Gaqq Virus – Details
Gaqq is a harmful software application functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular virus researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Gaqq was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as soon as the file encryption is successfully achieved, the users are unable to get access to them. Gaqq ransomware adds its own “.gaqq” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as crypted by Gaqq, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.gaqq”. Once the encryption is achieved, Gaqq puts its own distinct text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert stated by text file requesting the random os very comparable to the alerts offered by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The caution essentially indicates that the data has been encrypted and the only service to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is definitely real.
The method to secure the files used by Gaqq is not entirely looked into. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be issued a special decryption key, which is definitely special. It is incredibly difficult to recover the data without the suitable type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Gaqq ransomware is that the users are not able 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 launched the Gaqq infection into the internet. In order to acquire the key and bring back the essential data, the users are informed to connect with the scams via email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message also says that the people should get in touch with the Gaqq authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount rate, therefore, the ransom quantity falls to $490.
Gaqq crypted your data, however, it might not be the only risk on your computer. Plus, the ransomware might be concealed deep in the system. To spot and delete the hazard completely, we recommend you to describe the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware app.
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee 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 gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom typically does not lead to a successful healing. So, the users may merely lose their money for nothing.
Likewise, we urge you not to contact the frauds as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might split the Gaqq virus or bring back the information at no charge. For that reason, the only right decision is to restore the information from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Gaqq Ransomware |
| File Extension | gaqq |
| 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 .gaqq extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Gaqq Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Gaqq Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now full of infections comparable to the Gaqq ransomware. For instance, this specific risk is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive utilities have actually been developed in order to encrypt the important information and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the identical algorithm to generate the specific key for successful files decryption.
Unless the Gaqq ransomware is still under the development process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information manually. Hence, the only working solution to prevent the loss of your essential data is to frequently keep up-to-date backups of all your crucial files.
Another crucial piece of recommendations is to save the backups on special storage not connected to your primary computer. 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 routine drive is very dangerous, since the backup might likewise be secured by the Gaqq ransomware.
Leaks for the Gaqq ransomware attack.
Gaqq uses many courses to infiltrate the vulnerable computers. It is not certain what specific method was used in your case, however, the intrusion may occur via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly free apps;
- spam emails from the unknown senders;
- sites offering free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Gaqq virus might disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the deceptive alerts requiring setup of some software application update. This is the most common technique utilized by the frauds to inject the Gaqq ransomware files into the system. By doing this users partially take part in its installation, without plainly comprehending the threat.
Additionally, the frauds might send out unsolicited spam email with challenging notifies encouraging individuals to open suspicious attachments or click some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open specific pictures, text files, tax files and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the malicious links might essentially damage the system. Fake Media Player upgrade notices may lead to the Gaqq ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the cracked software might additionally contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Gaqq may occur through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent or perhaps permission.
Avoiding the Gaqq ransom virus attack.
Naturally, there is no absolute warranty that your computer will be always without any malware attacks, however, we wish to share some helpful ideas with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay really attention while searching the web and especially while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail accessories, specifically if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer may likewise consist of some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications might be very damaging. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your os in general to be constantly correctly updated.
It is quite sensible that downloading pirated apps is unlawful, however, additionally, such unapproved software 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 Gaqq ransomware is a great factor for you to reevaluate your choices and switch to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Gaqq 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 “.gaqq” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Gaqq ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can download 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 gaqq 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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