Remove KAAA Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .kaaa FILES)

remove KAAA ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .kaaa extension (free guide)

KAAA ransomware encrypts files and demands ransom payment

Contents

KAAA ransomware encrypts files and demands ransom payment
- The ransom note contains a message from the threat actors
System damage caused by ransomware
- Ransomware Summary
Ransomware distribution tactics
Remove KAAA ransomware virus and protect your system
Decrypt KAAA files
Frequently Asked Questions

KAAA ransomware is a file-encrypting malware targeting Windows OS. It is a dangerous menace to computer users, because it aims to encrypt files stored on computer systems. Upon investigation, it has been confirmed as a variant of the notorious STOP/DJVU ransomware. Once infiltrated into your system, this virus encrypts all data, appending .kaaa extension to each filename. To make matters worse, it leaves ransom notes named _readme.txt in every affected data folder.

The primary objective of KAAA ransomware is to hold your files hostage and demand payment for data decryption tools kept by cybercriminals. By employing strong encryption methods, this virus renders all files completely inaccessible. Users may notice changes in filenames after the attack. For example, 1.jpg becomes 1.jpg.kaaa, 2.docx becomes 2.docx.kaaa, and so on, affecting every single file on victimized computer. As a telltale sign of its presence, file icons may appear blank once the ransomware takes hold.

Regrettably, KAAA ransomware often arrives bundled with other highly malicious threats such as Vidar, RedLine, or AZORult. This indicates that the same malicious files used to distribute the file-encrypting malware may also unleash these information-stealing Trojans on your system.

The ransom note contains a message from the threat actors

The text file dropped by the ransomware is also known as the ransom note, and the variants of STOP/DJVU ransomware are known to consistently name it as _readme.txt. The note notifies the victim that all vital data – pictures, databases, documents, and more – have been locked away with powerful encryption and a unique key. The note instructs that the only way to restore files is to puchase KAAA file decryption tools from the ransomware operators.

The ransom demands are also stated: the criminals demand a hefty sum of $999. However, there’s a slim chance for a discounted price of $499, as the note states that victims who pay up within 72 hours of the attack are eligible for a 50% discount from the initial ransom amount. To maintain their anonymity, the criminals demand payment exclusively through cryptocurrency.

Furthermore, the note emphasizes that the encrypted files cannot be restored without the criminals’ intervention. The only provided contact information is two email addresses: datarestorehelpyou@airmail.cc and support@freshingmail.top. Additionally, the _readme.txt suggests sending a sample encrypted file to the criminals via email, promising a decrypted version in return.

Lastly, the ransom note discloses the Personal ID, which is a string used to identify the victim. The first four characters of this string indicate the version of STOP/DJVU ransomware, which, in this instance, is 0862.

System damage caused by ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that is programmed to render a computer user’s files inaccessible through encryption. This nefarious act not only deprives victims of access to personal memories but also crucial work or study-related documents, leading to significant stress and disruptions.

The likelihood of file recovery varies depending on the ransomware variant and the encryption type used – whether online or offline encryption type was applied. In cases of online encryption methods, data recovery without data backups is nearly impossible. Further insights into the intricacies of online and offline encryption modes employed by this malware can be found here.

Typically, the most effective means of restoring encrypted data involves utilizing data backups or reputable tools provided by cybersecurity firms. However, ransomware victims must exercise caution and refrain from relying on dubious tools found on rogue websites, as these may be deployed by cybercriminals to further infect computers with additional malware.

KAAA ransomware exhibits a range of destructive behaviors, including termination of various active cybersecurity processes, modifications to the Windows HOSTS file to prevent access to specific cybersecurity-related websites, control of permissions, and deletion of Volume Shadow Copies (VSS), among others. As mentioned earlier, researchers have observed that STOP/DJVU ransomware samples are frequently linked to information-stealing malware attacks.

Threats such as RedLine, AZORult, or Vidar are known to spread together with STOP/DJVU variants. These information-stealing Trojans can capture and send cybercriminals the passwords, browsing history, lists of active processes, cryptocurrency wallets, and specific application data found on the infected system. Consequently, it is imperative to prioritize the removal of these malicious entities from your computer and take proactive measures to safeguard your information.

To effectively remove KAAA ransomware virus and any accompanying malware from your system, please see instructions provided below this article. Our team recommeds using a reputable antivirus software such as INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal. Additionally, victims should read about currently available STOP/DJVU ransomware decryption solutions.

Ransomware Summary

Name	KAAA Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (find full list here)
Version	862nd
Extension	.kaaa
Cybercriminal emails	datarestorehelpyou@airmail.cc and support@freshingmail.top
Additional malware dropped	Azorult, RedLine or Vidar
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .kaaa extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online.
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$499-$999 in Bitcoin
Distribution	Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico.
Known software cracks to contain this malware	Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends.
Detection names	Trojan:Win32/RiseProStealer.SPDG!MTB (Microsoft), Trojan.GenericKD.72216572 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Strab.pef (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.72216572 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal
Removal	Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus.

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Ransomware distribution tactics

Nowadays, ransomware poses an ever-present threat to unsuspecting computer users. The STOP/DJVU ransomware family is considered the most widespread threat at the moment, and its recent iterations, including the elusive KAAA and UAZQ variants are targeting individuals seeking to circumvent the legitimate purchase of software through illicit means.

The modus operandi of cybercriminals orchestrating these attacks often involves concealing malicious payloads within seemingly innocent online downloads. These downloads, typically advertised as software cracks or keygens, serve as bait for individuals searching for methods to unlawfully activate paid software, for instance, Adobe Photoshop, Tenorshare 4ukey, Internet Download Manager and others. As users fall prey to the allure of free access to licensed games and software, they unwittingly open the door to potential malware attacks.

Deceptive websites masquerading as legitimate sources for software cracks are a known as one of the primary sources of malware infections. These platforms strategically manipulate search engine algorithms to surface prominently in search results, luring computer users with promises of free software activation. Unfortunately, once the user downloads the offered files that often come hidden in archives (.zip or .rar) and opens them, none of the promised programs get installed, but the malicious payload hits the system instead.

Email spam is another popular method for ransomware distribution, particularly by the STOP/DJVU operators. Threat actors usually impersonate representatives from reputable entities such as corporations, financial institutions, or governmental bodies to coax recipients into opening malicious attachments. The urgency conveyed in these emails adds an additional layer of pressure, coercing recipients into taking action without due consideration for the risks involved. Some examples of malicious email subjects include fake outstanding invoices, unpaid taxes, or parcel tracking details.

On top of that, computer users may expose their systems to malware through counterfeit software updates or unpatched vulnerabilities. Fake software updates are often pushed through malvertising, or, in other words, fake online pop-up or new tab ads that can be encountered during visits to not-so-trustworthy websites. Therefore, users should remember that maintaining up-to-date software and operating systems is a must, but these updates should be downloaded through confirmed and trustworthy sources only.

Remove KAAA ransomware virus and protect your system

Users affected by the described malware should aim to remove KAAA ransomware virus as soon as possible. Manual removal of such malware can be complicated, requiring knowledge of said malware components and other technical complexities.

Therefore, our team recommends opting for automated tools such as INTEGO Antivirus for KAAA ransomware removal. This ensures that the malware and related threats get deleted automatically and the system gets protected from future attacks.

Following the eradication of malware, victims should take proactive steps to mitigate the effects of the attack. This includes changing passwords used on the compromised system and implementing robust backup strategies to restore files safely.

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KAAA Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove KAAA Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube.

Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users

First of all, turn off your PC. Then press the Power button to start it again and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. This launches the Advanced Boot Options menu.
Use arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate down to Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter.

Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users

Open Windows Start menu, then press down the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then select Restart option.
This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. In this case, it is the F5 key.

Step 2. Remove files associated with the virus

Now, you can search for and remove KAAA Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.

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Method 2. Use System Restore

In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically.

Step 1. Boot Windows in Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users

Shut down your PC. Start it again by pressing the Power button and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. You will see Advanced Boot Options menu.
Using arrow keys on the keyboard, navigate down to Safe Mode with Command Prompt option and press Enter.

Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users

Launch Windows Start menu, then click the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then choose Restart option with the mouse cursor.
This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt. In this case, press F6 key.

Step 2. Start System Restore process

Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter. Or you can just type %systemroot%system32restorerstrui.exe in command prompt and hit Enter.
This launches System Restore window. Click Next and then choose a System Restore point created in the past. Choose one that was created before ransomware infection.
Click Yes to begin the system restoration process.

After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won't be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.

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Decrypt KAAA files

Fix and open large KAAA files easily:

It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.

Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the KAAA extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
Try opening the file.

STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide

STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. KAAA Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie.

Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible.

In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt KAAA files, follow the given tutorial.

Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
In UAC window, click Yes.
Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
The tool will automatically include C:// disk as a location to decrypt. The file recovery tool will prepopulate the locations to scan, including connected data storage drives or network drives. Click Add folder if you wish to add additional locations.
In Options tab, you can choose to keep encrypted file copies. We recommend leaving this option selected, especially if you do not know if the decryption tool will work.
Click Decrypt to start restoring KAAA files. You will see the progress in the Results tab. Here, you can see messages from the tool, such as whether the decryption procedure is successful, or you need to wait for an update.
You might also be informed that online key was used to encrypt your files. In such case, the decryption tool won't work for you, and the only way to recover your files is to use a data backup.

Meanings of decryptor's messages

The KAAA decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages:

Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID]

This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor's database.

No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]
Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible

This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible.

Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]
This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.

If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn't available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your KAAA extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.

Report Internet crime to legal departments

Victims of KAAA Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:

In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.
In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.
In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.
In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.
In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.
In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.
In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.

If you can't find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up "[your country name] report cyber crime". This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities.

Another recommendation is to contact your country's or region’s federal police or communications authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

✓ How can I open .KAAA files?

You can only open KAAA files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

To figure out whether you were affected by offline encryption, please go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and see if the string inside of it ends in t1. You can also try using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP/DJVU.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official KAAA decryption tools and believe what they say. If they say it is impossible to decrypt, it really is so. There is no magic tool or human capable of decrypting your files hiding somewhere. Encryption is a technique created to be nearly impossible to decrypt without a special private key (held by the criminals).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

We advise scanning with anti-virus, anti-malware, malware removal tools or software like RESTORO to eliminate virus damage on the system. If you do not trust using a single tool, try running one after another. However, we do not recommend keeping several security programs on a computer at once as they can interfere with each other's work.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake KAAA decryption tools circulating around the web. Cyber criminals are uploading them to various shady websites, also might be promoting them via suspicious Youtube videos. These programs can infect your computer even more heavily (Trojans, miners, etc.). We suggest being extremely cautious around the web. If there will be an official STOP/DJVU decryption tool available, it will be widely discussed in public media.

Norbert Webb

Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.