.kmd file extension is placed on all of your files? .kmd Virus File is also known as AgeLocker ransomware which locks files on a computer and demands money to be paid as a ransom fee.
AgeLocker is a ransomware that is a bit different than other viruses that fall into the same category. It is using the age encryption library/binary of the cryptographer Filippo Valsorda. Afterward, it sends the ransom note via email to the victim.
It is otherwise known as .kmd Virus File is a ransomware-type virus. It encrypts files by appending the .kmd extension to them, making them inaccessible. All encrypted files will receive the new extension. The AgeLocker ransom note gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly restore their data by paying a ransom fee.
AgeLocker Ransomware Virus
AgeLocker Ransomware will encrypt all types of files such as audio, video, pictures, backups, banking data and other personal user files found on a compromised computer system.
.kmd virus Summary
| Name | .kmd virus |
| File Extension | .kmd |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The AgeLocker ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .kmd extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | security_audit_.eml |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .kmd virus. |
.kmd Virus File – How Did It Infect My Computer?
The .kmd virus is a ransomware release that belongs to the AgeLocker malware family. A recent code sample was acquired which gives further details about the way it runs on the target computers. For this reason, we assume that hackers are very experienced in creating malware threats.
Such viruses can be distributed using different methods, depending on the targets. This usually makes use of manipulative tactics that aim to make the users believe that they are accessing safe and legitimate sites and content. In them, the virus files, or other mechanisms that will lead to the deployment will be started. In the case of the .kmd virus files, this can be standalone executables, web scripts, or various types of infected carriers.
The web scripts can be made part of different hacker-controlled web pages, sites, and other types of Internet-accessible content. They may require some sort of user interaction, such as clicking on a link or banner to start the infection or do this automatically by the web browsers. The criminals may also create independent, small-sized executables that will directly install the relevant virus. However, in most cases the most likely way to get infected is to create payload carriers — these are special virus-infected files that are created in commonly acquired data from the Internet. Commonly they can be documents (of all popular office formats) or hacker-modified application installers of popular programs.
All virus files can be distributed on the Internet by using fake or stolen credentials. Computer hackers like to use online communities, chat rooms, forums, and etc. As always direct attacks can also be used by using different networking attacks.
The .kmd virus will start automatically when the engine is placed on a given system. This may run certain actions that are built into the behavior sequence. We assume that a typical approach will be done: the code analysis shows that the virus includes several modules that are parts of an administrative tool. This shows us that the criminals may have used a legitimate tool that has been modified to run malicious actions on the compromised computers. Such a strategy is used to manipulate the system into thinking that there is a safe program installed, this is a kind of a security bypass function.
Malware like this one is capable of hijacking information from the compromised machines. This includes all kinds of personal user’s data and operating system information. All data that is taken by hackers can be used for various crimes, including those that are related to identity or financial information.
In addition various scripts can be integrated that can lead to system changes, they can be even of these types:
- Boot Options — The virus can be set to start when the computer is turned on. It may also block access to the restore options.
- Windows Registry Changes — Any alterations to the Windows Registry and other important configuration options will lead to unexpected errors, data loss, performance issues, and other problems.
- Additional Virus Deployment — Existing infections of this ransomware type can be used to install other types of viruses. Common variants are the Trojan horse infections — they will launch a local agent hat connects to a hacker-controlled server, allowing the hackers to take over control of the systems.
In the end, a very complex cipher is applied to the target user’s data. The type of files that are processed includes the following: archives, backups, documents, multimedia files, and etc. All of them will receive the .kmd extension. In folders where there are processed data, ransom notes will be created. They will blackmail the victims into paying the hackers a decryption fee. Alternatively, some malware may enforce a lockscreen instance which will block the normal ways of interacting with the computer.
Remove .kmd Virus File
In case your computer got infected with the .kmd Virus File, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
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 .kmd virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .kmd 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 .kmd 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 .kmd 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 .kmd virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .kmd 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 .kmd 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.
.kmd virus-FAQ
What is .kmd virus Ransomware?
.kmd 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 .kmd 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 .kmd virus Infect?
Via several ways..kmd 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 .kmd 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 ..kmd virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..kmd 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 ..kmd virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..kmd virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..kmd 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 .kmd 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 .kmd virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..kmd 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 .kmd 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 .kmd virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .kmd 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 .kmd 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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