Koti ransomware (Virus Removal Instructions) - Free Guide

Koti virus Removal Guide

What is Koti ransomware?

Koti is the 226th Djvu ransomware family member that emerged in the middle of May 2020

Koti ransomware noteKoti ransomware is a version of the infamous STOP/Djvu ransomware

Koti ransomware is the latest version of the infamous Djvu family of crypto-malware. Resurfaced in the middle of May 2020, it takes the 226th position in the list of STOP/Djvu variants and stands in line with .mpal, .sqpc, and .mzlq entries. Alike its predecessors, Koti ransomware uses RSA encryption model to lock non-system files and uses a standard _readme.txt ransom note. Besides, it is using the .koti file extension to separate encrypted documents, pictures, videos, photos, databases, archives, and other data from the others.

The criminals behind Koti ransomware are using the helpmanager@mail.ch and restoremanager@firemail.ch emails for contacts. Apparently, they are using the same extortion scheme as the victims are demanded to pay the $980 in Bitcoins as a ransom for a decryptor, though promise to double down the price if the payment comes within 72 hours.

Name Koti
Family The infamous group of STOP / Djvu ransomware
Detection May 2020. The first ransomware sample has been uploaded into the official Emsisoft's support[1] site
Classification The Koti virus falls for the ransomware or file-encrypting malware group
Version number This ransomware is currently the latest djvu version, which stands 226th in the list
File marker The viruses uses .koti file extension to mark locked files
Encryption model RSA
Distribution This extortionist is typically distributed via malicious e-mail message attachments, unprotected RDP ports, P2P networks, or pirated software
Other traits One the payload is launched, the ransomware locks files and drops a ransom note _readme.txt, which contains a detailed guide on how to pay the ransom
Payment conditions Criminals urge victims to pay $490 if the payment is transferred within 72 hours. If the victim delays the payment, the price is doubled and reaches $980. The only currency accepted – Bitcoin.
Detection It is not possible to detect malicious ransomware files manually. The detection and removal of the intruder is possible with a professional AV engine.
Damage The ransomware removal does not ensure full recovery of the affected system files. To fix Windows registry entries, boot files, and other core components, use FortectIntego utility.

Koti ransomware has been expected to manifest in May, since Djvu ransomware is infamous for its regular release of renewed versions. The first sample of this virus has been uploaded into Emsisoft's support forum where the victim presented the _readme.txt file accompanied by a file locked by .koti file extension.

A close investigation proved the evidence of Koti to be rooted from Djvu ransomware family. It uses a similar base for the distribution, infiltration, encryption, and extortion. According to researchers, its payload is typically distributed via obfuscated spam email attachments or pirated software. Besides, it may also be used for spreading the infamous AZORult trojan as a secondary payload.

Upon successful infiltration, the ransomware begins the first phase of the deployment. The malware settles down multiple boot processes, launches PowerShell to delete Shadow Volume Copies, and disables the AV engine to evade immediate removal. Koti ransomware may also corrupt Windows host files and establish firewall access to security-related forums and websites containing guidelines on how to remove the ransomware and recover damaged files.

This cyber infection is not a threat to mess with as it may cost you a permanent file loss. The best solution for its victims is a full Koti ransomware removal using a program like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, Malwarebytes, or another professional antivirus tool. This file-encrypting virus can not only encrypt the data on the host machine, but also plant multiple malicious files, compromise the system severely, and download the Azorult trojan as a secondary payload. Consequently, criminals may get access to your personally identifiable information (PII)[2], including saved passwords, banking information, login details, etc.

The changes that the Koti ransowmare initiates can hardly be overlooked. Initially, it starts running malicious processes within Task Manager, which is why CPU usage may increase significantly. The most obvious sign indicating ransomware infection is the .koti file extension appended to the pictures, archives, Microsoft Office documents, videos, and other non-system files.

Koti ransom note exampleKoti ransomware is a dangerous file-locking virus that appends .koti file extension to encrypted files and demands victims to pay the ransom

As a final point, the virus creates a _readme.txt ransom note on the random system's folders and the desktop. The note contains the detailed instructions on how to contact ransomware developers and how to transfer the ransom. In short, the victims are expected to contact the crooks via the helpmanager@mail.ch and restoremanager@firemail.ch emails and transmit a ransom, which varies from $480 to $980 in Bitcoins.

ATTENTION!

Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-EEHXgjySek
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
helpmanager@mail.ch

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
restoremanager@firemail.ch

Your personal ID:

Indeed, criminals who promote this ransomware virus expects to extort as much money as possible. However, our biggest piece of advice is to remove Koti ransomware in the first place and then try to recover files using third-party software. Do not get scared by claims that you will lose the files permanently by running an AV scan. Criminals use such and similar scare tactics to catch victims on the hook.

After full Koti ransomware removal, you can start thinking about a recovery of the encrypted data. Since Djvu is one of the largest ransomware families on the surface, cybersecurity experts have invested much time to develop a free decryption software. At the moment, the Dr. Web Rescue Pack is probably the most reliable tool for retrieving files. However, not all Djvu variants can successfully be crashed by this tool. In case of a failure, try alternative data recovery methods listed at the end of this article.

Methods that criminals engage for ransomware distribution

Experts from LosVirus.es[3] provided us with their findings on the methods that cybercriminals are typically using to spread ransomware infections. According to them, the most popular medium to spread malicious payloads is spam. Hackers craft reliable-looking email messages mimicking the style of various companies (DHL, FedEx, White House, Red Cross, etc.) and disguise ransomware under infected “order confirmations” or similar attachments.

Nevertheless, spam email attachments are not the only ransomware transmitters. Crooks often exploit vulnerable Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) network connections and use brute-force attacks to infect target systems. The TCP port 3389 is one of the most frequently exploited vulnerabilities allowing criminals to easily attack potential victims. P2P networks, illegal or hacked websites, software cracks, keygens, and other online content that can easily be exploited by hackers.

Koti spam emailsKoti ransomware is typically distributed via malicious spam email attachments

Thus, having an anti-virus program installed is not sufficient to protect the system from malware. A user's consciousness is equally important. First of all, people should start taking care of the backups, at least backup the most important data, such as documents or family photos. Second of all, think twice before downloading illicit software or visiting potentially dangerous domain.

Use a professional AV engine to remove Koti ransomware

Koti ransomware removal requires the usage of a powerful antivirus program. If you've ever dealt with a ransomware-type virus, you should know that manual removal is not possible under any circumstances. File-encrypting viruses are built in a very comprehensive manner as they infiltrate tens of malicious files in diverse system's places to make Windows conform to malicious commands.

Before any attempts to remove Koti ransomware, we recommend copying encrypted files to alternative storage, bet it USB flash drive or cloud. That's a necessary precautionary measure to prevent permanent loss of files encrypted by .koti file extension.

For a full Koti removal use SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, Malwarebytes or an alternative AV engine of your preferences. After that, try to recover the data using the recovery solutions provided below.

Offer
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Intego Happiness
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Compatible with Microsoft Windows Compatible with macOS
What to do if failed?
If you failed to fix virus damage using Fortect Intego, submit a question to our support team and provide as much details as possible.
Fortect Intego has a free limited scanner. Fortect Intego offers more through scan when you purchase its full version. When free scanner detects issues, you can fix them using free manual repairs or you can decide to purchase the full version in order to fix them automatically.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Fortect, try running SpyHunter 5.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Intego, try running Combo Cleaner.

Getting rid of Koti virus. Follow these steps

Manual removal using Safe Mode

Since the malicious files run by Koti ransomware can block antivirus programs, you may need to reboot the system into Safe Mode to enable the security program.

Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.

Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking

Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment. 

Windows 7 / Vista / XP
  1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
  2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
  3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list. Windows 7/XP
Windows 10 / Windows 8
  1. Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
    Settings
  2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
    Update and security
  3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
  4. Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
  5. Click Restart now.
    Reboot
  6. Select Troubleshoot. Choose an option
  7. Go to Advanced options. Advanced options
  8. Select Startup Settings. Startup settings
  9. Press Restart.
  10. Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking. Enable safe mode

Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes

Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Click on More details.
    Open task manager
  3. Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
  4. Right-click and select Open file location.
    Open file location
  5. Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
    End task
  6. Delete the contents of the malicious folder.

Step 3. Check program Startup

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Go to Startup tab.
  3. Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
    Startup

Step 4. Delete virus files

Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:

  1. Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
    Disk cleanup
  2. Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
  3. Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:

    Temporary Internet Files
    Downloads
    Recycle Bin
    Temporary files

  4. Pick Clean up system files.
    Delete temp files
  5. You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):

    %AppData%
    %LocalAppData%
    %ProgramData%
    %WinDir%

After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.

Remove Koti using System Restore

Use these steps to activate System Restore and prevent all malicious activities from continuation

  • Step 1: Reboot your computer to Safe Mode with Command Prompt
    Windows 7 / Vista / XP
    1. Click Start Shutdown Restart OK.
    2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
    3. Select Command Prompt from the list Select 'Safe Mode with Command Prompt'

    Windows 10 / Windows 8
    1. Press the Power button at the Windows login screen. Now press and hold Shift, which is on your keyboard, and click Restart..
    2. Now select Troubleshoot Advanced options Startup Settings and finally press Restart.
    3. Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt in Startup Settings window. Select 'Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt'
  • Step 2: Restore your system files and settings
    1. Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter. Enter 'cd restore' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    2. Now type rstrui.exe and press Enter again.. Enter 'rstrui.exe' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    3. When a new window shows up, click Next and select your restore point that is prior the infiltration of Koti. After doing that, click Next. When 'System Restore' window shows up, select 'Next' Select your restore point and click 'Next'
    4. Now click Yes to start system restore. Click 'Yes' and start system restore
    Once you restore your system to a previous date, download and scan your computer with FortectIntego and make sure that Koti removal is performed successfully.

Bonus: Recover your data

Guide which is presented above is supposed to help you remove Koti from your computer. To recover your encrypted files, we recommend using a detailed guide prepared by 2-spyware.com security experts.

Unfortunately, the official Koti decryptor hasn't yet been developed. Nevertheless, there's a handful of options that you can try to recover data compromised by this malicious virus. 

If your files are encrypted by Koti, you can use several methods to restore them:

Run a scan with a Data Recovery Pro

Data Recovery Pro is a program that may help to retrieve at least a part of the documents damaged by ransomware. Nevertheless, before launching it, make sure that you have initiated a successful Koti removal. 

  • Download Data Recovery Pro;
  • Follow the steps of Data Recovery Setup and install the program on your computer;
  • Launch it and scan your computer for files encrypted by Koti ransomware;
  • Restore them.

Try Windows Previous Version feature

If you have had enabled the Windows Previous Version feature on your PC, then try getting your files back using this software.

  • Find an encrypted file you need to restore and right-click on it;
  • Select “Properties” and go to “Previous versions” tab;
  • Here, check each of available copies of the file in “Folder versions”. You should select the version you want to recover and click “Restore”.

Recover files from Volume Shadow Copies

It is known that most of Djvu ransomware variants are programmed to remove Volume Shadow Copies. Nevertheless, it's not clear if Koti ransomware virus deletes these copies, so if none of the previous recovery options helped, give Volume Shadow Copies a try. 

  • Download Shadow Explorer (http://shadowexplorer.com/);
  • Follow a Shadow Explorer Setup Wizard and install this application on your computer;
  • Launch the program and go through the drop down menu on the top left corner to select the disk of your encrypted data. Check what folders are there;
  • Right-click on the folder you want to restore and select “Export”. You can also select where you want it to be stored.

No official Koti decrypted available

Since Koti is a fresh cyber infection, researchers did not manage to create a decryption software for it. Nevertheless, it's advisable to try a DrWeb Rescue Pack

Moreover, a member of the ransomware hunters team called DemonSlay355 launched a free STOPdecryptor, which can help people decrypt some of the Djvu variants that have a personal ID number 6se9RaIxXF9m70zWmx7nL3bVRp691w4SNY8UCir0. If such a number has been generated for you by Koti ransomware, you can download a decryptor from here

Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from Koti and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes

How to prevent from getting ransomware

Access your website securely from any location

When you work on the domain, site, blog, or different project that requires constant management, content creation, or coding, you may need to connect to the server and content management service more often. The best solution for creating a tighter network could be a dedicated/fixed IP address.

If you make your IP address static and set to your device, you can connect to the CMS from any location and do not create any additional issues for the server or network manager that needs to monitor connections and activities. VPN software providers like Private Internet Access can help you with such settings and offer the option to control the online reputation and manage projects easily from any part of the world.

 

Recover files after data-affecting malware attacks

While much of the data can be accidentally deleted due to various reasons, malware is one of the main culprits that can cause loss of pictures, documents, videos, and other important files. More serious malware infections lead to significant data loss when your documents, system files, and images get encrypted. In particular, ransomware is is a type of malware that focuses on such functions, so your files become useless without an ability to access them.

Even though there is little to no possibility to recover after file-locking threats, some applications have features for data recovery in the system. In some cases, Data Recovery Pro can also help to recover at least some portion of your data after data-locking virus infection or general cyber infection. 

 

About the author
Linas Kiguolis
Linas Kiguolis - Expert in social media

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References
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