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  • Active
  • Severity: High
  • Ransomware
  • Windows
  • Verified · Oct 2016

How to remove KillerLocker ransomware virus

A step-by-step removal guide for affected devices. Follow the verified procedure below — most readers complete it in under 10 minutes.

Julie Splinters · Anti-malware specialist

KillerLocker ransomware is out for the hunt

Portuguese users might have heard of recent malware – KillerLocker virus – threatening to encrypt their files. It operates as the ransomware which uses the usual encryption method, particularly AES-256 algorithm. Thus, despite that the title of the ransomware is too cliché, you need to focus on KillerLocker removal. It can be performed quite easily with the help of the anti-spyware application. The virus is suspected to be related with recently emerged Alma Locker, CTB-Locker or Wildfire malware. Some virus researchers speculate that these variations might be just the offspring of previously rampaged CrytpoLocker virus. The latter managed to wheedle out a stunning amount of money. Thus, it would be better to remove KillerLocker right away.

Virus researchers have only recently detected this file-encrypting malware. Likewise, little information is known about its possible area of distribution and the range of the attack. However, taking into account the success of previous ransomware, it is unwise to disregard KillerLocker malware. Unfortunately, the cyber criminals have mastered the distribution techniques. Despite how much IT experts encourage ordinary users to pay caution, they still become the victims of similar ransomware.

The ransom note of KillerLocker ransomware

After it takes over the computer, it requires some time to finish the encryption process. For it to go successful, the ransomware employs asymmetric encoding strategy. It means that it uses public key comprised of a numeric code to lock the data. Unfortunately, in order to decrypt the files without any losses you need to obtain a private key. To make things worse, the hackers set the code consisting of 32-code. Additionally, you might spot that all your files bear .rip extension. As usual for the majority of file-encrypting viruses, the ransom note sets a 48-hour time limit for you to transfer the money. Otherwise, the files will be permanently deleted. In case you backed your files regularly or kept them in several portable data storage the devices, you might have a chance to recover the files. Needless to say that it is futile to hope for the data retrieval even if you remit the payment.

The transmission tendencies of KillerLocker

Relatively a high number of users get infected after reviewing infected links sent via emails or opening the attachment of a spam message which is supposedly sent from an official company. Beware of the dangers which might be hidden in false customs declaration forms or financial reports. Users, unaware that the menace disguised in .doc or .scr file, open the files only to find out that they executed the primary file. In order to diminish the number of received spam messages, you do not only need cautiousness and awareness but a powerful security application, such as FortectIntego. It also assists in removing KillerLocker malware. It is still not known, whether the virus does not use the services of exploit kits which are not easily detectable. Therefore, proper security is of crucial significance.

Remove the ransomware properly 

Keeping in mind the notorious case of ransomware, we do not advise you to waste time on eliminating the threat manually. It would be better to entrust KillerLocker removal to a security application. You can choose from a couple of them: FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. These tools will ensure that the ransomware is completely eradicated. Do not forget to update the software so that it would be able to remove KillerLocker virus completely with all its related files. In addition, you might need to use access recovery instructions as the virus might meddle with your computer, such as shutting down the anti-virus tool or canceling the download function.

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4 comments

  1. KimkiDuk

    I suppose its not so horrid as Cerber. That bastard keeps getting stronger...

  2. della154465

    It asked me for 3 BTC!

  3. MutaChi

    Hackers are getting backup, who is going to help the "good guys"?

  4. rosaRogue

    Again spam email?

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