Do you know what Kronos Ransomware is?
Kronos Ransomware is a threat that uses a robust encryption algorithm to encrypt users’ files. The malware was programmed to do it so that its developers could gain leverage over their victims. As you see, it is impossible to restore encrypted files without specific decryption tools. Of course, some users may have backup copies, which they could use to replace encrypted data. As for those who might not have any options, they might be willing to comply with the malicious application’s developers’ demands. Based on the notification that the threat ought to display after encrypting files, it looks like the hackers want to be paid in Bitcoins. Needless to say that putting up with their demands could be a mistake as you might get scammed. Thus, if you are considering paying a ransom as an option, we advise doing so carefully. To learn more about Kronos Ransomware, you should continue reading our report.
It might look like the malicious application appeared out of nowhere. Usually, it is because threats like Kronos Ransomware are spread via disguised files that may seem harmless. After trying to open such a file, the victim might think there is something wrong with it when it does not open or does not provide the material that it is supposed to contain. While a victim might be looking for a solution on how to view or launch the received or downloaded file’s content, the threat could be already installed and in the middle of the encryption process. Files infected with ransomware often travel with Spam emails. Also, they can be spread through unreliable file-sharing websites or unsecured RDP connections. Thus, to stay away from such threats, it is vital to be careful with email attachments, to avoid downloading data from unreliable websites, and to eliminate your computer’s weaknesses like weak passwords, outdated software, and so on.
If a user opens a file carrying Kronos Ransomware, the threat might start running in the background and begin encrypting the user’s data. According to our computer security specialists, Kronos Ransomware ought to encrypt files considered to be personal, for example, photos, text files, videos, etc. After being encrypted, the targeted data ought to receive a unique extension that might look like this: Email=[Rezcrypt@cock.li]ID=[lodA2FDY3J8PqGv].KRONOS. Only the ID part should be unique to each victim, while the email address and .KRONOS part should remain the same. After the malicious application encrypts files it targets, it should drop a file called HowToDecrypt.txt. It could appear on your screen or any directory containing encrypted data. The text provided in the note ought to ask to contact the malware’s developers and pay a ransom. It is said a user can send a single file for free decryption as a guarantee. Even so, keep in mind, there is still a risk you could get scammed.
It is advisable to erase Kronos Ransomware if you want your system to be malware-free. To achieve this, you could scan your computer with a reputable antimalware tool and press its provided deletion button to eliminate Kronos Ransomware and other possible threats. As for users who wish to deal with the malicious application in question manually, we advise following the removal guide placed below.
Erase Kronos Ransomware
- Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
- Pick Task Manager and check the Processes tab.
- Locate a process belonging to the malware.
- Choose the process and click End Task.
- Exit Task Manager.
- Click Windows Key+E.
- Navigate to the suggested paths:
%TEMP%
%USERPROFILE%Desktop
%USERPROFILE%Downloads - Find a malicious file that you suspect infected your system with Kronos Ransomware, right-click the malicious file, and select Delete.
- Look for a file titled HowToDecrypt.txt, right-click it, and choose Delete.
- Exit File Explorer.
- Empty Recycle bin.
- Restart the computer.
In non-techie terms:
Kronos Ransomware can deprive you of your photos, documents, and other kinds of personal files if your system gets infected with it. The malware encrypts a user’s data with a robust encryption algorithm and, as a result, affected files become unrecognizable and can only be restored with special decryption tools. The malware’s developers may promise to deliver such tools if a user pays a ransom, but it is essential to understand that dealing with cybercriminals could be risky and may not end as you might hope it would. If you do not think you can trust cybercriminals and do not want to pay a ransom, we advise ignoring the malware’s note. Next, we recommend deleting Kronos Ransomware with the removal guide available above or a reputable antimalware tool of your choice. The moment your system is malware-free again, it should be safe to replace encrypted data with backup copies that you may store on cloud storage, removable media devices, or somewhere else.