Koolova ransomware decrypts your files for free if you read two security articles

[Porthos]

https://www.neowin.net/news/koolova...es-for-free-if-you-read-two-security-articles

Why is it claiming to be that, you ask? Instead of demanding a large amount of money from victims, it will only ask the victim to read two articles regarding computer security and staying safe on the internet. One of these is Google's "Stay safe while browsing" blog post, while the other is Bleeping Computer's "Jigsaw Ransomware Decrypted: Will delete your files until you pay the Ransom."

If they successfully read the provided material, only then they will be provided the decryption key. Don't take Koolova too lightly, however; if it sees that you are "too lazy" to read the articles, and the provided timer goes down to 0, it will delete all the affected files.

Once the victim has finished the two articles within the provided time, the ransomware will provide the decryption key. This will successfully unlock encrypted files, ultimately freeing the computer from the ransomware attack.

 

[JoeTech]

Expecting people to read something they could care less or know anything about? I see a lot of people's files being deleted and coming to us for help instead.

 

[mraikes]

Just as criminal as requiring money. Deleting files makes them just as bad/evil as the people that require payment in money. Send them to jail when they're identified.

If they really want to polish a turd and pretend it's a diamond, they should automatically decrypt the files no matter what. Maybe a couple hours sooner for people willing to read the articles.

Huh. I could be onto a new marketing ploy - "We've encrypted your files! Decrypt them by clicking through these 17 pop-up advertisements and signing up for 5 email newsletters!"