about KRider? First of all, it is undoubtedly a crypto-ransomware ^[2] type of virus which means that it locks computer files using a complex encryption algorithm, rendering the containing data unreadable. In particular, the virus uses AES encryption ^[3]. So, after it is implemented, the files not only become inaccessible but cannot be decrypted without a special key. To make matters worse, this key is stored on a remote server controlled by hackers and can only be obtained by paying a ransom. Interestingly enough, though, this virus does not create a ransom note or any instructions on data recovery. We can only presume the extortionists will add these in some later stages. Nonetheless, even without the ransom note, the virus successfully proclaims its individuality. It replaces file names with random ones and appends unique .kr3 extensions to each of the encrypted files. We should point out that currently, the whole encryption process is run by a malicious executable Ransomware.exe ^[4], but it is likely that the name of this file will change as the ransomware gets updated. As for now, while the virus is undecryptable and there is no way to contact the criminals for a decryption key, you are left with one option — KRider removal. To make the already stressful experience less aggravating, we recommend checking our expert recommendations below the article.

Possible ransomware distribution strategies and prevention

As we have already mentioned, KRider is not an active ransomware, so it is not distributed on the same level as ransomware giants such as Cerber or Osiris are. Nevertheless, it is likely that the hackers behind KRider will go for a few test runs before focusing on the distribution of their final product. They may use download links on unreputable software sharing websites to spread the test virus to the public. Later on, some more serious strategies may be employed, including spam campaigns, exploit kits and Trojans ^[5]. Antivirus software may help prevent some of the attacks, but the best way to really protect your data is by saving backups of your important files in external drives, USBs or other storage platforms. This way, you will be able to recover your data easily after KRider attack or system malfunction.

What are the KRider removal options?

To tell you the truth, there is only one guaranteed method to remove KRider virus, and that is automatic elimination. Since the malware is still under development, it may be bugged, so trying to remove it from your computer manually may mess up the computer beyond repair. Thus, KRider removal must always be performed with a specialized, sophisticated software which is updated to the latest version. After the elimination is done, you may then proceed with data recovery and either restore files from backup or follow alternative recovery steps at the end of the page.