KITZ ransomware attacks and encrypts files stored on a computer
Contents
KITZ virus is a ransomware-type computer infection that encrypts all files on the system. Recognized as a variant of STOP/DJVU, it appends .kitz extension to each filename. This virus aims to make files inaccessible by applying an encryption algorithm. To illustrate how encrypted files look, see this example: files previously named 1.jpg or 2.docx appear as 1.jpg.kitz and 2.docx.kitz after being affected by the malware. To explain what has been done to personal files and provide instructions for the victim, the virus saves copies of _readme.txt ransom note throughout the system.
The operators of this ransomware intend to extort the computer user financially. They claim that the only way to recover encrypted files is to purchase a KITZ file decryption tool and a unique key. In other words, they demand a ransom in exchange for a data recovery solution.
In this article, we will overview the modus operandi of this ransomware, its distribution and removal methods, and discuss how encrypted files can be restored.
Ransom note asks to purchase a decryption tool from the criminals
The cybercriminals behind KITZ file virus seek to convince the victim to pay a ransom or, as they put it, purchase a file decryption software and a unique decryption key from them. They advise contacting them via provided emails: support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. They say that the initial price of the tools is $980, although the criminals are willing to reduce it to $490 if the victim reaches out to them within 72 hours of getting the computer infected.
The criminals explain that there is no way to recover encrypted files besides cooperating with them. They say they can prove the ability to decrypt files and ask the victim to provide a sample of an encrypted file along with the Personal ID. They also promise to attach a restored file version in their email reply.
Although this solution might seem tempting for victims who do not have data backups, we still do not recommend paying the ransom. It still provides no guarantees that data will be restored because criminals often cut communications after reaching their goal of convincing the victim to pay up. Moreover, the criminals might attempt to extort or blackmail you further, as they tend to see paying victims as easy targets.
Ransomware damage to the system
Once this ransomware infects a computer, it runs several processes programmed to carry out various illegal tasks. For example, this ransomware may try to shut down running processes, stop antivirus protection, delete Volume Shadow Copies, and meddle with Windows system files and Registry.
During the attack, the ransomware also launches information stealers on the system. Recent samples of STOP/DJVU showed the presence of AZORult, VIDAR, and RedLine. These fall under Remote Access Trojan (RAT) category and are known for their capabilities to steal saved passwords, cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history, app data, and other details.
The ransomware also puts RSA2048+Salsa20 algorithm to bad use to lock all files, and during this procedure, it also marks each file with .kitz extension and drops ransom notes in containing folders.
If you have been affected by the described threat, it is important to remove KITZ ransomware virus and all other malware from your system as soon as possible. For this matter, we have prepared detailed instructions for computer users. We also recommend using INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal – you can read our thoughts on this product in this detailed review. Additionally, download RESTORO to overview and repair virus damage to Windows OS files. This software can also be used to identify and fix various other computer problems.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | KITZ Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | JYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (find full list here) |
| Version | 684th |
| Extension | .kitz |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| 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 .kitz 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, HP/Epson printer drivers, 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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Distribution of file-encrypting computer viruses
Ransomware-type computer viruses that aim to encrypt files on computers are typically distributed in the disguise of regular files or desired downloads online. For example, cybercriminals often attempt to spread them via email spam as attachments or set up rogue websites promoting software cracks in hopes that potential victims will download them. The latter is known to be the most common distribution method associated with STOP/DJVU samples like KITZ virus.
To infect computer users via software cracks, the criminals upload these files to rogue websites or torrent listings under names of popular software. Computer users who have a bad habit of bypassing legitimate software license or subscription fees are at high risk of infecting their computers with said malware.
The malicious file usually arrives in a password-protected archive that the user needs to unlock with provided password – this is done in order to bypass antivirus detection. Inside the archive, there is a setup or installation file in .EXE format. Sadly, instead of installing anything useful, the file launches a set of malicious programs on the computer. Below, you can see comments from people that have launched this ransomware from similar downloads.
It is important to always be careful when browsing the Internet, and avoid shady places when looking for files or programs to download. Therefore, computer users should visit official or reputable websites for software downloads, and never look into cracked or pirated software versions, because these more often than not come with malicious additions.
Another popular way to infect computers is by sending phishing emails with some attachments to computer users. The cybercriminals pose as banking institutions, governmental entities, online retailers, or service providers and pretend to be writing regarding some urgent matter.
Such emails have files attached to them, which may come in MS Word, Excel, OneNote or PDF formats, and can be named as invoices, order summaries, tickets, notices, and similar. Sometimes, all that it takes to run the malicious code inside the document is opening it – however, in other cases, the user may be invited to click on an element inside the document.
In order to avoid getting tricked into launching malicious files, computer users should avoid opening emails sent by strangers or someone that one has no business with. Usually, malevolent intentions can also be identified from an urgent message tone, generic greeting line that doesn’t include recipient’s full name, and grammar/spelling errors in the message or the subject line.
Remove KITZ ransomware virus and recover your files
In case your computer was compromised by the described malware and now your files are encrypted, you need to start by deleting malicious programs from your computer first. To remove KITZ file virus and related malware, use the instructions provided below. If you’re looking for a trustworthy antivirus program to use, try INTEGO Antivirus. On top of that, you can download RESTORO, which is an excellent Windows repair tool. It can repair virus damage, fix certain Windows errors and clean junk from your PC.
Once all malware is removed, you can use data backups to recover your files. Alternatively, read this guide for STOP/DJVU ransomware victims, which explains possibilities of recovering/decrypting/repairing data locked by these file-encrypting viruses. Finally, we strongly recommend taking action to secure your accounts by changing all passwords used on the infected computer.
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Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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KITZ 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 KITZ 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 KITZ 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
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
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Decrypt KITZ files
Fix and open large KITZ 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 KITZ 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. KITZ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like JYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (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 KITZ 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 KITZ 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 KITZ 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 KITZ 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 KITZ 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
You can only open KITZ files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.
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.
Please follow the guidances provided by the official KITZ 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).
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.
Beware of fake KITZ 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 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.
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