Karl Virus Ransomware
Karl is a malicious software functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Karl was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as soon as the file encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Karl virus includes its own “.karl” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Karl, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.karl”. When the encryption is achieved, Karl puts its own distinct text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by text file requesting the random os very similar to the notices provided by other ransomware dangers coming from the DJVU family. The warning basically shows that the information has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely true.
The technique to secure the files used by Karl is not entirely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be released a special decryption key, which is definitely distinct. It is extremely tough to recuperate the data without the suitable key in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Karl infection is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the complete control by the scoundrels who have launched the Karl virus into the web. In order to get the key and bring back the essential information, the users are told to get in touch with the frauds via e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise says that individuals should call the Karl authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Karl modified your data, nevertheless, it may not be the only threat on your PC. Plus, the ransomware might be concealed deep in the system. To discover and erase the threat totally, we advise you to describe the aid of GridinSoft Anti-Malware tool.
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online criminals will keep their guarantees, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom often does not result in a successful recovery. So, the users may simply lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Similarly, we advise you not to get in touch with the frauds as they instruct. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that could break the Karl ransomware or restore the information at no charge. For that reason, the only appropriate decision is to bring back the information from possible backups (if available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Karl Ransomware |
| File Extension | karl |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Family | DJVU |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts all the data stored on your system and requires a ransom to be paid on your part supposedly to recover your important files. |
| Symptoms | File encryption by the ransomware is performed by means of the AES-556 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .karl extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Domm, Domn, Kvag |
| Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
Do not forget that the Web is now filled with infections similar to the Karl ransomware. For instance, this specific risk is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging energies have been developed in order to secure the crucial information and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to create the particular key for effective data decryption.
Unless the Karl ransomware is still under the development procedure or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data by hand. Hence, the only working solution to prevent the loss of your crucial information is to regularly maintain updated backups of all your essential files.
Another essential piece of recommendations is to store the backups on unique storage not linked to your main PC. For instance, you might save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is very dangerous, because the backup might also be encrypted by the Karl ransomware.
Leaks for the Karl ransomware attack.
Karl uses many courses to infiltrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not specific what particular technique was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might take place by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly freeware;
- spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
- websites providing free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Karl may disguise itself as some genuine application, for instance, through the deceptive notifies demanding setup of some software upgrade. This is the most common trick used by the scams to inject the Karl infection files into the system. In this manner users partly participate in its setup, without plainly comprehending the threat.
In addition, the frauds may send unsolicited spam e-mail with challenging signals encouraging the people to open suspicious accessories or click some download links, for example, those motivating the people to open specific photos, text files, tax files and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links may basically harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player upgrade notifications may result in the Karl ransomware seepage. Likewise, downloading the split software may furthermore contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Karl may occur through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization and even authorization.
Preventing the Karl ransom virus injection.
Of course, there is no absolute assurance that your computer will be constantly without any malware attacks, nevertheless, we would like to share some beneficial pointers with you to make it much safer. Ensure to pay very close attention while browsing the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail accessories, particularly if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer may also include some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications may be extremely harmful. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your operating system in general to be always properly updated.
It is rather rational that downloading cracked apps is unlawful, however, furthermore, such unapproved software use might also bring major damage to your system. Hence, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the fact that your existing anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Karl ransomware is a good factor for you to reassess your choices and change to another program that can render the securing functions on a better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Karl text file:
ATTENTION! Don't worry, you can return all your files! All your files like photos, 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. You can get and look video overview decrypt tool: https://we.tl/t-2P5WrE5b9f Price of private key and decrypt software is $980. Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490. 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: gorentos@bitmessage.ch Reserve e-mail address to contact us: gorentos2@firemail.cc Our Telegram account: @datarestore
Screenshot of files with “.karl” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Karl ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can download GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:
2. Double-click on the setup file.
When setup file has finished downloading, double-click on the setup-antimalware-ag.exe file to install GridinSoft Anti-Malware on your computer.
An User Account Control asking you about to allow GridinSoft Anti-Malware to make changes to your device. So, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.
4. Wait for the GridinSoft Anti-Malware scan to complete.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically start scanning your computer for Win Speedup 2018 and other malicious programs. This process can take a 20-30 minutes, so we suggest you periodically check on the status of the scan process.
5. Click on “Clean Now”.
When the scan has completed, you will see the list of infections that GridinSoft Anti-Malware has detected. To remove them click on the “Clean Now” button in right corner.
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