Snatch ransomware: what it is and how to remove it
Snatch ransomware is a file locking virus that does not have any connections with other strains. While it is not as active as more prevalent threats like Djvu or Phobos, virus developers released nine variants since Snatch ransomware debut back in December 2018, all appending different extensions after data encryption with AES cipher, including .snatch (original), .FileSlack, .jupstb, .cekisan, .icp, .jimm, .FKVGM, .EGMWV, .hceem, .cbs0z, .ohwqg and .qensvlcbymk, .clhmotjdxp.
Facts checked October 6, 2026. Removal steps tested on Windows 11 (26H2) and checked against Microsoft's and the browser makers' current documentation. Sections marked as our earlier report are the original text: they describe the threat as it was then and have not been reviewed since. The 2026 status, the removal steps and the questions are current.
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Snatch ransomware: summary
| Distribution | Malware developers use targeted spam email campaigns in order to infect victims (corporations mainly) |
|---|---|
| Name | Snatch ransomware |
| Type | Cryptovirus |
| First spotted | The malware strain first showed up in December 2018 |
| Encryption | Snatch uses sophisticated symmetric encryption method AES |
| File extension | Upon infection, malware scans the host machine for files to encrypt and appends one of the following extensions (depending on the version): .FileSlack, .jupstb, .cekisan, .icp, .jimm, .FKVGM, .hceem, .cbs0z, and .ohwqg, .qensvlcbymk |
| Removal | Scan the PC with security software to find and remove the malware and anything installed with it. Fortect scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. Remove it nowTo use the full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Fortect. The scan is free. |
Show 14 more facts
| Ransom note | Ransom note is dropped into each of the folders where encrypted files are located. Over time, the name of the note chanced, such as: Readme_Restore_Files.txt, Restore_[random]_Files.txt, RESTORE_[random]_DATA.txt, DECRYPT_[random]_FILES.txt, HOW TO RESTORE YOUR FILES.TXT |
|---|---|
| Contact | imBoristheBlade@protonmail.com, gomer@horsefucker.org, gomersimpson@keemail.me, johnsonwhate@protonmail.com, johnsonwhate@tutanota.com, A654763764@qq.com, decrypter02@cumallover.me, piterpen02@keemail.me, jimmtheworm@dicksinmyan.us, sqlbackup3@mail.fr, doctor666@mail.fr, support911@cock.li, xilttbg@tutanota.com |
| Decryptable? | Unfortunately, Snatch ransomware files are currently not decryptable. Other options to recover files include: Restoring from backup Using data recovery software Paying cybercriminals (not recommended) |
| Detection names | No Microsoft detection name is known |
| Encrypted file extension | .kjhbx |
| Decryptor | No free decryptor is known for this variant; check No More Ransom (nomoreransom.org) for updates |
| Damage | Not recorded in the old report |
| Symptoms | Files renamed with a new extension and a ransom note left in folders |
| Evidence | 5 write-ups by security sites; no sample analysed yet |
| Encrypted files | .kjhbx |
| Attacker contacts | mBoristheBlade@protonmail.com |
| Free decryptor | No free decryptor is known (checked 6 October 2026) |
| First seen | 22 June 2020 |
| Facts checked | 6 October 2026 |
- File extension:
.kjhbx - Note file:
Readme_Restore_Files.txt - Contact:
mBoristheBlade@protonmail.com
From our report of Jun 2020 · not reviewed since
More from our earlier report on Snatch ransomware
- Before attempting file recovery, users should make sure that malware is eliminated from their machines.
- For that, they should scan their computers with anti-virus software (Safe Mode)
How Snatch ransomware behaves
From our report of Jun 2020 · not reviewed since
Snatch ransomware is a crypto virus that attacks high-profile targets like SmarterASP.NET hosting provider
Snatch ransomware is a file locking virus that does not have any connections with other strains.
While it is not as active as more prevalent threats like Djvu or Phobos, virus developers released nine variants since Snatch ransomware debut back in December 2018, all appending different extensions after data encryption with AES cipher, including .snatch (original), .FileSlack, .jupstb, .cekisan, .icp, .jimm, .FKVGM, .EGMWV, .hceem, .cbs0z, .ohwqg and .qensvlcbymk, .clhmotjdxp.
After file encryption process, Snatch virus drops a ransom note Readme_Restore_Files.txt (although later versions were named differently) and asks users to visit Tor-based website or contact crooks via mBoristheBlade@protonmail.com email (again, differs based on the version).
In the note, hackers state that they want victims to pay between 1 to 5 Bitcoin for file redemption, although this sum might vary depending on negotiations. At the time of the writing, Snatch ransomware decryptor had not been developed yet, although paying cybercriminals is not an ideal solution, either.
Snatch ransomware first targeted regular users, mainly by using spam emails. Since March 2019, malware authors started naming their ransom notes based on the infected company name, meaning that they started aiming at corporations instead. The most recent incident involves SmarterASP.NET - Snatch ransomware encrypted data of hosting provider's customers and also affected the company itself. According to news reports, all the affected clients had their files appended with .kjhbx extension.
Snatch ransomware is distributed with the help of various tricks used by cybercriminals. However, user interaction is typically essential in order to finalize the malicious code execution on the computer.
For example, hackers send out thousands of fake emails to users with attachments that, once executed, infect the machine. Additionally, .snatch file virus might be delivered with the help of exploit kits, weak login credentials, fake updates, hacked or cracked installers, etc.
Once executed, the Snatch ransomware payload shuts down several Windows processes, contacts the Command and Control server, and spawns new elements which assist malware with file encryption and the full infection of the PC. For example, modified Windows registry keys ensure that .snatch ransomware is booted with every system start.
The ransom note states the following:
As evident, Snatch ransomware developers do not provide much detail about the attack, apart from the contact address and a warning about file modification. It is known, however, the hackers ask for 1-5 Bitcoin for decryption software from their victims.
Regardless of the price, bad actors should not be contacted, as the loss of money is plausible. Additionally, it will prove that the business model they operate is working and continue to try blackmailing other people. Therefore, rather remove Snatch ransomware from your machine and then proceed with file recovery procedure.
Unfortunately, the only safe method of restoring files is by using backups. Also, you could keep a copy of data and wait until security experts create an official .snatch file virus decryptor.
Finally, experts recommend scanning the machine with or similar software, and it will reverse the damage done by Snatch virus.
From our report of Jun 2020 · not reviewed since
Ransomware is distributed with the help of spam emails, as well as other methods
As we already mentioned above, ransomware authors rely on users to make a mistake while browsing the internet and simply get tricked to install malware.
Therefore, we advise to take the following actions which could prevent you from unconsciously installing malware:
- Employ reputable anti-virus software with real-time protection function;
- Patch your software and the operating system as soon as updates are available. This will help you not only keep your apps fresh but will also prevent hackers from using software vulnerabilities;
- Do not treat every email you receive casually. Be aware that those with attachments (.doc, .pdf, .html, .txt, etc.) are the most dangerous. Scan the attachment with anti-malware software before opening. Additionally, deceptive hyperlinks can lead to malware-laden sites;
- Use strong passwords and VPN when using Remote Desktop Protocol;
- Avoid high-risk websites, such as porn, gambling, torrent, file-sharing, and similar.
The Snatch ransomware note
All your files are encrypted
Do not try modify files
My email imBoristheBlade@protonmail.com
How to remove Snatch ransomware
Tools you'll need
All of these are free except where noted. Download them on a clean device if the infected PC is offline.
- A USB stick: to keep the ransom note, two or three encrypted files and screenshots off the infected PC.
- Microsoft Defender Offline: built into Windows 11 and Windows 10; scans before Windows starts, so running malware cannot hide.
- Microsoft Safety Scanner: a second, portable scanner with current signatures; each download works for 10 days.
- ID Ransomware: identifies the family from the note and one encrypted file and says whether a decryptor exists.
- No More Ransom: the free decryptors from police and security companies; check it again every few months.
- Fortect (optional): scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. The free scan is in the box above.
How to remove Snatch ransomware and get your files back
Work in this order.
Disconnecting comes first, removal comes before any restore, and nothing here asks you to contact the attackers.
Step 1: Disconnect the PC and unplug backup drives
Snatch ransomware encrypts everything it can reach, including drives and shares you connect later. Cut the network first: cable out, or Wi-Fi off from the taskbar.
Then unplug every USB stick and backup disk and pause cloud sync, so the encrypted versions do not replace your online copies. Do not reconnect any of them until the ransomware is removed from the Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC.
Windows 11: turn off Wi-Fi to take the PC offline. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 2: Save the ransom note and confirm the family
Copy
Readme_Restore_Files.txtand one or two files ending in.kjhbxto a USB stick, and leave the originals where they are.From another device, upload the note and a sample file to ID Ransomware or No More Ransom's Crypto Sheriff, which name the family from the note, the extension and the file structure.
Write down the contact address and your personal ID from the note, because a decryptor or the police may ask for them.
Warning: Never contact the attackers from the infected Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC.
Windows 11: the ransom note and encrypted files to copy for identification. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 3: Check for a free decryptor
For Snatch ransomware, no free decryptor is known (checked 6 October 2026). Search the family name in the No More Ransom decryption tools list and in the free decryptors of Emsisoft, Avast and Kaspersky, because new tools appear years after an attack.
Important: Keep the encrypted files even if nothing works today, and do not pay before every free option is ruled out: payment does not guarantee a working key.
Decryptors run on Windows 11 and Windows 10, but only after the ransomware itself is removed.
Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 4: Remove the ransomware before you restore or decrypt
Restoring or decrypting files while Snatch ransomware still runs lets it encrypt them again. Run a Full scan in Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options, then the Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan).
If the ransomware blocks Windows Security, start Safe Mode with Networking and scan from there. Some families install a password stealer as well, so let both scans finish on Windows 11 or Windows 10.
Windows 11: Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Full procedure with screenshots: Run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan
Step 5: Look for shadow copies of the files
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run
vssadmin list shadows. If it lists copies dated before the attack, right-click a folder with encrypted files in File Explorer, choose Properties > Previous Versions, and open or restore a version from before that date.ShadowExplorer, a free tool, shows the same copies when the tab is empty or hidden. Most current families delete shadow copies, so an empty list is normal, but the check takes two minutes on Windows 11 or Windows 10.
Windows 11: vssadmin list shadows shows whether shadow copies exist. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 6: Restore the files from a backup or recover deleted originals
Restore from an external backup, File History or OneDrive's version history, choosing a date before the attack. Connect the backup drive only after the scans are clean, or the ransomware encrypts it too.
If there is no backup, file recovery software can sometimes find the deleted originals, because some ransomware writes an encrypted copy and deletes the original file.
Stop writing to the drive and try recovery on Windows 11 or Windows 10 before new files overwrite the space.
Full procedure with screenshots: Recover deleted files (Recycle Bin, backups, OneDrive) On uGetFix
Instructions for each browser and system
The detailed steps for every browser and system this guide covers. Open the one you use.
Manual removal using Safe Mode
Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.
Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking
Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment.
Windows 7 / Vista / XP
- Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing 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.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Windows 10 / Windows 8
- Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
- Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
- On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
- Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
- Click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Go to Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Press Restart.
- Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes
Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Click on More details.
- Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
- Right-click and select Open file location.
- Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
- Delete the contents of the malicious folder.
Step 3. Check program Startup
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Go to Startup tab.
- Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
Step 4. Delete virus files
Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:
- Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
- Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:
Temporary Internet Files
Downloads
Recycle Bin
Temporary files - Pick Clean up system files.
- You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):
%AppData%
%LocalAppData%
%ProgramData%
%WinDir%
After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.
From our report of Jun 2020 · not reviewed since
Eliminate Snatch ransomware virus from your PC as soon as possible
If you noticed that your files are encrypted with .snatch extension, you should be aware that ransomware might be not the only threat that is established on your PC.
Quite often, malware is set to download more malicious applications (backdoor), so victims end up with such infections like data-stealers, crypto-miners, spyware, and other malicious applications.
For that reason, Snatch ransomware removal is essential for computer security and virtual safety. Because malware is a complicated piece of software that affects multiple areas of the system, we highly recommend not to try to remove Snatch ransomware manually.
Instead, rely on security software that can detect and eliminate the threat. Be aware that, because the malware is entirely new, not all AV engines like or might catch it, so scanning the computer with several programs might be a good idea. After the procedure make sure to repair any corrupted or altered parts and remove Snatch ransomware virus damage with .
[GI=method-1]To complete safe Snatch ransomware removal, enter Safe Mode with Networking as explained below:
[GI=method-2]System restore can also help you to remove .snatch file virus:
This application is designed to return corrupt, damaged or accidentally deleted files. Nevertheless, it proved to be an excellent help for ransomware victims in some cases.
You may use Windows Previous Version feature to recover individual files
If you had System Restore set up prior to the malware attack, you can use Windows Previous Version feature to get some of your files back.
Make use of ShadowExplorer
If you are lucky, ransomware might have failed to delete Shadow Volume Copies on your PC. In such a case, you will be able to return all your files with the help of ShadowExplorer.
No decryption tool is available yet
Report it and recover your files
Report it
Report the attack even if you do not expect the files back: insurers and banks ask for the report number, and police use the contacts in the note to link cases.
- United States
- FBI IC3 · FTC ReportFraud
- United Kingdom
- Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) · NCSC
- Australia
- ReportCyber (ASD)
- EU countries
- Europol: national reporting sites
Give the victim ID, the note and the date the files were encrypted. A business that holds personal data may also have to notify its data protection authority, in the EU within 72 hours.
Backups: the 3-2-1 rule
Keep three copies of files that matter, on two kinds of storage, with one copy offline or off-site.
A disk that stays plugged in is reached by malware like Snatch ransomware together with the PC; one you connect only for the backup is not.
On Windows 11, File History keeps versions on an external drive, and OneDrive keeps earlier versions of synced files. Before restoring anything, make sure the PC no longer shows files that end in .kjhbx and no longer open.
Setting it up step by step: 3-2-1 backups on Windows 11 and 10.
Stream videos without limitations, no matter where you are
There are multiple parties that could find out almost anything about you by checking your online activity.
While this is highly unlikely, advertisers and tech companies are constantly tracking you online. The first step to privacy should be a secure browser that focuses on tracker reduction to a minimum.
Even if you employ a secure browser, you will not be able to access websites that are restricted due to local government laws or other reasons. In other words, you may not be able to stream Disney+ or US-based Netflix in some countries. To bypass these restrictions, you can employ a powerful VPN, which provides dedicated servers for torrenting and streaming, not slowing you down in the process.
Data backups are important - recover your lost files
Ransomware is one of the biggest threats to personal data.
Once it is executed on a machine, it launches a sophisticated encryption algorithm that locks all your files, although it does not destroy them. The most common misconception is that anti-malware software can return files to their previous states. This is not true, however, and data remains locked after the malicious payload is deleted.
While regular data backups are the only secure method to recover your files after a ransomware attack, tools such as can also be effective and restore at least some of your lost data.
Questions about Snatch ransomware
How do I open .kjhbx files?
You cannot open them by renaming or by choosing another program. The .kjhbx ending shows that Snatch ransomware encrypted the content, and only the matching key can reverse it. Renaming a file back to .docx or .jpg changes nothing except the icon, and it can confuse a future decryptor, so leave the names as they are.
To get the content back, use a backup, an unencrypted copy elsewhere, or a decryptor listed on No More Ransom if one exists for Snatch ransomware. Store the encrypted files on an external disk until then.
Can a data-recovery company decrypt my files for a fee?
Only if a decryptor already exists or the company pays the attackers for you. Some "ransomware recovery" services advertise that they can decrypt families with no known flaw; in practice they negotiate with the attackers and add their own fee. Others use the same free tools listed on No More Ransom.
Before you hire anyone, ask in writing how they will recover the files, whether they will contact the attackers and what happens if they fail. A legitimate service answers clearly. If a free decryptor exists for your family, you can run it yourself.
How did Snatch ransomware get on my computer?
The way Snatch ransomware spreads has not been documented yet, so look at your own recent activity. On home PCs, ransomware most often comes with cracked programs, game cheats, key generators and fake updates, or with an e-mail attachment that was opened. On business networks, attackers usually log in through Remote Desktop with a stolen or guessed password.
Think back to what was downloaded or installed in the days before files that end in .kjhbx and no longer open, and check the Downloads folder and Installed apps sorted by date. Keep anything suspicious for your report, but do not run it again.
Is there a free Snatch ransomware decryptor?
We last checked on 6 October 2026, and for Snatch ransomware no free decryptor is known. We check No More Ransom, which collects free tools from police and security companies, and the decryptor pages of the major antivirus vendors. A working decryptor exists only when the encryption has a flaw or the keys were leaked or seized.
Ignore sites and videos that offer a "Snatch ransomware decryptor" for download or for a fee: these are usually scams or malware. Real decryptors are free and come from known security companies or law enforcement. Keep the encrypted files in case a tool appears later.
Should I pay the ransom?
We advise against it, and so do the FBI, Europol and national cyber agencies. Payment does not guarantee a working tool: some attackers never reply, some tools damage files, and some variants have no decryptor at all. Paying also funds further attacks and can make you a target again.
Before considering payment, try every recovery option in this guide and report the attack. Companies must involve their legal adviser and insurer, because payments to sanctioned groups can be illegal. If files are truly irreplaceable, store the encrypted copies and wait; decryptors sometimes appear later.
Did Snatch ransomware steal my files or passwords?
We do not know yet. Nothing published so far shows data theft by Snatch ransomware, but the only confirmed sign is files that end in .kjhbx and no longer open, which says nothing about what happened before. Many current ransomware attacks copy files or run a password stealer first, so it is wise to act as if they did.
From a clean device, change the passwords that were saved in the browsers on this PC, starting with e-mail and banking, sign out of all sessions and turn on two-step verification. Watch bank statements and account activity for the next few weeks.
Is Snatch ransomware the same as other ransomware with a similar name?
Not necessarily. Ransomware names come from the file extension, the note or a word in the code, so unrelated families often end up with similar names, and one family can appear under several names. The difference matters: a decryptor or advice for one family does not fit another and can damage files.
Compare the ending added to your files and the exact name of the note with the summary table at the top of this guide, then upload the note and one encrypted file to ID Ransomware from a clean device. If the result names another family, follow the guide for that family instead.
Can I just remove .kjhbx from the file names?
You can try it on a copy, but for real ransomware it will not help. The .kjhbx extension is only a label; the file content has been scrambled with a key the attackers hold.
If a renamed copy opens normally, the malware only renamed files, which happens with some fake ransomware, and you can rename the rest back. If it does not open, leave the files as they are. Renaming encrypted files can confuse a decryptor later, so always work on copies.
Can I delete Readme_Restore_Files.txt?
Yes, the note itself is harmless text and deleting it does not affect your files. Keep at least one copy first, outside the infected PC. Readme_Restore_Files.txt contains your personal ID and the attackers' contact details, which identification services use to tell which family encrypted your files, and which a decryptor may need later.
Police reports also ask for it. Once you have saved a copy, you can remove the notes from every folder after the ransomware program has been removed and your files are restored or backed up.
Will Fortect remove Snatch ransomware?
Fortect scans Windows for malware and unwanted programs and repairs the system files and settings they change, and its free scan shows what it finds on your PC before you decide anything.
For Snatch ransomware, follow the plan above as well: the browser steps take back permissions and settings that no scanner treats as a threat, and uninstalling the program that brought it removes the source.
Run Microsoft Defender's full scan and, if anything was found, its offline scan as a second opinion. If the symptoms are gone after the plan and both scans are clean, there is nothing more to do.
Sources
- ZDNet: Major ASP.NET hosting provider infected by ransomware (read October 6, 2026)
- Paloalto: What is an exploit kit? (read October 6, 2026)
- Trend Micro: Command and Control [C&C] Server (read October 6, 2026)
- DieViren: DieViren (read October 6, 2026)
- CISA: StopRansomware (read October 6, 2026)