Cuag Virus – Details
Cuag is a harmful software application working as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known malware researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Cuag was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as soon as the encryption is successfully accomplished, the users are unable to get access to them. Cuag virus adds its own “.cuag” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, once modified by Cuag, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.cuag”. When the encryption is achieved, Cuag puts its own unique text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The message stated by text file requesting for the random os extremely comparable to the notices given by other ransomware threats coming from the DJVU family. The warning basically shows that the files have been encrypted and the only service to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely real.
The method to secure the files used by Cuag is not completely looked into. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer owner may be issued a special decryption key, which is absolutely distinct. It is very difficult to recuperate the data without the appropriate key in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Cuag 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 launched the Cuag ransomware into the internet. In order to obtain the key and bring back the essential information, the users are informed to connect with the scams by means of e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message likewise states that the people must call the Cuag authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data file encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so individuals will acquire a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom amount drops down to $490.
Cuag modified your files, however, it may not be the only threat on your computer. Plus, the ransomware might be hidden deep in the system. To spot and erase the hazard entirely, we recommend you to describe the assistance of GridinSoft Anti-Malware tool.
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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 crooks will keep their promises, 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 lead to an effective recovery. So, the users may merely lose their money for nothing.
Likewise, we advise you not to contact the scams as they instruct. Do not transfer money into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Cuag ransomware or bring back the information for free. Therefore, the only proper decision is to restore the information from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Cuag Ransomware |
| File Extension | cuag |
| 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 .cuag extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Cuag Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Cuag Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now filled with infections similar to the Cuag virus. For example, this specific hazard is basically similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have actually been established in order to encrypt the essential information and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to create the specific key for effective files decryption.
Unless the Cuag ransomware is still under the development procedure or has got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the data by hand. Thus, the only working service to prevent the loss of your important data is to regularly maintain up-to-date backups of all your vital data.
Another essential piece of advice is to save the backups on special storage not linked to your main computer. For example, you might save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is really dangerous, since the backup might also be encrypted by the Cuag infection.
Leaks for the Cuag ransomware attack.
Cuag uses numerous paths to penetrate the vulnerable computers. It is not certain what particular method was used in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might happen via 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 software.
There are times when the Cuag ransomware might camouflage itself as some real application, for instance, through the misleading alerts demanding setup of some software application update. This is the most typical trick utilized by the frauds to inject the Cuag virus files into the system. In this manner users partly take part in its installation, without clearly comprehending the danger.
Moreover, the scams may send unsolicited spam email with difficult alerts encouraging individuals to open dubious attachments or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open certain images, text files, tax files and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links may essentially damage the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update alerts may cause the Cuag ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the broken software may additionally contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Cuag might happen through some Trojan horses that may be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission and even approval.
Avoiding the Cuag ransom virus attack.
Naturally, there is no outright warranty that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, however, we wish to share some useful pointers with you to make it more secure. Make sure to pay very close attention while browsing the web and specifically while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious email accessories, especially if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might also consist of some other additional apps in the package. These extra applications may be extremely harmful. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software and your os in basic to be constantly effectively updated.
It is quite logical that downloading cracked programs is illegal, however, additionally, such unauthorized software application usage might also bring major damage to your computer. For this reason, do not download any split programs. Plus, the fact that your existing anti-virus did not secure the system from the Cuag ransomware is a good reason for you to reevaluate your options and change to another program that can render the securing functions on a better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Cuag 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 “.cuag” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Cuag 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 cuag 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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