What are .codnat files? What is STOP ransomware? How to remove .codnat files virus and try to recover your data?
STOP ransomware has arrived in a brand new variant, carrying the .codnat file extension. The virus’s main goal Is to encrypt the files on the compromised computers and then ask victims to pay ransom to get the files recovered back to normal. The ransomware may also leave behind a ransom note, containing instructions on how to pay the ransom. If your computer has been infected by the .codnat STOP ransomware, we strongly recommend that you read this article fully.
Threat Summary
| Name | .codnat STOP Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Files are encrypted and the victims cannot open them unless they pay ransom. |
| Symptoms | Files have the .codnat file extension added to them. A ransom note _readme.txt file is also dropped. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .codnat STOP Ransomware. |
| 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. |
.codnat Files Virus – Update May 2019
The good news for all victims of STOP .codnat ransomware is that the security researcher Michael Gillespie cracked the code of this variant and released an updated version of his STOP ransomware decrypter.
So the moment you remove all malicious files and objects from your infected system you can enter our data recovery guide where you will find a download link for the free .codnat decryption tool and learn how to proceed with the decryption process.
Have in mind that the tool is designed to support specific offline IDs, so it may not be effective for all occasions of .codnat ransomware infections.
.codnat Ransomware – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
The primary way of distribution of the .codnat ransomware virus is usually done via several different methods. The main one of those methods is to get victims to open a malicious file that is usually sent to them as an e-mail attachment. Usually, such files tend to replicate by pretending to be important documents, like invoices, images and many other forms of seemingly legitimate documents.
Not only this, but also the .codnat Ransomware may infect you via compromised sites, where the ransomware infection file, could be uploaded as a setup, crack, portable program or other form of software.
Either way, once you run the infection files of this virus, your computer could immediately become compromised and the .codant variant of STOP ransomware may have it’s virus files dropped. The files of the .codnat ransomware may be in the following directories:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Temp%
Among the dropped files could also be a file, called the ransom note. The file is named _readme.exe and has the following contents:
Don’t worry my friend, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
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Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
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When .codnat ransomware begins to encrypt files, the virus may attack the following file types:
- Videos.
- Documents.
- Images.
- Archives.
- Audio files.
- Files, used by other software on your computer.
Once the files are encrypted, the .codnat extension is appended after their original one and they begin to appear like the following:
In addition to this, the .codnat ransomware also performs a lot of malicious activities during this process as well:
- Checks if it’s running on a real or a virtual OS.
- Tampers with the Windows Registry Editor.
- Obtains your network and system information.
- May create scheduled tasks.
The main goal of the .codnat variant of STOP ransomware is to encrypt your files and ask you to pay ransom. It is not advisable to pay this ransom, because for one you cannot trust the cyber-criminals who are behind this variant of STOP and more so, by paying you support their cyber-criminal activities. Instead, it is recommended that you backup the encrypted files and then remove this STOP variant.
Remove STOP Ransomware and Try to Restore .codnat Files
In order to make sure that the .codnat version of STOP ransomware is gone from your computer, we would strongly recommend that you follow the removal steps below. If the first two manual removal steps may not work for you, experts recommend taking a more automatic approach. According to them, the most effective and safest method to remove the .codnat ransomware is to download and run a scan of your computer, by using an advanced anti-malware software. Such software aims to detect and remove all files, related to .codnat ransomware and protect your computer in the future too.
If you want to try and restore files, the first thing you should do is back them up. Save them on a flash drive or somewhere else. Then, we suggest that you keep them until a free decryptor for this variant of STOP ransomware is available. Until then, you could try using the alternative file recovery instructions below in the “Try to restore” step. They may not be a 100% guarantee for file recovery, but with their help, you could retrieve at least some of your files.
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 .codnat STOP Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .codnat STOP 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP Ransomware 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 .codnat STOP Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP 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.
.codnat STOP Ransomware-FAQ
What is .codnat STOP Ransomware Ransomware?
.codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP 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 ..codnat STOP Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..codnat STOP 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 ..codnat STOP Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..codnat STOP Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .codnat STOP 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 .codnat STOP 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.
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.
I can’t do it
After my laptop got that virus
I immediately reinstall my windows
Thenfore my data keep can’t open
I had used all antivirus ransomware
And i had do like your instructions
But i can’t find the codnat virus
Please help me