How to remove Kyj Ransomware and decrypt .kyj files

What is Kyj Ransomware

Kyj Ransomware represents a new variant within the notorious Dharma ransomware family, and is actively deployed to extort victims by encrypting files on compromised systems. Once launched, it scans both local and network drives to lock a wide array of personal and business data, targeting everything from documents and images to databases. Encrypted files receive an altered name complete with the user’s unique ID, an attacker’s contact email, and the distinctive .kyj extension – a clear visual indicator of compromise. This may result in a filename like invoice.docx being transformed into invoice.docx.id-9ECFA84E-KYJ.[contact@malicious.com].kyj. The encryption process itself leverages strong, industry-standard algorithms such as AES and RSA – a hallmark of Dharma-based strains – which unfortunately means there is no feasible way to recover data without the correct private key. Once files are encrypted, the ransomware generates ransom messages in both a desktop pop-up and as a text file named info-kyj.txt, each containing instructions for contacting the criminals (via email or Telegram) and warnings against renaming files or seeking third-party help. These notes are typically placed in every affected directory to ensure the victim receives the extortion demand.

Decryption tools for this particular family are essentially nonexistent; Dharma variants, including Kyj, typically execute flawless encryption with unique keys for each infection, stored only on attackers’ remote servers. No publicly available free decryptors can restore .kyj-encrypted files at this time. Claims of recovery by third-party services should be met with skepticism, as these are often scams or simply act as intermediaries with the criminals, inflating the cost and risking sensitive information. The only methods able to restore encrypted data are the extremely rare scenario of a law enforcement server seizure, or if developers make a cryptographic mistake – both very unlikely. For most users, the safest path after infection is to remove the malware using reputable security software, isolate backups and unaffected devices, notify law enforcement, and consider professional data recovery solutions for any “shadow copies” or backups not affected by the attack. Prevention and regular, offline or cloud-based backups remain the best protection against the irreversible loss that ransomware like Kyj can inflict.

How Kyj Ransomware infects computers

Kyj Ransomware, a variant in the notorious Dharma family, typically infiltrates computers through compromised Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) services. Attackers exploit weak passwords or unpatched vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access, often using brute force techniques. Another common vector is phishing emails, where unsuspecting users are tricked into downloading malicious attachments or clicking links leading to infected websites. These emails often masquerade as legitimate communications from trusted entities, increasing their likelihood of success. Additionally, Kyj may spread through pirated software, malicious advertisements, and infected USB drives, leveraging any opportunity to bypass security defenses. Once inside, the ransomware encrypts files, appending the “.kyj” extension, and demands a ransom for decryption, leaving victims with few viable recovery options except through backups or professional cybersecurity assistance.

1. Download Kyj Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .kyj files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like Kyj Ransomware

Kyj Ransomware files:


info-kyj.txt
{randomname}.exe


Kyj Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .kyj files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .kyj files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .kyj files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with Kyj Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .kyj files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like Kyj Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. Kyj Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro