Ransomware, created mainly for Russian speaking users, named KawaiiLocker has been reported to increasingly infect more and more users. The virus locks the files of the infected computer by encrypting them and asks the victim to pay approximately 6000 rubles (approximately 100$) to the criminals in order for them to restore access to his encrypted files. The files are then kept in a list, called crypt_list. It does not add any file extensions to the encrypted files or changes their names. Everyone who has had their files encrypted by KawaiiLocker, are strongly advised not to pay the decryption price and see alternative methods like the ones in this article to remove KawaiiLocker and restore the encrypted files.
Threat Summary
Name |
KawaiiLocker |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using a strong AES (OBD mode) encryption algorithm, making direct decryption possible only via a unique decryption key available only for the cyber-criminals. |
Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions” and a sound message all linking to a web page and a decryptor. It doesn’t change file names or file extensions. |
Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss KawaiiLocker Ransomware. |
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. |
KawaiiLocker – How Does It Infect
For it to conduct a successful infection, the KawaiiLocker virus uses a complex mechanism of coded executables, designed to hide it from any antivirus programs an make it seem as if it’s malicious file is a legitimate one (Adobe Reader, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc). There is nothing legitimate about the file, however. The KawaiiLocker virus may use an exploit kit to take advantage of an exploit in Windows or other software and via this exploit conduct a successful infection.
Furthermore, the malicious file belonging to KawaiiLocker may spread via several different methods. One of them is by being uploaded online and being drive-by downloaded onto the user’s computer automatically if the user opens the web link. Such web links are usually posted as chat spam on social media chats and communication programs, like Skype, for example.
Another form this file may assume is “the legitimate attachment”, being attached to an e-mail that usually contains a convincing message, such as “Confirmation of your payment” and other cleverly designed ones to trick inexperienced users into opening them.
Kawaii Locker Ransomware – More Information
As soon as the malware situates itself on your computer, it drops the following files:
- KawaiiLocker.exe
- HOW DECRYPT FILES.TXT
- Crypt_list
The virus also connects to the following domains:
- hxxp://7476357288-0.myjino.ru
- hxxp://81.177.139.161/
This may be for a purpose to send different information such as the decryption keys for the AES files it enciphers. The KawaiiLocker virus also looks for over 60 types of files to encrypt:
The files are encrypted using a very strong AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) encryption algorithm. In addition to this, the KawaiiLocker virus also deletes the shadow copies with the following command in Windows Command Prompt:
After the encryption, the KawaiiLocker virus leaves the HOW DECRYPT FILES.TXT file which contains it’s ransom note, written in Russian:
KawaiiLocker Ransomware – Conclusion, Removal, File Restoration
The bottom line for the KawaiiLocker virus is that it sets a lower amount for it’s victims, believing they are more likely to pay then try to decrypt their files on their own. However, malware researchers strongly recommend against paying the ransom money to the developers of KawaiiLocker, since for one it is no guarantee you will get your files decrypted and in addition to this, you support their criminal activity.
Instead, it is strongly advisable to remove the KawaiiVirus by following the removal instructions below. For maximum effectiveness, researchers strongly advise using an advanced anti-malware scanner to detect the location of all files and objects associated with KawaiiLocker. This also gives the opportunity to detect other malware if present on your computer and protect it in the future against such threats.
In case you want to decrypt your files, be advised that you can try restoring them instead, since a direct decryptor is not available at the moment. To try and restore your files see the methods in step “3. Restore Files Encrypted by KawaiiLocker” below.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for KawaiiLocker with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall KawaiiLocker 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 KawaiiLocker
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by KawaiiLocker.
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 KawaiiLocker 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.
KawaiiLocker-FAQ
What is KawaiiLocker Ransomware?
KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker Infect?
Via several ways.KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker 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 .KawaiiLocker files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .KawaiiLocker 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 .KawaiiLocker files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".KawaiiLocker" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this KawaiiLocker 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 KawaiiLocker 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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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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