KryptoLocker is malware that encrypts your files and demands a ransom to decrypt them. It is a serious threat because it can render your files completely inaccessible. KryptoLocker usually arrives on your computer through phishing emails or malicious websites. Once it's installed, it will scan your hard drive for certain types of files and encrypt them using strong encryption algorithms. It then displays a ransom note informing you of the encryption and how to pay the ransom.

What encryption algorithm does KryptoLocker use?

It uses 2048-bit RSA encryption, which is very difficult to break. This means that even if you have a backup of your files, you may not be able to decrypt them without the KryptoLocker decryption key.

What types of files does KryptoLocker encrypt?

This ransomware primarily targets files that are important to you and are likely to be valuable to hackers, such as documents, spreadsheets, photos, and videos.

How do I know if I have KryptoLocker?

If you see a ransom note or a countdown timer on your screen, then you may have KryptoLocker Ransomware. KryptoLocker will also append ".encrypted" or ".locked" to the end of your encrypted files.

How much is the ransom?

The ransom must be paid in Bitcoin, which makes it difficult to trace.The KryptoLocker ransom varies depending on the version of KryptoLocker, but it is typically around 2-3 Bitcoins, which is currently about USD 1000.

History

KryptoLocker Ransomware was first discovered in September 2013. It quickly became one of the most prevalent forms of ransomware, with over 250,000 victims by the end of 2013. KryptoLocker has been largely inactive since mid-2014, likely due to law enforcement action against its creators.

Prevention

The best way to prevent KryptoLocker is to be vigilant about online security. Don't open email attachments from unknown senders, and don't click on links in emails or websites that you don't trust. Be sure to have a good backup system in place so that you can recover your files if you do become a victim of KryptoLocker.

What should you do?

If you think you may have KryptoLocker, disconnect your computer from the internet immediately to prevent the ransomware from encrypting any more of your files. Then, run a malware scan with a reputable security program. Finally, contact a professional for help recovering your files.

Public decryption tool

A public decryption tool is available for a limited number of KryptoLocker variants. To see if your variant is supported, visit https://www.nomoreransom.org/en/decryption-tools.html

How to remove KryptoLocker?

KryptoLocker is difficult to remove because it uses rootkits to hide and prevent removal. It is also constantly changing to avoid detection. For these reasons, it is best to use a reputable security program to remove KryptoLocker. If you cannot remove KryptoLocker with a security program, you may need to reinstall your operating system.

Contact a data recovery service

KryptoLocker is difficult to remove and can cause serious data loss. If you have this ransomware, contact SalvageData immediately for a free consultation. We have successfully removed KryptoLocker and recovered data for many of our clients. We offer a no-risk guarantee, which means that you only pay if we can successfully remove the ransomware and recover your data.SalvageData is the premier data recovery company in North America, with over 15 years of experience. So call us today at +1 (800) 972-3282 to get started.