Palq – Ransomware
Palq is a destructive software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular malware researcher, very first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Palq was created 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. Palq ransomware includes its own “.palq” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Palq, will be titled as “price_list.xls.palq”. As soon as the file encryption is achieved, Palq puts its own special text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.
The message specified by _readme.txt requesting the random os extremely similar to the notifications given by other ransomware dangers belonging to the DJVU family. The warning essentially indicates that the information has been encrypted and the only service to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is absolutely real.
The method to secure the files used by Palq is not completely looked into. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be provided an unique decryption key, which is definitely special. It is extremely difficult to recuperate the data without the suitable type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Palq infection is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the complete control by the criminals who have actually released the Palq ransomware into the world wide web. In order to obtain the key and restore the crucial data, the users are told to connect with the scams through e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise states that individuals need to get in touch with the Palq authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the data encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so the people will acquire a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Palq encrypted your information, however, it may not be the only risk on your PC. Plus, the ransomware might be concealed deep in the system. To find and erase the threat totally, we advise you to refer to the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware app.
Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Review, How to get free trial?, EULA, and Privacy Policy.
No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly encourage that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online scoundrels will keep their guarantees, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is received into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom frequently does not result in a successful recovery. So, the users may just lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Similarly, we advise you not to contact the scams as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might crack the Palq virus or bring back the data for free. Therefore, the only correct choice is to bring back the data from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Palq Ransomware |
| File Extension | palq |
| 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 .palq extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Palq Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Palq Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now filled with infections similar to the Palq virus. For example, this particular hazard is generally identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have actually been developed in order to encrypt the important data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to create the particular key for effective data decryption.
Unless the Palq ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information manually. Therefore, the only working solution to avoid the loss of your essential information is to regularly keep current backups of all your essential documents.
Another crucial piece of recommendations is to store the backups on special storage not linked to your main PC. For instance, you might store it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your routine drive is very dangerous, because the backup may likewise be secured by the Palq virus.
Leakages for the Palq ransomware attack.
Palq uses lots of courses to infiltrate the vulnerable computers. It is not particular what specific technique was used in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might take place by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily freeware;
- spam emails from the unidentified senders;
- sites providing complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Palq might disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the misleading notifies demanding setup of some software application update. This is the most common trick utilized by the scams to inject the Palq virus files into the system. This way users partly participate in its installation, without plainly understanding the threat.
Furthermore, the frauds might send out unsolicited spam email with challenging informs encouraging individuals to open dubious attachments or click on some download links, for instance, those motivating individuals to open certain pictures, text files, tax files and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the harmful links may basically harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update notices may lead to the Palq ransomware seepage. Similarly, downloading the split software application might in addition include the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Palq may take place through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization or perhaps authorization.
Avoiding the Palq injection.
Naturally, there is no outright guarantee that your computer system will be constantly free of any malware attacks, however, we would like to share some beneficial tips with you to make it safer. Make certain to pay really attention while browsing the web and especially while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email accessories, especially if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that particular freeware installer may also include some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications might be really damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software and your os in basic to be always appropriately upgraded.
It is quite rational that downloading cracked software is unlawful, nevertheless, additionally, such unapproved software application usage may likewise bring serious damage to your system. For this reason, do not download any split programs. Plus, the truth that your present anti-virus did not protect the system from the Palq ransomware is an excellent reason for you to reconsider 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 Palq 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 “.palq” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Palq 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 palq 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.
User Review
( votes)
