Remove KCVP Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .kcvp FILES)

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

KCVP ransomware virus seeks to damage your files

Contents

KCVP ransomware virus seeks to damage your files
Methods used by cybercriminals in spreading ransomware
- Emails and attachments
- Illegal software download sources
The importance of removing KCVP ransomware virus ASAP
Decrypt KCVP files
Frequently Asked Questions

KCVP ransomware virus is a new malware created by cybercriminals for the purpose of obtaining ransom fees from their victims. It is a recognized variant of STOP/DJVU virus, so once it infects a computer system, it instantly commences an attack on all files by encrypting them, a process that degrades the file contents by making them unreadable to the owner. It could affect diverse files, from documents to pictures and videos, etc. Having encrypted a file, the next thing it does is append .kcvp extension to its original name.

So, a file that was previously stored in the computer system as 1.jpg, 2.png, or 3.jpeg as the case may be, automatically becomes 1.jpg.kcvp, 2.png.kcvp and 3.jpeg.kcvp after a ransomware virus attack.

Furthermore, the virus drops _readme.txt ransom note in every data folder so that the victim could access the message from ransomware operators easily. The motive of ransomware operators is constant, i.e., infect as many computers as possible and hope that some of the victims would reach out to them for possible assistance on how to recover the encrypted files.

For the record, trying to establish contact with cybercriminals in the hope of seeking their assistance is a bad idea. Generally, every computer should have strong antivirus software installed and kept active as a first line of defense. There are other dos and don’ts as well computer users should always be aware of, and they would be discussed extensively in this article.

Contents of the ransom note (_readme.txt) explained

The ransom note file briefs the victim about the incident. They usually threaten the victim by saying that the decryption is only temporary, pending when they’re able to pay ransom fees, but if they fail to comply quickly, the loss of data now becomes permanent. Two email addresses (support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc) are also forwarded at this point in the hope that victims will write them as they seek to recover their encrypted files.

Writing to cybercriminals or responding to their threats is not a wise thing to do; rather, they should be completely ignored. The reason why cybercriminals have remained a menace over the years is that some victims have continued to pay the ransom. More reasons why ransom should never be paid will be further discussed in this article.

Meanwhile, cybercriminals typically announce that $980 is the ransom fee expected to be paid by the victim. However, they may also add that 50% discount can be leveraged by those willing to pay within 72 hours of being asked to do so.

There are other issues victims have to contend with like how to make the ransom fee available to cybercriminals. Conventional payment methods are not acceptable to the rogues because they know it would reveal their real identity and possibly lead to arrest. So they make it mandatory that cryptocurrency must be used due to its anonymous nature.

Nevertheless, victims of ransomware attacks are generally advised never to negotiate with cybercriminals and neither should they pay ransom fee. Below are some of the reasons given:

Paying a ransom is not approved by law.
When victims pay up, they end up encouraging cybercrimes.
Records have shown that those who pay ransom to cybercriminals are usually targeted again in the future.
More funds in the hands of cybercriminals enable them to build a more sophisticated structure.

Additional malware dropped poses more risks

Victims of KCVP ransomware should be aware of the fact that cybercriminals equally use the opportunity to spread secondary malware, known as RATs. This is an apt name that was derived from Remote Access Trojans. In other words, threats like VIDAR, AZORULT or RedLine Stealer are commonly found in malware samples responsible for STOP/DJVU malware execution. These Trojans enable the perpetrators to covertly obtain sensitive personal information without the victim being aware, thereby putting them at serious risk. Software login information, browsing history, banking details, etc. could be stolen with the help of these pieces of malware in the infected computer.

To protect your computer and information kept in it, we strongly recommend that you remove KCVP ransomware virus using instructions provided by our team – you can find them below the article. The software combination we recommend using for the removal is INTEGO Antivirus along with a Windows OS-file repair tool that you can download here – RESTORO. For further instructions how to use them, follow the removal instructions below.

Ransomware Summary

Name	KCVP 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	607th
Extension	.kcvp
Cybercriminal emails	support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult or Vidar Trojan
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .kcvp 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	$490-$980 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, League of Legends.
Detection names	Trojan:Win32/Azorult.FW!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (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. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link).

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Methods used by cybercriminals in spreading ransomware

Cybercriminals use certain subtle methods to disguise their actual intentions when spreading ransomware viruses. This section explains the common ones and how they can be avoided.

Emails and attachments

The use of email and accompanying attachments is another method used by cybercriminals to spread ransomware. They might pretend to be close associate or representatives of globally recognized brands like DHL, Amazon, Yahoo or Alibaba, etc. Furthermore, they also use transactional terms such as Invoice, Order Summary or Tracking Number to label the attachment so that the receiver would be curious enough to know what is contained in the attachment. However, any attempt to open the attachment only results in malware infection. Another red flag to watch out for is when the originating email address appears to have been spoofed. Such emails should be deleted immediately.

Illegal software download sources

Cybercriminals are aware that some software users habitually look for ways they can obtain needed software without paying the official fees. So, what they do is to clone such software contents, especially those in high demand and upload them to online torrent platforms where they are shared freely. What their target audience is not aware is that ransomware virus has been embedded in them. When the unsuspecting users download them as freebies, thinking they’ve saved themselves some money, they only end up exposing their computers to a ransomware attack. Therefore, you’re better off sourcing for your software legitimately.

Those that usually seek software through file sharing measures like peer-to-peer are risking ransomware virus infection. It should also be noted that using P2P sharing method is quite comparable to stealing of intellectual property, and there can be grounds for prosecution. It takes a lot to research and develop software content, and the IT experts that invest their time and resources on it deserve their due profit. Unfortunately, when individuals make use of P2P sharing, they make it difficult for legitimate software developers to make a profit. To prevent all these, going to the official platform as endorsed by the content owners is recommended.

It should be noted that cybercriminals don’t just clone any software but mostly target those that are more popular. Remember that their intention is not to help those in need of software but to spread malware. So, when they clone software copies that are in high demand, chances are high that they would be downloaded by those in need of them. Here are some of the ones they usually clone:

Corel Draw;
Adobe Photoshop;
Microsoft Office 365;
FIFA 22;
VMware Workstation;
Internet Download Manager;
Adobe Illustrator;
Tenorshare 4ukey and many others.

The importance of removing KCVP ransomware virus ASAP

The rule of thumb is that any form of malware should be removed as quickly as possible. Immediate removal of malware would not just mitigate further damages but also make a recovery quicker. Any strong antivirus can be used to remove malware. However, it’s even lot better to have antivirus software installed and running actively at all times as a preventive measure. Our team relies on INTEGO Antivirus for KCVP virus removal. For restoration of damaged Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link).

Also, ensure to do the following:

Change all passwords.
Restore encrypted files using backup.
Let relevant local authorities know about the computer attack.
Ensure you install antivirus and keep the real-time protection feature active at all times.

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KCVP 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 KCVP 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 KCVP 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.

Alternative software recommendations

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Decrypt KCVP files

Fix and open large KCVP 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 KCVP 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. KCVP 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 KCVP 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 KCVP 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 KCVP 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 KCVP 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 KCVP 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 .KCVP files?

You can only open KCVP 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 KCVP 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 KCVP 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.