360,000 downloads for Kaspersky's free decryption tools

At the end of 2023, Kaspersky completed seven years as a key contributor to the 'No More Ransom' initiative. This period saw increased access to Kaspersky's free decryption tools in line with its commitment to fight ransomware. These tools, targeting 39 ransomware families, have been instrumental in helping nearly 2 million victims worldwide, Europol said, underlining the significant impact of the 'No More Ransom' initiative supported by Kaspersky.

In addition to its contribution to 'No More Ransom', Kaspersky has further cemented its commitment by creating its own 'No Ransom' website - a hub that provides a comprehensive set of resources and tools to combat ransomware infections. The 'No Ransom' portal was introduced in 2015 by Kaspersky in partnership with the Dutch National Police and has subsequently grown into a global initiative, helping people without a fee.

By the end of December 2023, Kaspersky's decryption tools had been downloaded over 360,000 times since 2018, providing victims with a lifeline to recover critical data without succumbing to ransom demands. In March 2023, Kaspersky released a new version of a decryption tool specifically designed to help victims of a ransomware based on the Conti code that had previously been leaked.

Throughout its history, Kaspersky has demonstrated a track record of success in implementing initiatives to fight cyberattacks for free. Prior to co-founding 'No More Ransom' and launching the No Ransom platform, Kaspersky introduced Stop Gpcode - an international anti-ransomware initiative in 2008.

Ransomware is malware that encrypts a user's data and requires payment for its release. Cybercriminals are introducing new ransomware modifications at an alarming rate, with Kaspersky detecting over 4,000 new ransomware files in October 2023 alone - 2.5 times more than in November 2022 (1,602). This highlights the continued importance of strong protection measures.

The 'No More Ransom' initiative was launched in 2016 by Kaspersky, Europol, the Dutch National Police among others, and is an example of law enforcement and the private sector working together to fight ransomware. This initiative provides decryption tools, educates the public about the risks of ransomware and promotes best cybersecurity practices to tackle this widespread cyber threat.

For more information on how to help fight ransomware or to learn more about the 'No More Ransom' initiative, visit the initiative's website at nomoreransom.org. All of Kaspersky's decryption tools are available at https://noransom.kaspersky.com.