AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST Ransomware (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

Security experts have discovered a new computer virus threat known as the AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST ransomware which encrypts target user files of the victims. To learn more about the threat and remove existing infections read our removal guide.

AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST Ransomware Description

The AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST ransomware is a new malware threat that according to the initial security analysis is an offspring of the DXDD virus. Upon infection it encrypts target user files using the AES-256 (ECB mode) and the RSA-2048 ciphers. The compromised files are renamed using the .pre-alpha extension.

The crafted ransomware note reads the following message:

Dear customer, bad news!!!
Your server was hacked, and your files were encrypted.
[AES-ECB-256 bit + RSA 2048 bit keys] Encryption was made using unique public RSA-2048 key generated for this computer. To decrypt files you need to obtain the private key.
If you need your files back and recommendations
about how to protect data and server,
write to e-mail:
[email protected]
[email protected]
If you did not receive answer by e-mail,
write to BitMsg (https://bitmsg.me) address:
BM-2cUvFEjH2g1VDRFu8jzG9Lsff9ymXCMA8z
IMPORTANT: When writing us on e-mail or BitMsg, you must specify the following ID:
*****
WARNING!
PLEASE DO NOT USE ANY THIRD-PARTY DECRYPTION TOOLS OR YOUR FILES WILL BE LOST FOREVER!
WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR FILES DAMAGED WITH WRONG TOOLS
Sorry.

AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST Ransomware Distribution

The AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST ransomware strains are primarily distributed through email spam messages, exploit kits, counterfeit software bundles and updates.

AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST Ransomware Removal

For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST 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 AES_KEY_GEN_ASSIST 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