Kasiski Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

Security experts have uncovered the Kasiski ransomware which uses an unusual prefix renaming scheme when encrypting the local user files, continue reading our removal guide to learn more about it.

Kasiski Ransomware Description

The security community has notified us of a new virus threat known as the Kasiski ransomware. It is still under an active security analysis and at this time we cannot tell if it borrows any code from the famous malware families. We suspect that it is is an independent creation as it uses an unusual renaming scheme.

Like all other similar threats it uses a strong cipher with its encryption engine to target the most commonly used user data – documents, photos, music, videos, backup images and etc. All affected data is renamed using the [Kasiski] prefix.

The Kasiski ransomware then displays a ransomware note in Spanish. Here is machine-translated version of an excerpt:

ALL YOUR FILES WERE ENCRYPTED
TO RECOVER THEM OPEN THE DOCUMENT
‘INSTRUCTIONS.txt’ FOUND ON YOUR
DESKTOP AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS

Kasiski Ransomware Distribution

A very small number of malware samples belonging to the Kasiski ransomware have been identified. The limited amount of infections does not give the security researchers enough information to judge which are the primary methods of distribution and infections.

However we assume that the hackers who are behind the virus prefer the following methods:

• Infected Software Installers – Ransomware are often bundled with infected software installers. The most likely spot for finding such programs are pirate and iliegal download sites and BitTorrent trackers. The viruses are often found alongside counterfeit copies of popular applications and computer games.
• Dangerous Redirects – All sorts of malicious ads and browser hijackers can lead to dangerous infections. These scripts and links can lead infections not just with the Kasiski ransomware but also other threats.
• Email Spam Messages – Email spam messages that use social engineering tricks, also called phishing campaigns, are one of the most popular methods to spread malware of all types.

Kasiski Ransomware – How To Remove it and Prevent It From Coming Back

There are two ways of removal:

• With an anti-malware tool – this will also help prevention
  
• Manually – using the instructions below

Kasiski Ransomware Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Kasiski Ransomware completely with a few mouse clicks.

STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.

1) Hit WIN Key + R

2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK

Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”

STEP II: Show Hidden Files

1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
– Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option

3) Windows 8/ 10

– Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option



4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button

STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes

1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it

STEP IV: Remove Completely Kasiski Ransomware Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter

STEP V: Repair Windows Registry

1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys

Further help for Windows Registry repair

STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files

1) Use present backups
2) Restore your personal files using File History
– Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar



– Hit the “Restore” button

3) Using System Restore Point

– Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps

STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures

1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.

SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter