How to remove Kerkoporta ransomware virus

Kerkoporta — Greek ransomware used to encrypt victims' data

Kerkoporta virus is a dangerous ransomware designed to encrypt^[1] valuable data on the infected computer. Later on, it demands a specific amount of ransom for a decryption key needed to retrieve the files. To block the access to the data and encode the information, this ransomware drops a WindowsUpdates.exe file and appends an .encryptedsadly extension to the damaged files. The ransom note insists on purchasing a $100 worth of Amazon gift card and submitting the code to the criminals.

Recent reports from LosVirus.es^[2] experts state that the latest version of Kerkoporta ransomware (also known as EncryptedSadly) is still not capable of proper encryption. However, its screen lock function operates flawlessly, and victims are still not able to use their computers. The malware is programmed to modify Windows Registry settings^[3] and lock the screen even if you restart your computer. Besides, Kerkoporta removal might require specific IT knowledge. Thus, you should check the elimination guide provided at the end of this article.

Moreover, do not panic or try to purchase various decryption tools on the web. They are useless and developed to swindle money from naive computer users. Nor you should trust the cybercriminals. Typically, they manipulate their power and demand to pay more after receiving a transaction authorization.

We suggest you to check whether your system automatically stores backup copies in the cloud. There is no information that the malware can remotely encrypt files. If this function is enabled, you can remove Kerkoporta ransomware immediately using FortectIntego and try to recover your data from backups.

You can protect your PC by carefully monitoring your activity on the internet

As the major of other ransomware, Kerkoporta is not an exception — criminals distribute it via fake Windows update on suspicious websites. Usually, people encounter such false offers to update their systems on vague sites as a pop-up or a malicious ad. You should never download offered upgrades from unauthorized distributors. Always use an official Windows page with a direct link.

Moreover, attackers might employ other distribution methods such as spreading it via attachments in spam e-mails. Since they try to increase the rate of infections, e-mail messages are created to look legitimate.

For example, the subject line claims that it is a document from well-known companies or even governmental institutions. Thus, many people do not hesitate and open the attachment immediately. As soon as it happens, the corrupted e-mail drops an executable file of the virus and starts data encryption.

To avoid that, you should carefully check the e-mail letters before opening them. Also, have in mind that attackers tend to hack into social networking accounts and spread infected links to everyone on the friend list. If you have encountered a suspicious message sent by your friend, do not doubt and contact him or her in person. This way you will decrease the risk of manually infiltrating a ransomware on your computer.

Quickly kill EncryptedSadly ransomware

If your system has been infected, remove Kerkoporta by employing a professional anti-malware program. You can directly download it from official distributors or verified developers. It will quickly get rid of the corrupted files and keep your computer protected in the future.

However, uninstallation of the virus doesn’t work as a decryption tool, and you won’t get back the access to your data. But as mentioned above, you can partially retrieve your files from backup copies or try alternative recovery methods.

Besides, if you opt to eliminate the malware manually, IT security experts have prepared a Kerkoporta removal guide below. We strongly recommend carefully following the steps since even one skipped action can lead to severe computer damage.