What is Keslan virus ransomware? How does Keslan virus work? How to open Keslan virus files? How to remove Keslan virus and try to restore files, encrypted by it?
The Keslan virus is actually a ransomware infection, whose main idea is to make sure that you won’t be able to use your files anymore, until you pay ransom to the cyber-criminals who are behind it. The main idea of this is that your files get blocks of their data replaced with data from the AES encryption algorithm used by the Keslan virus. The virus then adds its own file extension and drops a ransom note file. This file’s main purpose is to get victims to pay ransom to get your files to be decrypted using the unique decryption key that is generated and held by the crooks. Read this article to learn how to remove Keslan virus from your computer and learn how to recover data encoded by it.
Threat Summary
| Name | Keslan virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt files and then ad its custom file extension to them. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted and cannot be opened. The Keslan virus also drops a ransom note file, containing the extortionist message. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Keslan virus. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
In December 2019 a new sample of the .Sifrelendi Keslan ransomware has been detected. This shows that the virus is still being spread across the world. The method of distribution of the samples is done by inserting the Keslan virus code into executable files. We assume that the most popular distribution techniques are used once again. The performed security analysis gives detailed information on what modules are to be run.
One of the first components is the data removal — it will search for valuable data that will be wiped from the system. This includes all sorts of backups, Shadow volume copies and archives. This step will make recovery much more difficult and the users will have to use a professional-grade data recovery in order to effectively restore their computers.
It can also interact with already installed processes which is commonly done to spy on the victims activities. By accessing the web browsers the hackers can acquire sensitive information about the habits of the victims and stored credentials to commonly accessed services. By overtaking control of the programs they can manipulate fields and cause unexpected behavior. When every component has finished running the encryption phase will follow.
Following the ongoing attack campaigns carrying the Keslan ransomware there have been numerous attempts at taking down computer systems. More specific information about the hackers behind attacks is not available, we do not know if the intrusions are carried out by one collective or several different groups.
One of the latest virus strains adds the .EXT extension to the processed files. The victims will find that a lot of their data will not be accessible. The victims will find that the Keslan virus varant that adds this particular extension will not create a ransom note.
The next release of the Keslan (Sifrelendi) ransomware threat is a new iteration encrypting files with the .Deniz_Kızı extension. To differentiate itself from prior sample it is being distributed using an executable file. The captured samples indicate that it is called ransomware downloader yeni.exe which alludes to the fact that the criminal collective is sending out double extension files.
Keslan virus Ransomware – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
The Keslan virus is a malware family of several distinct viruses which have been made by a supposedly Turkish hacking group. Reports about these strains have appeared at te same time indicating that they have been launched against the intended victims. What we know about these versions is that they same the same code base and only feature a different expression in their second stage — the encryption phase.
The distribution techniques used by the virus creators can range from the most common ones to other which are used only in certain situations. This includes the creation of email messages which will contain links to the virus files or attach them directly. Phishing strategies also make use of hacker-made sites that are hosted on domain names that sound similar to legitimate sites.
Keslan virus infections are often caused by interacting with infected files. They can be either malware documents or dangerous application installers. All files are made to impersonate commonly used data. They can be distributed over file-sharing sites and also social networks where the criminals can use fake or hacked accounts.
The security report shows that the Keslan virus family of ransomware is based on the well-known Hidden Tear code base. Given the description it is very possible that the hackers are not very experienced in order to have created this new threat.
Such viruses can be easily customized to lead to dangerous actions. The type of malware activity will depend on the local machine conditions or the specific hacker instructions. At this point we can only list some of the possible modules that are often engaged in such threats:
- Boot Options Changes — The Keslan virus and its associated derivatives can be set to modify the system in a way which will automatically launch the ransomware when the computer boots.
- Windows Registry Changes — The main engine can also make changes to the Windows Registry which will lead to severe performance issues. When existing values have been changed it can also lead to issues when running certain programs.
- Additional Virus Delivery — The existing Keslan virus can be used to lead to other infections including Trojans and cryptocurrency miners.
In the end the actual encryption module will be run. Using a built-in list of target file type extensions and a strong cipher the victims will find most of their files inaccessible. This can include sensitive data like their music or family photos. Commonly ransomware variants will act against common data like documents, multimedia files, archives and databases. The Keslan virus will place a respective extension: .TR, .MMTeam, .Sifrelendi, .TMTEAM or .TRSomware. A ransomware note will be created in several text files written in Turkish. Its aim is to manipulate the victims into paying the hackers a set decryption fee.
Remove Keslan and Try Restoring Files
To remove Keslan virus from your computer, we strongly recommend that you read the instructions underneath. They have been created with the primary purpose to help you remove the Keslan virus files and try to restore all encrypted data. For a faster and effective removal, we strongly recommend that you download and run a scan of your computer using a professional malware removal software. Such program has been made with the main idea to help you erase all traces of the Keslan virus from your machine by scanning for its files and objects. It can also protect you from future threats and intrusive software of this type.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for Keslan virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Keslan virus and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Keslan virus on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Keslan virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Keslan virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Keslan virus.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Keslan virus aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Keslan virus-FAQ
What is Keslan virus Ransomware?
Keslan virus is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Keslan virus Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Keslan virus Infect?
Via several ways.Keslan virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Keslan virus is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Keslan virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Keslan virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Keslan virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Keslan virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Keslan virus files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Keslan virus Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Keslan virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Keslan virus files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Keslan virus Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Keslan virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Keslan virus how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Keslan virus ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
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