What Is Khonsari?
Khonsari is a new ransomware family recently detected in the wild. The ransomware is using the the critical Apache Log4j vulnerability, also known as CVE-2021-44228, Log4Shell and Logjam, in its attacks against Windows servers.
The ransomware uses the .khonsari extension which it appends to encrypted data. In terms of distribution, Khonsari uses the CVE-2021-44228 Apach flaw to get into vulnerable systems. Learn more about how the ransomware works and how to remove it from this article.
Khonsari Ransomware Summary
| Name | Khonsari Ransomware |
| File Extension | .khonsari |
| 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 ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .khonsari extension. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | HOW TO GET YOUR FILES BACK.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Khonsari Ransomware. |
How Did I Get Infected with Khonsari Ransomware?
Bitdefender researchers recently observed that attackers are exploiting the Log4j vulnerability to deliver malicious payloads, including the previously unknown Khonsari ransomware targeting Windows servers. This case highlights the importance of keeping all software up-to-date.
The ransomware’s payload can also be hidden in malicious spam (malspam) and phishing emails, cracked or trojanized software installers, and malicious pages (links). These are the most probable ways of ransomware infections. Usually, if a system is vulnerable or not sufficiently protected, and the user opens a malicious email attachment, the attack is initiated, ending in the encryption of all data.
What Should I Know about Khonsari Ransomware?
According to Cado Security, the exploit carrying the file-encrypting payload loads the Java bytecode at hxxp://3.145.115[.]94/Main.class via JNDI, which then downloads the Kohnsari ransomware from hxxp://3.145.115[.]94/zambo/groenhuyzen.exe.
The researchers were capable of retrieving a sample of the ransomware to perform a static and a forensic analysis.
The ransomware is coded in C# and uses the .NET framework. It retrieves the source code via decompilation in a straightforward manner, using tools such as ILspy. Once decompiled, the source code reveals what the malware’s capabilities are.
The ransomware is not that sophisticated, which is also considered a strenght as it doesn’t attract much attention.
Once it is executed, the ransomware enumerates all mounted drives, apart from C:\, initiating encryption of all contents found on the drives. It appears that encryption of the C:\ drive is more targeted – Khonsari targets user directors, including Documents, Videos, Pictures, Downloads and Desktop. Each file is encrypted via the AES-128 CBC algorithm. Once encryption is finished, the .khonsari extension is appended to encrypted data.
After encryption, Khonsari displays the following ransom note (image by Cado Security):
This is what the note says:
Your files have been encrypted and stolen by the Khonsari family.
If you wish to decrypt , call (225) 287-1309 or email karenkhonsari@gmail.com.
If you do not know how to buy btc, use a search engine to find exchanges.
DO NOT MODIFY OR DELETE THIS FILE OR ANY ENCRYPTED FILES. IF YOU DO, YOUR FILES MAY BE UNRECOVERABLE.
Your ID is:-
Remove Khonsari Ransomware
If your computer got infected with the Khonsari Ransomware, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it gets the chance to spread further and infect other computers. We advise you to remove the ransomware by following the instructions below.
In this particular case, you should also check whether you are affected by the Apache Log4j vulnerability.
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Step 1: Scan for Khonsari Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Khonsari Ransomware.
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 Khonsari Ransomware 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.
Khonsari Ransomware-FAQ
What is Khonsari Ransomware Ransomware?
Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware 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 .Khonsari Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Khonsari Ransomware 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 .Khonsari Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Khonsari Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Khonsari Ransomware 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 Khonsari Ransomware 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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