Coban ransomware is a new data locker malware that aims to corrupt sensitive data and extort ransom from the victims. Coban ransomware uses strong cipher algorithm to encode target files and make them completely inaccessible. Encrypted files can be recognized by the .coban extension appended at the end of their names. Then it displays a ransom note on the screen of the infected PC to inform victims about the attack and instruct them what they are expected to do in order to receive files back.
This article informs victims of Coban ransomware infection and provides comprehensive removal and data restore instructions.
Threat Summary
| Name | Coban |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts the files on your computer, making them no longer openable. Asks for a ransom payment in Bitcoins. |
| Symptoms | Adds the .coban file extension to the encrypted files and changes their names to random names. Drops a ransom note, named _HELP_INSTRUCTION.txt. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Coban. |
| 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. |
Coban Ransomware – Spread Techniques
Coban ransomware payloads can be spread via various distribution techniques. The most preferred one by cyber criminals is email messages with malicious attachments or infected elements like buttons and links placed in the email message body. Usually, the email messages are well crafted so they can easily trick users into infecting their computer systems with Coban ransomware. In most cases, the sender’s name and email address of the malicious emails are disguised as representatives of well-known business organizations, legal services, and even governmental institutions. And once the payload penetrates the system, it automatically triggers Coban ransomware infection.
In some cases, the ransomware may appear as fake software update notification that urges users to download a critical security patch. Additionally, the code of the malicious Coban crypto virus payload may be injected into web pages that are set to automatically start the download of the ransomware code on the PC. The links of these web pages may be included in malvertising campaigns or spread on social media channels.
Coban Ransomware – Infection Flow
The investigation of Coban ransomware samples is ongoing. Some security researchers believe that it can belong to the infamous CryptoMix ransomware family. This year our team detected and reported two other CryptoMix ransomware variants that are appending the .OGONIA and .EXTE extensions to the corrupted files.
The samples of Coban file locker affirm that it follows a typical ransomware pattern. The infection is triggered once a file named cc9b1e6806db5fb9628559162c3ebb62.virus is running on the system. Then Coban ransomware can connect with hackers’ controlled server and download all additional malware files it needs to complete the infection. Often the malicious files are situated in some of the following essential Windows system folders:
- %AppData%
- %Temp%
- %Roaming%
- %Common%
- %System32%
Coban ransomware processes may be disguised as legitimate Windows system processes like – svchost.exe and services.exe making its detection even harder. After the threat establishes all malicious files on the system, it is capable of modifying Windows registry values in order to ensure its automatic execution on each Windows boot up. The following registry keys may be plagued by Coban ransomware:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
At the end of the infection, Coban crypto virus drops its ransom note called _HELP_INSTRUCTION.txt on the computer. Then it displays it on the screen and informs the following:
All your files are already encrypted due to a vulnerability in the system!
For decoding it is necessary to pay ransom by bitcoins.
Bitcoins can be bought here – localbitcoins.com in many ways.
Write to us at mail ms.decry@aol.com and tell us your unique ID in the subject line. DECRYPT-ID-ea003afd-e55a-490a-bf5f-2e2f0db4e97b number
It is not known what is the amount of the demanded ransom, however, any negotiations with the crooks should be refrained so new troubles could be avoided.
Coban Ransomware – Data Encryption
Coban ransomware is believed to have the following file types in its target data list:
→.sql, .mp4, .7z, .rar, .m4a, .wma, .avi, .wmv, .csv, .d3dbsp, .zip, .sie, .sum, .ibank, .t13, .t12, .qdf, .gdb, .tax, .pkpass, .bc6, .bc7, .bkp, .qic, .bkf, .sidn, .sidd, .mddata, .itl, .itdb, .icxs, .hvpl, .hplg, .hkdb, .mdbackup, .syncdb, .gho, .cas, .svg, .map, .wmo, .itm, .sb, .fos, .mov, .vdf, .ztmp, .sis, .sid, .ncf, .menu, .layout, .dmp, .blob, .esm, .vcf, .vtf, .dazip, .fpk, .mlx, .kf, .iwd, .vpk, .tor, .psk, .rim, .w3x, .fsh, .ntl, .arch00, .lvl, .snx, .cfr, .ff, .vpp_pc, .lrf, .m2, .mcmeta, .vfs0, .mpqge, .kdb, .db0, .dba, .rofl, .hkx, .bar, .upk, .das, .iwi, .litemod, .asset, .forge, .ltx, .bsa, .apk, .re4, .sav, .lbf, .slm, .bik, .epk, .rgss3a, .pak, .big, wallet, .wotreplay, .xxx, .desc, .py, .m3u, .flv, .js, .css, .rb, .png, .jpeg, .txt, .p7c, .p7b, .p12, .pfx, .pem, .crt, .cer, .der, .x3f, .srw, .pef, .ptx, .r3d, .rw2, .rwl, .raw, .raf, .orf, .nrw, .mrwref, .mef, .erf, .kdc, .dcr, .cr2, .crw, .bay, .sr2, .srf, .arw, .3fr, .dng, .jpe, .jpg, .cdr, .indd, .ai, .eps, .pdf, .pdd, .psd, .dbf, .mdf, .wb2, .rtf, .wpd, .dxg, .xf, .dwg, .pst, .accdb, .mdb, .pptm, .pptx, .ppt, .xlk, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xls, .wps, .docm, .docx, .doc, .odb, .odc, .odm, .odp, .ods, .odt.
The list includes all file types that are frequently used by users to store important and valuable information. Each time the virus finds a target file, it encrypts it by utilizing strong cipher algorithm which makes the file no longer to be opened. Also, it renames the original names of the corrupted files and appends the extension .coban at the end.
Remove Coban Ransomware – Restore .coban Files
To sum up, Coban ransomware is a devastating infection that should be removed as soon as it is detected on the PC. Only after the complete Coban ransomware removal from the system, you can use it normally again. Otherwise, the ransomware will start its malicious files each time you start the PC, encrypt all your new files which are part of its target list and interrupt the regular system performance. The removal process of Coban ransomware can be done either manually or automatically. Both methods are presented in the step-by-step Coban ransomware removal guide below. Security researchers recommend the help of advanced anti-malware tool for maximum efficiency.
After the removal of Coban be advised to back up all encrypted files to an external drive and then proceed with the .coban files restore process which is also presented in the instructions below.
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 Coban with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Coban 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 Coban 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 Coban 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 Coban
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Coban.
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 Coban 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.
Coban-FAQ
What is Coban Ransomware?
Coban 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 Coban 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 Coban Infect?
Via several ways.Coban 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 Coban 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 .Coban files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Coban 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 .Coban files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Coban" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Coban 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 Coban 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 Coban ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Coban 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 Coban 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 Coban Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Coban 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 Coban 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.