This article has been created in order to explain what is .koreaGame files virus and how to remove it from your computer. In addition, a free decryption solution for .koreaGame files is presented in the guide at the end.
The .koreaGame files virus is reported as a new iteration of Jigsaw ransomware. The infection infiltrates computer systems to encrypt important data stored on them so it can then demand a ransom for a decryption solution. Once the threat is running on the system it modifies essential settings in order to use some of the system’s functionalities and ensure its persistence on the infected host. At the end of the attack corrupted files can be recognized by the extension .koreaGame appended to their original names. They remain inaccessible until a working decryption solution is obtained and applied. In addition, a ransom note could appear on the PC screen to blackmail users into paying the demanded ransom. Keep reading to understand how you can remove .koreaGame files virus completely from the infected system and restore encrypted files without paying the ransom.
Threat Summary
| Name | .koreaGame |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The .koreaGame files virus is a data locker ransomware that encrypts files stored on infected hosts and drops a ransom note to demand ransom payment. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encrypted and renamed with the extension .koreaGame. The access to encrypted files is restricted. A ransom payment is demanded. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .koreaGame. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
.koreaGame Files Virus – Ways of Distribution
One of the possible ways of infection is after a visit of compromised web page that is set to install .koreaGame file virus directly on the target host. The links to such pages can be pushed by various advertising campaigns, posted on social media channels or presented in email spam messages.
Often the ransomware payload may be embedded on documents that are then attached to email spam messages. Beware and practice caution before you decide to download and open files from the emails you receive even when they seem legitimate. It is a common practice of hackers to pose as representatives of well-known companies, services, websites and even governmental institutions in an attempt to trick users into infecting themselves with devastating infections like .koreaGame ransomware virus.
It is also possible to execute unnoticeably the ransomware payload during the installation of a desired free app as its code may be incorporated into the installer.
.koreaGame Files Virus – More Information
Once .koreaGame ransomware virus is running on the system it initiates a sequence of malicious activities in order to plague the system and then encrypt target files. At first, it may drop additional malware files and objects by connecting to its servers. It is also possible that the threat will create some new files on the system which can then hook legitimate Windows processes in order to utilize their range of capabilities and remain undetected.
Even though the ransomware may be designed to delete its traits after it plagues the system, some of its malicious files may remain on the system. There are several essential Windows system folders where malicious files may be stored:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
Next, .koreaGame data locker may access Windows Registry Editor to create malicious values under some main sub-keys. Like the majority of ransomware infections, the new Korean Jigsaw variant is likely to affect the Run and RunOnce registry sub-keys. So once the malicious values are added, ransomware files can execute automatically on each system start. This is due to the set of actions managed by these two registry sub-keys. They are created to store information about all files and objects that are executed on each system start. Thus, the persistence ransomware acquires may lead to some difficulties during the removal process. You can overcome them by following all the steps of the guide below.
At the very end .koreaGame files virus is likely to display a ransom note on the PC screen. The message is supposedly written in Korean and what it aims is to blackmail victims into contacting hackers at a given email address powerhacker03@hotmail.com. Under no circumstances, you should do this or pay them the ransom. Furthermore, a free decryption solution that will help you to restore .koreaGame data is available and you can find in this guide.
.koreaGame Files Virus – Data Encryption Process
The good news is that thanks to the efforts made by the security researcher Michael Gillespie a free decrypter is available. So all victims of attacked by Jigsaw ransomware variants are able to download it and restore corrupted files. By following the guide below you will find a download link and instructions how to restore .koreaGame files.
Similar to other Jigsaw iterations like Admin@adsoleware.com Virus, .Game File Virus and .CryptWalker File Virus, the .koreaGame crypto virus is likely to encrypt files that are of the following types:
→.3dm, .3g2, .3gp, .7zip, .aaf, .accdb, .aep, .aepx, .aet, .ai, .aif, .as, .as.txt, .as3, .asf, .asp, .asx, .avi, .bmp, .c, .class, .cpp, .cs, .csv, .dat, .db, .dbf, .doc, .docb, .docm, .docx, .dot, .dotm, .dotx, .dwg, .dxf, .dxf.c, .efx, .eps, .fla, .flv, .gif, .h, .idml, .iff, .indb, .indd, .indl, .indt, .inx, .jar, .java, .jpeg, .jpg, .js, .m3u, .m3u8, .m4u, .max, .mdb, .mid, .mkv, .mov, .mp3, .mp4, .mpa, .mpeg, .mpg, .msg, .pdb, .pdf, .php, .plb, .pmd, .png, .pot, .potm, .potx, .ppam, .ppj, .pps, .ppsm, .ppsx, .ppt, .pptm, .pptx, .prel, .prproj, .ps, .psd, .py, .ra, .rar, .raw, .rb, .rtf, .sdf, .ses, .sldm, .sldx, .sql, .svg, .swf, .tif, .txt, .vcf, .vob, .wav, .wma, .wmv, .wpd, .wps, .xla, .xlam, .xll, .xlm, .xls, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xlt, .xltm, .xltx, .xlw, .xml, .xqx, .zip
After, encryption all corrupted files are left out of order so you cannot open them and view the information they store. They can be recognized by the specific string of extensions appended at the end of their original names:
→.email-[powerhacker03@hotmail.com].koreaGame
Remove Ransomware and Restore .koreaGame Files
The step-by-step removal guide below provides both manual and automatic approaches. Beware that the removal of .koreaGame files virus is not an easy task. It is a severe threat that plagues the whole system. Security researchers recommend the help of advanced anti-malware tool for maximum efficiency.
After you fulfill the removal process make sure to check the “Restore Files” step available in our guide below. But before that be advised to back up all encrypted files to an external drive and prevent their irreversible loss.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .koreaGame with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .koreaGame 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .koreaGame 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 .koreaGame there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
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 .koreaGame
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .koreaGame.
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 .koreaGame 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.
.koreaGame-FAQ
What is .koreaGame Ransomware?
.koreaGame 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 .koreaGame 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 .koreaGame Infect?
Via several ways..koreaGame 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 .koreaGame 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 ..koreaGame files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..koreaGame 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 ..koreaGame files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..koreaGame" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..koreaGame 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 .koreaGame 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 .koreaGame ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..koreaGame 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 .koreaGame 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 .koreaGame Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .koreaGame 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 .koreaGame 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.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.