Our article provides an overview of .KOK08 files virus as well as a detailed guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove this nasty virus.
The so-called .KOK08 files virus invades computer systems with the purpose to corrupt system settings and so it can then encrypts valuable files with the help of two strong cipher algorithms. These consequences, in turn, enable hackers to blackmail victims into paying a ransom for a unique decryption key. The extortion happens with the help of a ransom note file called #KOK08_README#.rtf.
Threat Summary
| Name | KOK08 |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that encodes target files stored on the infected computer and then demands a ransom for a decryption key posessed by hackers. |
| Symptoms | The access to valuable files is restricted. They are all renamed with a string of extensions that ends with the .KOK08 extension. Hackers demand a ransom payment. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss KOK08. |
| 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. |
.KOK08 Files Virus – Distribution
How the infection code of .KOK08 files virus could be spread is via malspam e-mail campaigns. There are some common traits of e-mails that are used for malicious purposes and they are:
- A presented link that lands on web page compromised by hackers. Such page could be set to download and execute the ransomware payload directly on the computer of each user who got tricked into visiting it.
- A file attachment of familiar file type such as document (.doc, .PDF, .docx, .xlsx, etc.) archive (.rar, .zip, .7z, etc.) or other. Corrupted files could be masked as legitimate ones in order to trick you into running them on your device and this way unintentionally enable the ransomware to infect your data.
Along with this spread technique, other methods like malicious exploit kits, fake notifications for software updates and infected third-party app installers may be also used to scam you to allow the infection to plague your computer system.
.KOK08 Files Virus – Overview
The so-called .KOK08 files virus has been identified as a strain of Matrix ransomware family. An infection with .KOK08 files virus begins with the execution of its payload on a target system. The moment this event occurs, the ransomware becomes able to initiate a sequence of malicious actions that support its attack.
Once the ransomware establishes all needed malicious files on the system which it does by creating or dropping them from its command and control server, it starts to consequently execute them until it reaches the data encryption stage.
The purpose of its associated files is the contamination of major system components and their settings. In addition, some of them could be set to manipulate legitimate system processes and prevent active security measures from detecting the ransomware presence.
In case of infection with .KOK08 files virus it is likely that specific registry sub-keys will also be plagued by malicious entries. These keys could be Run and RunOnce as they could automatically execute ransomware files on each system start.
Following encryption, the ransomware drops the file #KOK08_README#.rtf on the device to inform victims about its presence and blackmail them into paying certain ransom to hackers. At this point, it is only known that the contact email provided by cybercriminals is KOK08@protonmail.com. As of the ransom they demand it should be in Bitcoin.
.KOK08 Files Virus – Encryption Process
Being a strain of Martix, .KOK08 ransomware could be set to use a combination of two or more sophisticated cipher algorithms to corrupt target files. And like its predecessors .KOK08 ransomware could scan predefined system drives for all of the below mentioned types of files in order to encode parts of their original code:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
After this process, data stored by corrupted files is inaccessible. Your access to restricted files is only possible after the recovery of encrypted files. How you could recognize corrupted files is by the distinctive sequence of extensions appended to their original names.
As identified after a thorough analysis conducted by the security researcher Michael Gillespie, this version of Matrix ransomware uses three extensions to mark corrupted data. The sequence begins with the contact email provided by hackers .[KOK08@protonmail.com] and ends with the specific .KOK08. Actually, the threat is named after one of its associated malicious extensions.
As of the unique decryption key, it is transferred to hackers controlled server immediately after the encryption process. This enables them to blackmail you into paying a demanded ransom. However, you should avoid doing this as such an action does not guarantee the recovery of your encrypted files.
Remove .KOK08 Files Virus and Restore Data
The ransomware associated with .KOK08 extension is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So you should properly clean and secure your infected system before you could use it again. Below you could find a step-by-step removal guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove this ransomware. Choose the manual removal approach if you have previous experience with malware files. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps select the automatic section from the guide. Steps there enable you to check the infected system for ransomware files and remove them with a few mouse clicks.
In order to keep your system safe from ransomware and other types of malware in future, you should consider the installation of a reliable anti-malware program. As an additional security layer that could prevent the occurrence of ransomware attacks you could install an [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/the-most-popular-free-anti-ransomware-tools/”]anti-ransomware tool.
If you want to understand how to potentially fix encrypted files with the help of alternative data recovery approaches, make sure to read carefully all details mentioned in the step “Restore files”. We remind you that before you begin with the data recovery process, you should back up all encrypted files to an external drive as this will help you to 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.
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Step 1: Scan for KOK08 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall KOK08 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 KOK08 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 KOK08 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 KOK08
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by KOK08.
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 KOK08 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.
KOK08-FAQ
What is KOK08 Ransomware?
KOK08 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 KOK08 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 KOK08 Infect?
Via several ways.KOK08 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 KOK08 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 .KOK08 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .KOK08 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 .KOK08 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".KOK08" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .KOK08 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 KOK08 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 KOK08 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .KOK08 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 KOK08 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 KOK08 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this KOK08 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 KOK08 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.
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