What Is Loov Virus?
Loov virus is the name of a ransomware infection that belongs to the DJVU/STOP family of viruses. This infection aims to get in your computer and encrypt your files to extort you into paying a ransom that is hundreds of dollars worth in order to get the files to work again. The main way this works is it drops a so-called ransom note that contains an extortion message, called _readme.txt. It demands from victims to contact the cyber criminals who are behind this threat and then they will receive instructions on how to buy and pay the ransom in the cryptocurrency Bitcoin.
Read this article to learn more about Loov virus and how you can remove it and try to get your files to work again.
Loov Virus Summary
| Name | Loov virus virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB – more detections of this virus on VirusTotal |
| File Extension | |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The Loov virus Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .Loov virus extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Loov Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
The Loov virus is a part of a large ransomware family, that includes hundreds of variancts, such as the recently detected Guer, Irjg and Vtua.
There are a couple of ways via which these viruses end up on your computer system and one of them is if it gets sent to you as an email attachment. If this is the case, then the attachment would most likely resemble some type of a legitimate document, for example:
- Invoices.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
- Work-related files.
- Receipts.
Once this attachment is download it and ran on your computer system, it may trigger an infection process similar to what is described below:
Another possible method via which you could have also gotten infected by the Loov virus virus is if you have downloaded the file yourself, while looking for some type of an executable program for free download from a shady website. If so, then the file will most likely resemble the following types of executables:
- Self extracting archives or regular archives.
- Fake installation files.
- Software patches.
- Cracked portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
- Key generator (or Keygen).
Loov Virus – What Does It Do?
Loov virus my first trigger some infection activities when it’s opened and activated. These includes connecting to the server of the hackers behind it to download it’s payload files and situate them likely in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %System%
- %system32%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
Among the files that are dropped on your computer is also one particular file that is meant to be discovered and this is the ransom note of the virus. It is called _readme.txt and has the following contents:
This virus also aims to modify the windows registry editor, most likely attacking the following
registry sub-keys:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Inserting value entries in these sub-keys may result in some files that the virus has set on your computer to automatically run each time you start windows.
What Are .loov Files
The .loov files are encrypted data by this virus and the only way to recover them is to decrypt them.
Loov virus may use a very particular encryption mode, also known as AES encryption algorithm. This encryption changes the structure data of the victim files and generates a decryption key, there is two types – online and offline. If the key is off-line, then it should be easy to decrypt the files after researchers crack the virus, using decryption software.
When is encrypts your files, the virus may scan for them, based on their file extensions and most often targets the following file kinds:
- Audio file formats (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Pictures (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Video file types (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archives (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Document file kinds (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Other types of often used data.
After the encryption process has completed, the virus may leave the files appearing like the following example shows:
Picture.jpg.loov
Remove Loov virus Virus and Try to Restore Files
To remove Loov virus virus, would suggest that you follow the removal instructions that are created underneath this article. They have been designed to help you use the information you have just learned by reading this article in combination with some steps that can help you delete the virus by yourself. If you want the virus removed in the most effective manner, security professionals strongly recommend that you download and scan your computer with anti-malware software. This tool has been created with the main idea to scan your device thoroughly and get it rid of any viruses completely.
How to Decrypt .loov Files?
To decrypt files, encrypted by the Loov virus, he would suggest that you take a look at our STOP Ransomware File Decryption Guide. It contains more information in detail about the decryption process of this virus. Another way to try to get your files back is to use our video guide below. It contains instructions that are designed to help you use the official free decryption software for this virus, that has been created by independent malware researchers.
Video guide for using the STOP Ransomware Decryptor:
In case your decryption key is online, then we would suggest that you try out the alternative methods to recover your files that are listed in the guide below. They may not be 100% guarantee to recover your files, but they may help you get back at least some of them.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Loov virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Loov virus 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 Loov virus 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 Loov virus 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 Loov virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Loov virus.
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 Loov virus 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.
Loov virus-FAQ
What is Loov virus Ransomware?
Loov virus 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 Loov virus 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 Loov virus Infect?
Via several ways.Loov virus 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 Loov virus 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 .Loov virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Loov virus 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 .Loov virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Loov virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Loov virus 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 Loov virus 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 Loov virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Loov virus 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 Loov virus 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 Loov virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Loov virus 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 Loov virus 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.