Grovat Ransomware

The Grovat Ransomware is a file cryptor Trojan that was discovered on April 4th, 2019. Computer security analysts warn that the Grovat Ransomware is based on the infamous STOP Ransomware that has remained very active since its first release. Unlike RaaS-produced (Ransomware-as-a-Service) malware, the Grovat Ransomware exhibits notable improvements and changes to the encryption routine. Also, the Grovat Ransomware features more sophisticated obfuscation layers that may allow it to bypass some ransomware defenses. The Grovat Ransomware is known to be dropped on machines using macro-enabled documents and encrypted shells to minimize the risk of infection. PC users are advised to avoid spam emails and questionable promotions involving macro-enabled Microsoft word files. The Grovat Ransomware is designed to encipher content on the local disks, but it does not appear to affect the installed programs. Modified files are recognized by the attached '.grovat' extension. For example, 'Laguna Vilama.jpeg' is renamed to 'Laguna Vilama.jpeg.grovat,' and a ransom message is dropped to the desktop. The Trojan is reported of writing '_readme.txt' to the desktop that reads:

'ATTENTION!
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:
https://we.tl/t-1LFQOfI0Se
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" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.

Your personal ID:
[random characters]'

The email addresses listed above may not be those shown on your screen since the cybercriminals switch accounts often. However, the Grovat Ransomware is likely to keep using the '.grovat' extension for a while at least until a new variant is produced. PC users are encouraged to ignore the messages from 'merosa@india.com,' 'merosa@firemail.cc' and related email accounts. You should take steps to boot data backups, check your email storage and take advantage of cloud services if you want to restore as much data as possible. Paying money to the Grovat Ransomware is impudent, and you might be tricked. The Grovat Ransomware is recognized by most AV companies and should be removed with a reliable instrument.