Koolova ransomware / virus (Improved Guide) - updated Dec 2016

What is Koolova ransomware virus?

Koolova virus – ransomware which asks reading articles for file decryption

Koolova ransomware is a virus which urges to read two articles for file decryption.

Koolova virus is a strange ransomware^[1] project that encrypts victims’ files with the .encrypted extension and asks to read two articles about online safety. It seems that users’ knowledge is the only thing the developers are interested in. Once the victim finishes reading the articles, he or she can decrypt the files for free. However, you should not mess up with hacker’s generosity. If you do not follow the orders, you will experience the data loss. It’s not a bluff; the virus can actually delete files. Koolova ransomware reminds of Hidden-Tear ransomware^[2] – an educational project teaching computer users about file-encrypting viruses. After infiltration, malware encrypts files and delivers a ransom screen where the hacker presents himself as “nice Jigsaw” and claims to be the twin brother for Jigsaw ransomware.

Malware researchers believe that this cyber threat is an in-development ransomware that cannot cause lots of damage yet but it might be updated to a dangerous virus. For this reason, we recommend do not delaying Koolova removal and get rid of it immediately. As soon as you decrypt your files, scan the computer with FortectIntego.

Differently from “normal” ransomware viruses, Koolova virus does not ask to pay the particular amount of money to decrypt the files. It only wants victims to read two articles about online security. In the message, the hacker claims that users should learn to be safe online, stop downloading files and programs from unsafe sources.

Well, this tip is useful, but we believe that users should be educated in other ways. However, when the user finishes reading the articles, the ransom screen displays the decryption button called “Decrypt My Files” or “Decripta I Miei File.” After that, the virus connects to its Command and Control servers^[3] and generates the decryption key which is shown in the message box.

Then, the victim can use the key to decrypt his or her files. Therefore, if you got infected with this ransomware, you can easily get back access to your files, but you should not forget to remove Koolova from the PC as well. The malware might be updated soon and attack your computer one more time. The next time you might be asked to pay a huge sum of money and lose your files.

Koolova ransomware virus is a dangerous cyber threat which is related to Jigsaw ransomware.

Meanwhile, Koolova ransomware might also cause data loss if you do not follow hacker’s orders. According to the hacker, lazy victims who don't enjoy reading and learning will have to deal with the unpleasant consequences – data loss. Indeed, malware is capable of deleting files. However, if you got scammed and your files were not decrypted, try our offered data restoring method which are provided below this text.

The ransom message looks like this:

Hello, I'm nice Jigsaw or more commonly known as Jigsaws twin.
Unfortunately all of your personal files (pictures, documents, etc…) have been encrypted by me, an evil computer virus know as 'Ransomeware'. Now now, not to worry I'm going to let you restore them but only if you agree to stop downloading unsafe applications off the internet. If you continue to do so may end up with a virus way worse than me! You might even end up meeting my infamous brother Jigsaw 🙁 While you're at it, you can also read the small article below by Google's security team on how to stay safe online. Oh yeah I almost forgot! In order for me to decrypt your files you must read the two articles below, nonce you have click the “Get My Decryption Key” button.
Then enter in your decryption key and click the “Decrypt My Files” button. Eventually all of your files will be decrypted 🙂 If the timer reaches zero then all of your personal files will be deleted because you were too lazy to read two articles. So User do you want to play a game?

Ransomware spreading techniques

According to IT specialists^[4], the most popular ransomware distribution method is malicious spam emails^[5]. Ransomware-related content usually comes as an attachment that is clipped to the dubious email message. Once the victim opens such attachment, the virus launches that same minute and starts its malicious activities.

Malware can also spread via malware-laden ads^[6], fake downloads and updates, so users have to be careful and smart while browsing the Internet. We recommend staying away from suspicious emails and their attachments, avoid visiting questionable websites and do not download any software or updates from the shady places of the Internet.

Besides, you can strengthen your computer’s security with a strong antivirus program and keep it updated. It’s also important to keep all your programs updated because it reduces the risk of ransomware attack. However, make sure that your computer security software is always kept updated.

Eliminating Koolova ransomware virus

Koolova ransomware is a computer virus which ads the .encrypted appendix to each locked file.

Even though this cyber threat allows decrypting files for free; however, you after you do it, you should not forget to remove Koolova virus from your comptuer system. It’s not the real ransomware, but you cannot be sure what other shady purposes the hacker might have. You might be infected with an updated version of this or other viruses.

Perform the Koolova removal with the help of one of these programs: FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes. These professional tools are created to clean computers from various infections, so you should not encounter any problems related to the virus elimination. However, if the elimination process is not successful for some reason, please, follow our prepared instructions below.