Remove Kaaa ransomware

Kaaa ransomware is file-encrypting malware from the Djvu/STOP ransomware family. It’s a dangerous piece of malware because once files are encrypted, it’s not always possible to recover them.

 

 

When a malicious file is initiated, the ransomware immediately begins encrypting files. During encryption, it shows a fake Windows update window to distract users. Unfortunately, the ransomware targets all personal files, including photos, videos, and documents. Encrypted files will be easily recognizable because they will have a .kaaa extension attached to them.

The ransomware will drop a _readme.txt ransom note that explains how users can obtain a decryptor. Unfortunately, to get the decryptor, users are asked to pay $999. The note also mentions a 50% discount for users who make contact within the first 72 hours, as well as one free file decryption as long as it does not contain any important information.

If you do not have a backup, paying might seem like the best option. However, we feel it’s necessary to warn you that even if you pay, you will not necessarily receive a decryptor. You are dealing with cyber criminals, and there is nothing to force them to keep their end of the deal. Countless ransomware victims have not received their decryptors despite paying, and it’s more likely than not that this would happen to you.

Below is the full _readme.txt ransom note:

ATTENTION!

Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
Do not ask assistants from youtube and recovery data sites for help in recovering your data.
They can use your free decryption quota and scam you.
Our contact is emails in this text document only.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
********
Price of private key and decrypt software is $1999.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $999.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@freshingmail.top

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelpyou@airmail.cc

Your personal ID:

If you have a backup, you can start recovering your files as soon as you remove Kaaa ransomware from your computer. We strongly recommend using an anti-malware program for this because it’s a complex infection. Only when the ransomware is no longer detected on your computer should you connect to your backup.

If you do not have a backup, your only option is to wait for a free Kaaa ransomware decryptor to be released. However, whether one will be released is not certain because Djvu ransomware versions are difficult to crack for malware researchers. There is a free Dvju/STOP decryptor developed by Emsisoft but it only works on older versions. Unless an offline key was used to encrypt your files, it’s unlikely that the decryptor will work on your files. But if you’re out of options, back up the encrypted files and occasionally check NoMoreRansom for a decryption tool. If a legitimate Kaaa ransomware does get released, it will be available on NoMoreRansom.

How did Kaaa ransomware enter my computer?

Kaaa ransomware is distributed via the usual malware distribution methods. Users with poor browsing habits are much more likely to pick up malware because they engage in risky behavior. Developing better online habits and becoming more familiar with malware distribution methods is an effective way to prevent a malware infection.

Torrents are a great way for cybercriminals to distribute malware because plenty of users do not know what malware in a torrent looks like. Malware is often found in torrents for popular entertainment content like movies, TV series, and video games. So not only is using torrents to download copyrighted content theft, but it’s also dangerous for the computer.

Malware is also often distributed via email attachments. Malicious files can be attached to emails that are made to appear like legitimate companies, such as parcel delivery services, sent them. The emails usually mention that attachments are important files that need to be reviewed immediately. Creating a sense of rush is an effective tactic that often pressures users into opening email attachments without double-checking them.

Malware-ridden emails that target many users at the same time are very generic and easy to identify. First of all, they are full of grammar/spelling mistakes. Mistakes are an immediate giveaway because you will not see mistakes in legitimate emails. Second, malicious emails use generic words like User, Member, Customer, etc., to address users despite claiming that users use their services. Legitimate emails sent by companies whose services you use will address you by name because that makes the emails more personal.

Even if an email looks completely legitimate, it’s still recommended to scan unsolicited email attachments with anti-malware software or VirusTotal before opening them.

How to remove Kaaa ransomware

Ransomware is a complex infection and its removal may be difficult. Thus, we strongly recommend you use a reliable anti-malware program to remove Kaaa ransomware. Unless you know exactly what you’re doing, we do not recommend you manually remove Kaaa ransomware because you could end up causing more damage.

Once your anti-malware program removes the ransomware and the scans are clear, you can connect to your backup and recover your files. If you do not have a backup, your only option is to back up encrypted files and wait for a free Kaaa ransomware decryptor to be released.

Kaaa ransomware is detected as:

FileRepMalware [Ransom] by Avast/AVG
HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Strab.gen by Kaspersky
Trojan.MalPack.GS by Malwarebytes
Artemis!14D420D8A346 by McAfee
Trojan:Win32/Sabsik.FL.B!ml by Microsoft
ML.Attribute.HighConfidence by Symantec