.KASP file extension is placed on all of your files? .KASP Virus File is also known as KASP ransomware which locks files on a computer and demands money to be paid as a ransom for unlocking them.
KASP Ransomware (.KASP Virus File)
KASP or otherwise known as .KASP Virus File is a ransomware-type virus. It encrypts files by appending the .KASP extension to them, making them inaccessible. All encrypted files will receive the new extension. The KASP ransomware drops a ransom note, which gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly restore their data by paying a ransom fee.
KASP Ransomware Virus
KASP 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.
.KASP Virus Summary
| Name | .KASP Virus |
| File Extension | .KASP |
| 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 KASP ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .KASP extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .KASP Virus. |
.KASP Virus File – How Did It Infect My PC and What Happened?
A recently discovered .KASP virus is being spread by computer hackers in a new advanced attack campaign. The criminal group is categorized as very experienced due to the fact that many of the infections have been undetected.
This particular threat can be distributed using different infection methods. The virus code can be inserted in various payload carriers which involves the spreading of virus-infected data. Many computer threats are delivered in this way, the most common approach is to use macro-infected documents. When run they will launch a prompt that will request that the built-in code is launched to view the contents of the file. This method can also be used to generate setup installers of popular applications that are often downloaded by Internet users. The virus code can be inserted in many small-size files such as patches, add-ons, plugins and etc.
The .KASP ransomware files and all related data can be sent through phishing strategies. They can be coordinated in email messages which are prepared and sent in a bulk-like manner. The criminal group will embed graphics and contents of famous and well-known services and companies in order to manipulate the recipients into interacting with them.
The alternative is to create phishing web pages that can be hosted on similar-sounding domain names and may include self-signed security certificates. These actions are done in order to make the visitors believe that it is safe to interact with the page and the available data.
Any virus-related data can be uploaded to file-sharing networks such as BitTorrent where Internet users spread both pirate and legitimate data. Using fake or stolen credentials the hackers can alternatively post links to these files on online communities such as forums, social media, chat rooms and etc.
As soon as the virus is initiated on a given computer it will start its built-in infection sequence. One of the first modules which are started, in typical cases, is the data gathering mechanism. It is designed to scan the local hard disk contents and create a report of sensitive files, hardware components, and system variables. This data can be processed by another component which will generate a unique ID.
As part of the virus operations, the criminal group can add in many different components that can be added as part of the infection sequence. Some of the notable ones include the following:
- System Changes — As part of the malware’s infection sequence the .KASP files virus can edit the configuration files and important operating system values. This will result in severe performance issues, the inability to start certain services and functions, or even data loss.
- Persistent Installation — The .KASP virus can be installed in a way which will automatically start it when the computer is powered on. This is done by editing important values in the Windows Registry or the boot options. In some cases, this action can lead to the inability of the users to enter in the recovery boot menu.
- Additional Malware Delivery — The .KASP virus can be used to install other threats to the victim computers. This is usually used in advanced campaigns as the ransomware can remove the security features of the operating system.
- Security Bypass — The virus can be configured to identify and disable key security programs and services: anti-virus programs, firewalls, intrusion detection systems and et.
When every module has finished executing the encryption phase will start. It will follow a list of target file type extensions which will include the most common user files: documents, application data, backups, and multimedia files. Every single file of them will be processed with a strong cipher and then renamed with the .KASP extension. The victim users will be blackmailed into paying the hackers a decryption fee by generating numerous ransom notes in files called _readme.txt.
We recommend that active infections are removed as fast as possible following discovery to prevent additional damage to the systems.
Remove .KASP Virus File
If your computer got infected with the .KASP 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 .KASP Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .KASP 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 .KASP 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 .KASP 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 .KASP Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .KASP 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 .KASP 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.
.KASP Virus-FAQ
What is .KASP Virus Ransomware?
.KASP 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 .KASP 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 .KASP Virus Infect?
Via several ways..KASP 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 .KASP 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 ..KASP Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..KASP 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 ..KASP Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..KASP Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..KASP 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 .KASP 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 .KASP Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..KASP 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 .KASP 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 .KASP Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .KASP 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 .KASP 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.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
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