Qarj – General Info
Qarj is a malicious software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular malware researcher, very first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Qarj was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as quickly as the encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are not able to get access to them. Qarj virus adds its own “.qarj” to all the encrypted files. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Qarj, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.qarj”. When the file encryption is accomplished, Qarj puts its own distinct text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The message stated by text file requesting for the random os extremely similar to the notices offered by other ransomware threats coming from the DJVU family. The caution essentially indicates that the data has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is definitely real.
The approach to encrypt the files used by Qarj is not entirely investigated. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be issued a special decryption key, which is absolutely special. It is incredibly tough to recover the information without the suitable key in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Qarj ransomware 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 criminals who have actually introduced the Qarj virus into the web. In order to obtain the key and restore the important information, the users are informed to contact the frauds through e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise states that individuals should get in touch with the Qarj authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data file encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so individuals will acquire a 50% discount rate, therefore, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Qarj encrypted your data, however, it might not be the only danger on your computer. Plus, the ransomware may be concealed deep in the system. To spot and delete the hazard entirely, we suggest you to refer to the aid of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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 recommend that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online criminals will keep their guarantees, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom typically does not result in an effective recovery. So, the users may just lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Similarly, we prompt you not to call the scams as they instruct. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might split the Qarj ransomware or bring back the data at no charge. Therefore, the only appropriate choice is to restore the data from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Qarj Ransomware |
| File Extension | qarj |
| 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 .qarj extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Qarj Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Qarj Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections similar to the Qarj virus. For example, this particular hazard is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging energies have actually been developed in order to secure the crucial information and express the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to generate the particular key for successful information decryption.
Unless the Qarj ransomware is still under the development procedure or has got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to restore the information by hand. Therefore, the only working option to prevent the loss of your crucial information is to frequently maintain updated backups of all your essential data.
Another essential piece of recommendations is to store the backups on unique storage not linked to your primary PC. For instance, you may 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 system drive is extremely risky, since the backup might likewise be secured by the Qarj .
Leakages for the Qarj ransomware attack.
Qarj uses many paths to infiltrate the vulnerable computers. It is not specific what particular method was used in your case, nevertheless, the intrusion might happen by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily free apps;
- spam emails from the unknown senders;
- sites providing free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Qarj ransomware may disguise itself as some real application, for example, through the deceptive notifies demanding installation of some software update. This is the most common technique used by the frauds to inject the Qarj virus files into the system. By doing this users partly take part in its installation, without plainly comprehending the risk.
Furthermore, the frauds might send unsolicited spam email with tricky informs encouraging individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for instance, those motivating individuals to open specific images, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the harmful links may basically harm the system. Fake Acrobat Reader upgrade alerts may cause the Qarj ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the cracked software application may in addition consist of the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Qarj may take place through some Trojan horses that may be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct approval or perhaps permission.
Avoiding the Qarj ransom virus injection.
Naturally, there is no outright warranty that your computer will be constantly devoid of any malware attacks, however, we want to share some useful ideas with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay really attention while browsing the web and particularly while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email attachments, particularly if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise include some other additional apps in the bundle. These extra applications may be very damaging. It is of utmost importance to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in general to be constantly correctly upgraded.
It is rather sensible that downloading pirated apps is unlawful, nevertheless, furthermore, such unauthorized programs use might likewise bring severe damage to your system. Hence, do not download any split programs. Plus, the fact that your existing anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Qarj ransomware is a great factor for you to reevaluate your options and switch to another program that can render the securing functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Qarj 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 “.qarj” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Qarj 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 qarj files
You can download 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)
