How to remove KiRa ransomware

KiRa ransomware is a dangerous virus that encrypts users' personal files

KiRa, also known as GreatKiRa, is a relatively new type of data-locking malware. It garnered the interest of 55 security vendors and two sandboxes, all of which have classified it as a malicious threat.^[1] Once inside a system, this virus starts an encryption process that adds four random characters to the names of personal files like photos, videos, and documents.

If a file was previously named “picture.jpg,” after the encryption process was completed, the name would be changed to “picture.jpg.u5fd.” Along with renaming the files, the appearance of the encrypted files is changed. Users are no longer presented with familiar thumbnails but with blank white pages. Following the completion of the encryption procedure, a ransom note is typically generated and displayed on the victim's device, further complicating the situation.

The ransom note

KiRa ransomware drops a ransom note read it!!.txt, which reads as follows:

I'm from an international wanted u can call me : KiRa

I am an undercover hacker

My name is: GreatKiRa

I will use your computer as collateral for collection

i just want：2000$ LoL

Payment address: b_@mail2tor.com

contact details : b_@mail2tor.com

IG: @DD00

Hehh .. i think u are in big trouble $:
sO Contact me after payment and I will unlock it for you
If you do not pay, your computer and files will be automatically destroyed,

The ransom note appears to be from a person going by the name “KiRa” or “GreatKiRa,” who claims to be an undercover hacker. The note requests $2000 in payment and includes a payment address as well as contact information via email (b_@mail2tor.com) and Instagram (@DD00). The note's tone is taunting and threatening, implying that failure to comply will result in the destruction of the victim's computer and files.

There are a number of compelling reasons why victims should refuse to pay the ransom demanded by hackers. To begin with, paying the ransom does not ensure that the hackers will keep their end of the bargain and provide the necessary decryption key.^[2] Victims may lose their money if they do not gain access to their encrypted files or compromised systems.

Second, complying with ransom demands encourages criminal activity and encourages hackers to continue targeting individuals and organizations. Paying the ransom indirectly contributes to the growth and sustainability of cybercriminal networks, thereby exacerbating the problem in the long run.

Ransomware distribution methods

The most common ransomware distribution methods are:

• Email attachments: Malicious attachments are sent through email, often disguised as legitimate files like ZIP, PDF, Word documents, or Excel spreadsheets. Clicking on these attachments deploys the malware, so it's best to avoid opening random email attachments. If in doubt, verify with the sender through a different platform.
• Malvertising and malicious URLs: Cybercriminals use social media platforms to insert malicious links in messages or ads. These links can lead to exploit kits and trick users into clicking by creating a sense of urgency or offering tempting downloads. Clicking on such links initiates the ransomware download.
• Torrent sites: Ransomware can easily infiltrate systems through pirated software^[3] on peer-to-peer file-sharing platforms. Avoid using such platforms, as they are often laden with malicious programs disguised as free software.
• Drive-by downloads: In this method, ransomware is automatically downloaded without any user action. Simply visiting an infected website can expose your device to vulnerabilities, leading to ransomware execution in the background.

To protect against these distribution methods, it is critical to keep your system and software up to date. Furthermore, professional security tools such as SpyHunterCombo Cleaner and MalwarebytesMalwarebytes can act as effective barriers, alerting you when malware attempts to breach your system. However, it's important to note that some malicious files can cleverly masquerade as legitimate system files, making complete immunity impossible to achieve.

Eliminate malicious files

The first and most important step is to disconnect the affected machine from the local network. Simply disconnecting the ethernet cable or disabling Wi-Fi should suffice for home users. However, if this occurs in the workplace, specific instructions are provided at the end of this post to effectively address the situation.

Trying to recover data before removing the malware can result in permanent data loss. Furthermore, if the malware is not completely removed, it may re-encrypt files. It will persist until the malicious files that caused the infection are removed. If you lack excellent IT skills, you should avoid attempting to remove the malware on your own. Seeking professional help is the most secure option.

Use anti-malware tools like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes to scan your system. This security software should find all the related files and entries and remove them automatically for you. In some cases, malware can prevent you from using antivirus software, so you need to access Safe Mode and perform a full system scan from there:

Windows 7 / Vista / XP

1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing the F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.

Windows 10 / Windows 8

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Settings.
   
2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
4. Now scroll down to find the Advanced Startup section.
5. Click Restart now.
6. Select Troubleshoot.
7. Go to Advanced options.
8. Select Startup Settings.
9. Click Restart.
10. Press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.

Fix system errors

After a malware infection, users can expect performance, stability, and usability issues to arise, often necessitating a complete Windows reinstall. Such viruses have the capability to alter the Windows registry database, disrupt crucial bootup processes, and cause damage or deletion of DLL files, among other problems. Once malware damages a system file, traditional antivirus software may become incapable of repairing it.

To address these challenges, FortectIntego was developed. This powerful software is designed to repair much of the damage caused by KiRa ransomware. Issues like Blue Screen errors, freezes, registry errors, and damaged DLLs can render a computer entirely unusable. However, with the assistance of this maintenance tool, users can potentially avoid the need for a full Windows reinstallation.

File recovery options

While some individuals may believe that anti-malware tools can restore their files, it's important to understand that these tools are not designed for file recovery. Security software's primary function is to detect and eliminate suspicious processes within the system. The truth is, file restoration can only occur with a decryption key or specialized software possessed exclusively by the cybercriminals.

If you haven't previously backed up your data, there's a possibility that you may never recover the files. While data recovery software can be attempted, it's essential to note that third-party programs may not always be able to decrypt the files successfully. Nevertheless, we recommend giving this method a try. Before proceeding, ensure you copy the corrupted files to a USB flash drive or another storage device. It's crucial to emphasize that you should only attempt this recovery method after ensuring the complete removal of the KiRa ransomware from your system.

Before you begin, several pointers are essential while dealing with this situation:

• Since the encrypted data on your computer might permanently be damaged by security or data recovery software, you should first make backups of it – use a USB flash drive or another storage.
• Only attempt to recover your files using this method after you perform a scan with anti-malware software.

Install data recovery software

1. Download Data Recovery Pro.
2. Double-click the installer to launch it.
3. Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
4. As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
5. Select Everything or pick individual folders where you want the files to be recovered from.
6. Press Next.
7. At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
8. Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
9. You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
10. Press Recover to retrieve your files.