How to remove Coban ransomware virus

Coban encrypts files “due to vulnerability in the system”

Coban is a recently file-encrypting virus that might be a new version of CryptoMix ransomware. The virus is still under investigation and these assumptions are not confirmed yet. However, it’s already known that malware locks files on the targeted computer with .coban file extension and demands Bitcoins^[1] in exchange for decryption key.

The Coban virus uses a sophisticated encryption and encrypts the most popular file types to make ransomware attack more damaging to the victim. Following data encryption, crypto-virus delivers a ransom note in “_HELP_INSTRUCTION.txt” file where cyber criminals tell victims unpleasant news:

All your files are already encrypted due to a vulnerability in the system!
For decoding it is necessary to pay ransom by bitcoins.
Bitcoins can be bought here – localbitcoins.com in many ways.
Write to us at mail ms.decry@aol.com and tell us your unique ID in the subject line. DECRYPT-ID-XXX number

The success of Coban ransomware is questionable because criminals use AOL email to communicate with the victims. There’s no doubt that AOL will quickly notice suspicious activities of the user who owns ms.decry@aol.com email address. Once the email is blocked, hackers will no longer be able to tell how much Bitcoins victims have to pay.

However, trying to contact cyber criminals and paying the ransom is never recommended. It might end up with money loss. The purpose of all ransomware-type viruses is to swindle the money from computer users. Data recovery becomes only the matter of criminals’ conscience. We always want to discourage victims of ransomware to test their luck and sponsor illegal ransomware projects. Thus, you should remove Coban without any delay.

Ransomware elimination is not a simple task. This type of cyber threat can modify Windows system, create or alter Registry and install numerous malicious components. For this reason, you should remove Coban using reputable malware removal software like FortectIntego. This security tool can quickly locate and uninstall dangerous content from the affected device.

Methods used to spread malicious programs

Coban is executed from the cc9b1e6806db5fb9628559162c3ebb62.virus file. This malicious file spreads or lurks on the Web obfuscated. It might pretend to be an important email attachment, useful program or crucial update. Therefore, users are advised to stay vigilant and back up important data.^[2]

The most common way for ransomware to get inside the system is malicious spam emails. Crooks might craft emails that look like sent from banks, governmental institutions or other popular companies. Therefore, it’s easy to get tricked and open a dangerous file. For this reason, you have to get used to double-check the information before opening any content in the email.

Additionally, ransomware might hide under suspicious ads, illegal downloads or bogus software updates. Security experts from UtanVirus^[3] warn to stay away from doubtful content and set automatic software updates to minimize the risk of the attack.

Termination of the Coban ransomware virus

The only way to remove Coban without causing damage to the system is to use reputable antivirus or malware removal software. If you are not sure what tools to use, choose one of our suggestions: FortectIntego, SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes.

Ransomware can block the installation of security software or prevent from running a full system scan. Though, to avoid this situation and perform automatic Coban removal, you should reboot the computer to the Safe Mode with Network or use System Restore method. Both ways to disable the virus are presented below.