Coza – Ransomware
Coza is a harmful software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known malware researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Coza was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as soon as the encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are unable to get access to them. Coza ransomware adds its own “.coza” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Coza, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.coza”. As soon as the encryption is achieved, Coza puts its own unique text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The message specified by text file requesting for the random os extremely comparable to the notifications given by other ransomware risks coming from the DJVU family. The warning generally shows that the files have been encrypted and the only service to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.
The method to encrypt the files utilized by Coza is not totally researched. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be released an unique decryption key, which is absolutely distinct. It is exceptionally hard to recuperate the information without the suitable type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Coza infection is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the complete control by the scoundrels who have actually released the Coza virus into the world wide web. In order to get the key and restore the important information, the users are told to get in touch with the frauds via email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message also states that the people ought to get in touch with the Coza authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so the people will obtain a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Coza encrypted your data, nevertheless, it may not be the only hazard on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To detect and delete the threat entirely, we advise you to refer to the assistance of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we strongly recommend that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online scoundrels will keep their pledges, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is received into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom frequently does not lead to a successful healing. So, the users may just lose their money for nothing.
Likewise, we prompt you not to call the scams as they instruct. Do not transfer loan into their wallets. There are no applications that could split the Coza virus or bring back the information for free. Therefore, the only correct choice is to restore the information from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Coza Ransomware |
| File Extension | coza |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Family | DJVU |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts all the data stored on your system and requires a ransom to be paid on your part supposedly to recover your important files. |
| Symptoms | File encryption by the ransomware is performed by means of the AES-256 algorithm (CFB mode) encryption algorithm. Once the encryption is completed, the ransomware adds its special .coza extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Coza Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Coza Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections comparable to the Coza ransomware. For example, this particular threat is generally similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive energies have actually been established in order to secure the essential data and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to produce the specific key for effective files decryption.
Unless the Coza ransomware is still under the development process or has actually got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information manually. Therefore, the only working service to prevent the loss of your crucial data is to routinely maintain updated backups of all your crucial files.
Another essential piece of advice is to store the backups on special storage not linked to your main device. For example, you might save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your routine drive is really risky, considering that the backup might also be encrypted by the Coza ransomware.
Leakages for the Coza ransomware attack.
Coza uses many courses to infiltrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not particular what specific technique was used in your case, however, the intrusion might happen by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, generally freeware;
- spam emails from the unidentified senders;
- websites offering free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Coza virus may camouflage itself as some genuine application, for example, through the deceptive signals requiring installation of some software update. This is the most typical trick used by the frauds to inject the Coza infection files into the system. This way users partly participate in its setup, without clearly comprehending the risk.
Additionally, the frauds might send unsolicited spam email with difficult signals motivating the people to open suspicious accessories or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open particular images, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the harmful links may basically damage the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player upgrade notifications may cause the Coza ransomware seepage. Similarly, downloading the broken software may additionally contain the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Coza might occur through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct approval and even permission.
Avoiding the Coza ransom virus attack.
Obviously, there is no outright guarantee that your computer will be constantly free of any malware attacks, however, we would like to share some beneficial tips with you to make it safer. Make sure to pay extremely very close attention while browsing the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, specifically if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise consist of some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications may be very damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software and your os in general to be always correctly upgraded.
It is rather sensible that downloading cracked software is unlawful, nevertheless, in addition, such unapproved apps usage might likewise bring severe damage to your computer. For this reason, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the reality that your current anti-virus did not secure the system from the Coza ransomware is a great reason for you to reassess your choices and switch to another program that can render the protecting functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Coza text file:
ATTENTION! Don't worry, 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: https://we.tl/t-2P5WrE5b9f 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: restorealldata@firemail.cc Reserve e-mail address to contact us: gorentos@bitmessage.ch Our Telegram account: @datarestore
Screenshot of files with “.coza” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Coza ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can get GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:
2. Double-click on the setup file.
When setup file has finished downloading, double-click on the setup-antimalware-ag.exe file to install GridinSoft Anti-Malware on your computer.
An User Account Control asking you about to allow GridinSoft Anti-Malware to make changes to your device. So, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.
3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.
4. Wait for the GridinSoft Anti-Malware scan to complete.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically start scanning your computer for Win Speedup 2018 and other malicious programs. This process can take a 20-30 minutes, so we suggest you periodically check on the status of the scan process.
5. Click on “Clean Now”.
When the scan has completed, you will see the list of infections that GridinSoft Anti-Malware has detected. To remove them click on the “Clean Now” button in right corner.
Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore coza files
You can get Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:
- Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
- Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
- By default, the decryptor will pre-populate the locations to decrypt with the currently connected drives and network drives. Additional locations can be added using the Add” button.
- Decryptors typically offer various options depending on the particular malware family. The available options are located in the Options tab and can be enabled or disabled there. You can find a detailed list of the available Options below.
- After you have added all the locations you want to decrypt to the list, click the “Decrypt” button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files
- The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your personal records, you can save it by clicking the “Save log” button. You can also copy it straight to your clipboard to paste it into emails or forum posts if you are asked to.
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