NTK Ransomware Virus (Removal Steps and Protection Updates)

The security community has notified us of a dangerous new screenlocker called the NTK ransomware which you can easily remove by following our removal guide.

NTK Ransomware Description

Cyber security experts discovered a dangerous new virus known as the NTK ransomware. This is a new strain of the Advanced ransomware malware family which has been popular with computer hackers lately.

Like other similar threats this one features a screenlocker which prohibits any interaction with the infected host until the virus has been removed. We currently have no information about the target file types, however we assume that the virus targets the most popular data – documents, photos, videos, music, backup images, configuration files and more.

In many cases these types of viruses can also cause additional damage to the operating system including the following:

• The malware may delete all Volume Shadow Copies of user files available on the compromised system. This makes data recover impossible without using professional-grade data recovery solutions.
• The virus code may modify key system settings which can disable the operating system’s recovery options.
• The NTK ransomware may also create a persistent environment which can removal difficult if a quality anti-spyware solution is not used.

When the encryption process is complete the screenlocker ransom message is shown to the victim. Depending on the strain it may be written in English or in another language. Here is a machine-translated version of the French note:

Your PC is blocked:) If you want to be able to reuse it, follow the instructions
below.

NTK Ransomware Distribution

The NTK Ransomware is distributed using a variety of different methods. The most popular ones include the following:

• Spam Messages – Computer hackers frequently use spam campaigns with social engineering tricks. The virus payload is either linked in the body of the message or attached directly. Popular strategies also include the inclusion of the ransomware in infected documents that pose as legitimate files of interest – forms, financial statements, contracts and etc.
• Malicious Redirects & Browser Hijackers – All kinds of malicious ads and browser hijackers can link or directly download various malware infected files or scripts which can include the NTK ransomware.
• Infected Software Installers – All kinds of viruses and other types of malware are often found bundled with software installers. Usually pirate versions of famous applications and games are the primary carrier. They can often be found on BitTorrent trackers and iliegal download sites.

NTK 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

<

NTK Ransomware Ransomware Removal

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