Erqw Virus – Details
Erqw is a malicious software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Erqw was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as quickly as the file encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are unable to get access to them. Erqw virus adds its own “.erqw” to all the encrypted files. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as modified by Erqw, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.erqw”. When the encryption is accomplished, Erqw puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.
The message mentioned by _readme.txt requesting the random os really similar to the notifications given by other ransomware threats coming from the DJVU family. The caution generally shows that the data has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is definitely true.
The technique to encrypt the files used by Erqw is not totally researched. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be provided a special decryption key, which is absolutely distinct. It is incredibly tough to recover the data without the suitable type in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Erqw virus 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 scoundrels who have actually launched the Erqw virus into the web. In order to get the key and restore the essential data, the users are told to contact the scams via email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message also says that the people need to contact the Erqw authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom quantity falls to $490.
Erqw crypted your information, however, it may not be the only threat on your PC. Plus, the ransomware might be concealed deep in the system. To detect and delete the hazard totally, we recommend you to refer to the assistance of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly encourage that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online criminals will keep their guarantees, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is received into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom typically does not lead to a successful healing. So, the users might merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we urge you not to get in touch with the scams as they instruct. Do not transfer cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might crack the Erqw ransomware or restore the information for free. For that reason, the only appropriate decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Erqw Ransomware |
| File Extension | erqw |
| 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 .erqw extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Erqw Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Erqw Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections similar to the Erqw ransomware. For example, this specific danger is generally similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have been established in order to secure the essential data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to generate the particular key for successful information decryption.
Unless the Erqw ransomware is still under the development procedure or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information manually. Thus, the only working solution to avoid the loss of your crucial data is to routinely maintain current backups of all your vital data.
Another crucial piece of recommendations is to save the backups on unique storage not connected to your primary device. For example, you may store 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 routine drive is extremely dangerous, given that the backup might also be secured by the Erqw ransomware.
Leakages for the Erqw ransomware attack.
Erqw utilizes numerous paths to penetrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not specific what particular approach was used in your case, however, the invasion may happen via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily free software;
- spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
- websites supplying free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Erqw virus may disguise itself as some authentic application, for instance, through the deceptive alerts demanding installation of some software application update. This is the most typical trick used by the frauds to inject the Erqw virus files into the system. This way users partially participate in its installation, without plainly comprehending the threat.
Furthermore, the scams may send unsolicited spam e-mail with challenging informs motivating individuals to open suspicious attachments or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open specific photos, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the harmful links may essentially harm the system. Fake Media Player update notifications may result in the Erqw ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the split software application might additionally include the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Erqw might happen through some Trojan horses that might be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct approval and even approval.
Preventing the Erqw ransomware injection.
Of course, there is no absolute guarantee that your computer system will be constantly free of any malware attacks, however, we want to share some useful suggestions with you to make it more secure. Make sure to pay extremely very close attention while browsing the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, especially if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer may likewise contain some other extra apps in the bundle. These extra applications may be really damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in general to be always correctly upgraded.
It is rather sensible that downloading pirated software is prohibited, however, in addition, such unauthorized programs usage may likewise bring severe damage to your system. Hence, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the truth that your existing anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Erqw ransomware is a great reason for you to reevaluate your options and switch to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Erqw 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 “.erqw” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Erqw 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 erqw 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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