The .ke3q files virus is part of а series of ransomware strains based on the code of the so-called B2DR ransomware. Like its predecessors [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/b2dr-virus-remove-restore-b2dr-data/”] .b2dr, [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/b2dr-ransomware-remove-b2fr-restore/”] .b2fr and [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/wq2k-files-virus-remove/”] .wq2k, this B2DR iteration aims to encode valuable personal files stored on the computers it infects and then blackmails victims into paying a ransom fee to cyber criminals. Since .ke3q ransomware is known to use one of the strongest cipher algorithms – AES, for files encryption, corrupted files could hardly be recovered without proper decryption means. As a result of limited access to data stored by .ke3q files, the ransomware forces users to transfer a ransom fee to hackers’ wallet.
Threat Summary
| Name | .ke3q files virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that modifies system settings in order to become able to encrypt valauble files and extot a ransom fee for their recovery. |
| Symptoms | Important files are marked with the extension .ke3q. They cannot be opened. Hackers require ransom payment for a decryption tool. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .ke3q files 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. |
.ke3q Files Virus – Distribution Techniques and Infection Process
In order that the infection with .ke3q files virus could begin, the ransomware payload should be established and started on the system. That payload files could be spread via common techniques like malspam, malvertising, freeware packages, fake software updates, corrupted web pages, etc.
The preferred one is believed to be the malspam. This technique enables hackers to send spam emails that feature malicious code. These emails often attempt to trick users into loading the malicious code on their devices. For the purpose, they often appear to be sent by representatives of well-known companies, services, websites and even governmental institutions. So beware and practice caution before opening files attached to received emails even when they seem legitimate.
Once .ke3q files virus is run on the operating system, it triggers a long sequence of malicious operations. To complete the attack, the ransomware modifies major system settings. As a result of applied modifications, the security of the infected computer is seriously disrupted. Furthermore, as long B2DR .ke3q ransomware is active on the machine, it may enable hackers to install additional data stealer malware which could then let them obtain financial credentials, logins and other sensitive details.
The primarily goal of .ke3q files virus is to reach target files and encrypt them. To complete that goal, it utilizes a built-in encryption module that implements AES-265 encoding to all target types of files. Supposedly the ransomware is set to find and corrupt all of the following files:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
At the end of the encryption process all corrupted files become inaccessible. In addition, they are marked with a sequence of two extensions as follows:
- .open_readme.txt.ke3q
Soon after the end of the encryption process, .ke3q drops a specific file that contains a ransom message. The main purpose of this message is to blackmail you into transferring hackers a ransom fee for a decryption tool.
Here is the text presented by the file Readme.txt :
HOW TO GET MY FILES BACK?
1) Download and Install TorBrowser https://www.torproject.org/download/
2) Open link: https://helpmeplzeejynph.onion/946791530a05bf85f79ad00a5003bde4 in TorBrowser
3) Follow the instructions on the site.
Bitmessage contact: BM-NBagPL1pc8yKDocYNB95XJArzuV19GzS
https://bitmessage.org/wiki/Main_Page
—BEGIN KEY—
IAAAAHc82tPv9Wz***M7WxBkQ==
—END KEY— [420 symbols]
According to the information presented on the presented Top web page hackers could be contacted at loggitore1984@protonmail.com, loggitore1984@cock.li, loggitore1984@mailchuck.com, or loggitore1984@tuta.io email address. As of the ransom, its cost depends on:
1) Your country.
2) How quickly you contact hackers.
Since there is no guarantee that you will receive an efficient decryption tool or any tool at all, we recommend you to avoid any negotiations with cyber criminals and attempt to deal with the problem by using the help of our guide. It presents both reliable methods for ransomware removal and alternative data recovery approaches.
Remove .ke3q Files Virus and Restore Files
There is no doubt that you should remove B2DR ransomware from the infected PC as soon as you notice it. Otherwise, it has the chance to infect all devices connected to the same network. For the manual removal of .ke3q ransomware demands good computer skills. Beware that the ransomware has highly complex code that has plagued not only your files but your whole system. So security researchers recommend the help of an advanced anti-malware tool for its complete removal. Such a tool will keep your system protected against devastating threats like .ke3q and other kinds of malware that endanger PC security.
After you remove the ransomware make sure to check the “Restore .ke3q Files” from the guide below. There you could find alternative methods that may be effective for the recovery of .ke3q files. Before the beginning, you have to back up all encrypted files to an external drive and this way prevent their irreversible loss.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .ke3q files virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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.
.ke3q files virus-FAQ
What is .ke3q files virus Ransomware?
.ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files virus Infect?
Via several ways..ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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 ..ke3q files virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..ke3q files 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 ..ke3q files virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..ke3q files virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .ke3q files 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 .ke3q files 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.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.