Kovter ransomware infections have increased significantly in the second quarter of 2014, report malware researchers from the Damballa security firm. On average, the daily incidents have been up by 153% between April and May this year. The ransomware has reached an activity peak, affecting 43,713 machines in a single day.
What Is Kovter Ransomware?
Kovter is a police ransomware trojan that has been infecting computers around the world since 2013. Among the countries that suffered the most attacks are Germany, France, USA, UK, Italy and the Netherlands. Kovter uses typical ransomware tactics to extort money from its victims. It displays a fake police-message informing the user that his computer has been locked due to law-violations. In order to unlock the system, the user needs to pay a fee (usually around $300) in a short period. The payment method varies depending on the different countries. For the USA, the crooks usually require a Money Pack prepaid card. To block the access to the infected PC Kovter uses a Winlocker component.
Kovter is distributed to the user’s computer the same way other Ukash viruses are. They use malicious methods to sneak into the targeted system, relying on a trojan, hidden in illegal webpages and files.
The Unique Technique of the Kovter Ransomware
What makes Kovter different from other ransomware infections and has turned it into a severe computer threat really fast is the tactic it uses to scare its victims into paying the fee. Once in the system, Kovter starts collecting information from the browsing history of the infected PC, which is then used to create an individual ransom-message for each victim. Instead of using a generic warning, Kovter displays a message pretending to be from various institutions like the FBI, US Department of Homeland Security and the US Department of Justice, stating that the victim has downloaded illegal content online and that the compromised machine has been used to distribute it.
The Kovter Ransomware adds a unique touch to its scheme that makes it different from all other, similar threats. The ransom message includes the IP address of the infected PC and the URL, allegedly containing the “illegal content.” What Kovter does, is scanning the victim’s browser history for pornographic material. If there are any websites matching the ransomware’s threat list, they will be pointed as the source of the illegal content in the warning message. If not – the malware will “create” the evidence on its own, choosing a random pornographic site and redirecting the victim’s browser to it. Then it will log the history and retrieve content to display. This kind of “personal approach” makes the scam warning even more believable.
The Upward Trend
Although many users recognize the scam, the number of the infected machines increases each month. The victims are strongly advised not to pay the fee because there is a big chance that they will not be provided with the details for unlocking the PC.
Malware researchers detected a big increase in Kovter infections in Q2 2014. In June, the ransomware managed to hit 43,713 systems in only one day. The average daily infections were up by 153% in May and 52% in June.
Here are the numbers for Q2 2014, provided by the Damballa research team:
- April: Lowest number of daily active infections – 6 602, highest – 18 089
- May: Lowest number of daily active infections – 7 542, highest – 37 386
- June: Average amount of daily infections – 37 733, or a 52% increase, month over month
You do not have to be a part of the statistics. Assure your system’s safety by using legitimate tools to avoid computer infections and make sure your anti-virus software is up-to-date.
Spy Hunter FREE scanner will only detect the threat. If you want the threat to be automatically removed, you need to purchase the full version of the malware tool. Find Out More About SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
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- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Kovter Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Kovter Ransomware and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Kovter Ransomware on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Kovter Ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Kovter Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Kovter Ransomware.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Kovter Ransomware aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Kovter Ransomware-FAQ
What is Kovter Ransomware Ransomware?
Kovter Ransomware is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Kovter Ransomware Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Kovter Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Kovter Ransomware Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Kovter Ransomware is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Kovter Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Kovter Ransomware files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Kovter Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Kovter Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Kovter Ransomware files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Kovter Ransomware Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Kovter Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Kovter Ransomware files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Kovter Ransomware Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Kovter Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Kovter Ransomware how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Kovter Ransomware ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
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