How to remove Krab ransomware

KRAB – dangerous ransomware that belongs to an infamous GandCrab family and its 4th version 

KRAB is dangerous ransomware^[1] that typically encrypts files and marks them with .KRAB file extension. The main purpose of the virus is to extort money out of victims by making them believe that their files will be unavailable for the use until they pay the demanded ransom. These hackers are deemed to be from Romania and are responsible for GandCrab,  GandCrab v2, GandCrab v3, GandCrab v4 and, most recently, GandCrab v5 ransomware creation and distribution. This particular cyber infection is a part of its 4th variant which is also known to drop either CRAB-DECRYPT.txt or KRAB-DECRYPT.txt file in every folder with infected data. Once opened, this file turns out to be a ransom note that informs victims that their machines were infected by .krab files virus and, to retrieve the access to their data, they need to pay the ransom in Dash or Bitcoin cryptocurrency. In January 2019, the .krab file has been linked to Scarab ransomware. The virus is using !!! RETURN YOUR FILES !!!.txt ransom note to communicate with its victims.

If you were unlucky enough to get infected with KRAB and did not prepare data backups previously, you are in a tough position. Security experts claim^[2] that paying the ransom is not an option, as you might end up losing not only your personal files but also money. Hackers use unfair techniques to extort money, so they might also never contact you after the payment is transferred. 

The only goal of these hackers is to get your money. Bitcoin or DASH is the preferred cryptocurrency, as it allows anonymous transfers. In some cases, crooks demand as little as $50 for file decryption. However, .krab ransomware developers ask for $800-1200, which is a tremendous amount in comparison. 

When the data-locking process is successful, and the identification key is formed for each victim, ransomware contacts C2 server and downloads ransom note CRAB-DECRYPT.txt or KRAB-DECRYPT.txt into victim's computer which consists of the following message:

—= GANDCRAB V4 =—
Attention!
All your files, documents, photos, databases and other important files are encrypted and have the extension: .KRAB
The only method of recovering files is to purchase an unique private key. Only we can give you this key and only we can recover your files.
The server with your key is in a closed network TOR. You can get there by the following ways:
____________________________________________________________________
| 0. Download Tor browser – https://www.torproject.org/
| 1. Install Tor browser
| 2. Open Tor Browser
| 3. Open link 
| 4. Follow the instructions on this page
____________________________________________________________________

On our page you will see instruction and get the opportunity to decrypt 1 file for free.
ATTENTION! 
IN ORDER TO PREVENT DATA DAMAGE:
* DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES
* DO NOT CHANGE DATA BELOW
—BEGIN GANDCRAB KEY—
–
—END GANDCRAB KEY—
—BEGIN PC DATA—
–
—END PC DATA—

The developers of KRAB suggest to send them one file for test decryption so that you would make sure that their decryptor works. However, do not risk it as they might send you back malware instead of a promised decrypted file. The best solution for file recovery is either using a backup or extract the data from third-party software – you can find all the instructions below. Remember that you need to perform full KRAB removal before you attempt to recover your files.

To remove KRAB ransomware, use powerful security software, and do not even try to eliminate it manually, as the virus is complicated and would require a professional for such action. Instead, download FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner and perform full system scan in Safe Mode with Networking. Only after that, you can proceed with the file recovery procedure.

Ransomware distribution methods: from spam emails to exploit kits

The main distribution method for dangerous malware like ransomware is spam emails. Phishing^[3] email campaigns are often distributed by employed bots and reach thousands, if not millions of users worldwide. Those who unknowingly (or carelessly) open the attachment or click on a malicious hyperlink, start the virus infection procedure immediately.

There are a few other ways hackers use to distribute ransomware-type viruses. Exploit kits can be used to spread severe infections like ransomware. There also a are incidents when ransomware infections come to the system by breaking through unprotected RDP.

The best way to avoid this cyber infection is to pay more attention and take precautionary measures to make your system more secure. The main tip you need to remember is to keep applications up to date and pay more attention to which emails you open first without thinking.

Get rid of KRAB ransomware before it starts second encryption

To remove KRAB ransomware from the device, you need to employ tools like FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes or another anti-malware program. You need to get rid of the infection promptly in order to attempt file recovery procedure. If you start this task earlier, the virus can initiate yet another encryption of your data. The same programs can be used for both versions of the virus, either Gandcrab or Scarab.

However, KRAB ransomware removal can be hindered by the malware. In such case, we advise you to reboot your PC and enter Safe Mode with Networking. This mode loads only the necessary drivers and processes for the launch, rendering the virus non-functional. From there, you can operate anti-malware software without much trouble.

While most ransomware tries to eliminate Shadow Volume copies, .krab files virus might fail to do so. Thus, using third-party software in such a case would save all your files.