This article will help you learn more about information about Hknet ransomware and how to remove it step-by-step.
Hknet Virus
Hknet virus has been reported to be a strain of MedusaLocker ransomware. This malicious software is developed to encode valuable files and then extort a ransom payment for their recovery. An attack with Hknet ransomware disrupts computer operating systems security and leaves them extremely vulnerable to additional malware attacks. Furthermore, the threat transforms target files that store personal data with the help of a sophisticated cipher algorithm. As a result, corrupted files are inaccessible and marked with the extension .hknet. Finally, the ransomware drops a ransom message called Recovery_Instructions.html. The message attempts to blackmail victims to pay a ransom fee to hackers.
Hknet Virus Summary
| Name | Hknet also known as Trojan.DownLoader33.34694, Trojan.TR/AD.MedusaRansom.yvkui, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Medusa.aj, Ransom.Win32.MEDUSALOCKER.SMTH |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt valuable files stored on the infected computer and then demands a ransom for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .hknet extension. Ransom message appears on the desktop. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Software Cracks |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
More About the Distribution of Hknet Ransomware and Its Impact
Cybercriminals are likely to utilize distribution techniques like email spam campaigns, software cracks, fake software update notifications, freeware with compromised installers, and malicious web links to deliver their malicious code on PCs. All techniques aim to trick people to execute the ransomware on their devices without suspecting it will infect the whole system and data stored on it.
When loaded on a PC, the Hknet virus applies lots of malicious changes that compromise essential system settings and eventually help the ransomware to encrypt personal files.
Analyses of Hknet ransomware reveal that it is developed with the code of another ransomware we reported called MedusaLocker. This strain of the MedusaLocker is configured to misuse functionalities of some legitimate system processes in order to auto-execute malicious processes every next time you start the infected PC.
When the ransomware reaches the main attack phase – data encryption, it utilizes a built-in cipher module. During the encryption process, the Hknet virus transforms parts of the original code of target personal files. The use of a strong cipher algorithm prevents you from opening corrupted .hknet files.
At last, the ransomware drops a file that contains its ransom message. This message supports hackers’ attempts to blackmail victims to pay a hefty ransom fee for .hknet files recovery.
Beware that a ransom payment does not guarantee the recovery of .hknet files. You should avoid this action. Here is the text message of Hknet’s ransom message Recovery_Instructions.html
YOUR PERSONAL ID:
–
/!\ YOUR COMPANY NETWORK HAS BEEN PENETRATED /!\
All your important files have been encrypted!Your files are safe! Only modified. (RSA+AES)
ANY ATTEMPT TO RESTORE YOUR FILES WITH THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE
WILL PERMANENTLY CORRUPT IT.
DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES.
DO NOT RENAME ENCRYPTED FILES.No software available on internet can help you. We are the only ones able to
solve your problem.We gathered highly confidential/personal data. These data are currently stored on
a private server. This server will be immediately destroyed after your payment.
If you decide to not pay, we will release your data to public or re-seller.
So you can expect your data to be publicly available in the near future..We only seek money and our goal is not to damage your reputation or prevent
your business from running.You will can send us 2-3 non-important files and we will decrypt it for free
to prove we are able to give your files back.Contact us for price and get decryption software.
hxxp://gvlay6u4g53rxdi5.onion/21-b1BSEk5CQRRsRabMOdJNw0X1PvFfyG8d-cGkqMpSU8FqKhdyfBfMEeH6yJ7EvJwv1
* Note that this server is available via Tor browser onlyFollow the instructions to open the link:
1. Type the addres “hxxps://www.torproject.org” in your Internet browser. It opens the Tor site.
2. Press “Download Tor”, then press “Download Tor Browser Bundle”, install and run it.
3. Now you have Tor browser. In the Tor Browser open “{{URL}}”.
4. Start a chat and follow the further instructions.If you can not use the above link, use the email:
helper@atacdi.com
helper@buildingwin.com
* To contact us, create a new mail on the site: protonmail.com
Make contact as soon as possible. Your private key (decryption key)
is only stored temporarily.IF YOU DON’T CONTACT US WITHIN 72 HOURS, PRICE WILL BE HIGHER.
Remove Hknet Ransomware
The so-called Hknet ransomware is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after you remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. The steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below will help you with the complete removal process. Beware that manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide. It is also worth mentioning that personal data remains encrypted even after the complete removal of Hknet ransomware. Its removal only prevents it from causing further encryptions and security issues.
Step 5 from our Hknet ransomware removal guide presents alternative data recovery methods that may be efficient for the recovery of encrypted files. Beware that you should make copies of all encrypted files and save them on a flash drive for example before the beginning of the recovery process.
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.
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Attention! SensorsTechForum strongly recommends that all malware victims should look for assistance only by reputable sources. Many guides out there claim to offer free recovery and decryption for files encrypted by ransomware viruses. Be advised that some of them may only be after your money.
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.
How to Remove Hknet Virus from Windows.
Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Hknet Virus
Step 2: Uninstall Hknet Virus and related software 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 uninstall most programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Hknet 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 Hknet 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: Scan for Hknet Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Hknet Virus.
Ransomware infections and Hknet 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Get rid of Hknet Virus from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall Hknet Virus and remove related files and objects
1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:
- Go to Finder.
- In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
- Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
- If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.
In case you cannot remove Hknet Virus via Step 1 above:
In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:
You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:
→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons
Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.
Step 3 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Hknet Virus.
Ransomware infections and Hknet 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Hknet Virus FAQ
What is Hknet Virus ransomware and how does it work?
Hknet 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 algorithm how 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.
How does Hknet Virus ransomware infect my computer?
Via several ways.Hknet Virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing e-mails, 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.
After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.
Another way, you may become a victim of Hknet 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 .Hknet Virus files?
You can't. At this point the .Hknet Virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted.
Decryptor did not decrypt my data. What now?
Do not panic and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Hknet Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
One way to restore files, encrypted by Hknet Virus ransomware is to use a decryptor for it. But since it's a new virus, advised that the decryption keys for it may not be out yet and available to the public. We will update this article and keep you posted as soon as this decryptor is released.
How Do I restore ".Hknet Virus" files (Other Methods)?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Hknet Virus files.
These methods are in no way 100% guarantee that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How do I get rid of Hknet Virus ransomware virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti malware software. It will scan for and locate Hknet Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Hknet Virus files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like Hknet Virus ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts. Scanning your computer with an anti-malware software will make sure that all of these virus components are removed and your computer is protected in the future.
What to Do If nothing works?
There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:
- Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
- Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
- Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted it can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way to get back some of your files is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
- You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.
More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.
How to 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.
