Kitu – Ransomware
Kitu is a malicious software functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, very first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Kitu was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as soon as the encryption is successfully accomplished, the users are unable to get access to them. Kitu virus includes its own “.kitu” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Kitu, will be titled as “price_list.xls.kitu”. When the file encryption is accomplished, Kitu puts its own distinct text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by document asking for the random os very comparable to the notifications offered by other ransomware risks belonging to the DJVU family. The warning generally indicates that the data has been encrypted and the only solution to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely true.
The method to encrypt the files used by Kitu is not entirely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be provided a special decryption key, which is absolutely unique. It is incredibly difficult to recuperate the information without the appropriate type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Kitu virus is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the total control by the crooks who have actually introduced the Kitu virus into the web. In order to obtain the key and restore the crucial information, the users are informed to connect with the scams via e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message also says that individuals must call the Kitu authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information file encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so individuals will obtain a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Kitu crypted your information, however, it might not be the only risk on your computer. Plus, the ransomware might be hidden deep in the system. To discover and delete the threat completely, we recommend you to describe the aid of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly encourage that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online criminals will keep their promises, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is received into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom typically does not result in a successful recovery. So, the users may merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we advise you not to get in touch with the scams as they instruct. Do not move money into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Kitu virus or restore the data for free. For that reason, the only appropriate decision is to bring back the information from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Kitu Ransomware |
| File Extension | kitu |
| 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-256 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .kitu extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Kitu Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Kitu Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now full of infections comparable to the Kitu ransomware. For example, this specific danger is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful utilities have been developed in order to encrypt the crucial data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the identical algorithm to produce the specific key for effective files decryption.
Unless the Kitu ransomware is still under the development process or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information by hand. Hence, the only working solution to avoid the loss of your crucial data is to regularly preserve current backups of all your important files.
Another essential piece of recommendations is to save the backups on unique storage not connected to your primary computer. For example, you might save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your regular drive is really dangerous, because the backup may likewise be secured by the Kitu .
Leakages for the Kitu ransomware attack.
Kitu uses many paths to infiltrate the vulnerable computers. It is not certain what particular technique was utilized in your case, however, the invasion might occur by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily free software;
- spam emails from the unidentified senders;
- websites providing free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Kitu ransomware may disguise itself as some genuine application, for instance, through the deceptive signals requiring installation of some software application update. This is the most typical technique used by the scams to inject the Kitu infection files into the system. This way users partially participate in its installation, without clearly understanding the risk.
Furthermore, the scams might send out unsolicited spam e-mail with challenging alerts encouraging individuals to open suspicious accessories or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging the people to open specific photos, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the harmful links may essentially harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player upgrade notifications may lead to the Kitu ransomware seepage. Similarly, downloading the split software may furthermore consist of the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Kitu may take place through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization and even approval.
Preventing the Kitu injection.
Naturally, there is no absolute warranty that your computer system will be always devoid of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we would like to share some useful pointers with you to make it safer. Ensure to pay extremely attention while searching the web and specifically while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail attachments, particularly if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer might also include some other additional apps in the bundle. These additional applications may be very damaging. It is of utmost importance to keep your anti-virus software and your operating system in basic to be constantly appropriately upgraded.
It is rather logical that downloading cracked apps is prohibited, nevertheless, additionally, such unauthorized software use may also bring major damage to your computer. Thus, do not download any split programs. Plus, the fact that your existing anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Kitu ransomware is a good factor for you to reassess your options and switch to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Kitu 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: restorealldata@firemail.cc Reserve e-mail address to contact us: gorentos@bitmessage.ch Our Telegram account: @datarestore
Screenshot of files with “.kitu” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Kitu 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.
Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore kitu files
You can download Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:
- Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
- Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
- By default, the decryptor will pre-populate the locations to decrypt with the currently connected drives and network drives. Additional locations can be added using the Add” button.
- Decryptors typically offer various options depending on the particular malware family. The available options are located in the Options tab and can be enabled or disabled there. You can find a detailed list of the available Options below.
- After you have added all the locations you want to decrypt to the list, click the “Decrypt” button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files
- The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your personal records, you can save it by clicking the “Save log” button. You can also copy it straight to your clipboard to paste it into emails or forum posts if you are asked to.
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