Gatq – Ransomware
Gatq is a malicious software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular malware researcher, very first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Gatq was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as soon as the encryption is effectively achieved, the users are unable to get access to them. Gatq virus includes its own “.gatq” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Gatq, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.gatq”. As soon as the encryption is accomplished, Gatq puts its own distinct text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.
The message specified by document requesting the random os very similar to the notifications offered by other ransomware hazards belonging to the DJVU family. The caution generally shows that the information has been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.
The method to secure the files used by Gatq is not completely looked into. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be issued an unique decryption key, which is absolutely special. It is extremely tough to recuperate the data without the proper key in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Gatq ransomware is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the total control by the scoundrels who have released the Gatq infection into the web. In order to acquire the key and restore the crucial data, the users are told to get in touch with the frauds by means of e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message also says that the people must get in touch with the Gatq authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so individuals will acquire a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom amount drops down to $490.
Gatq encrypted your files, 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 hazard totally, we recommend you to describe the assistance of GridinSoft Anti-Malware app.
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we strongly encourage that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online crooks will keep their promises, 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. Thus, paying ransom typically does not result in an effective recovery. So, the users may just lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Similarly, 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 Gatq virus or restore the information at no charge. Therefore, the only right decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Gatq Ransomware |
| File Extension | gatq |
| 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 .gatq extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Gatq Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Gatq Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now filled with infections comparable to the Gatq ransomware. For example, this specific risk is generally identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging energies have been developed in order to encrypt the crucial information and express the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to generate the particular key for effective information decryption.
Unless the Gatq ransomware is still under the development process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the data manually. Hence, the only working option to prevent the loss of your important data is to regularly preserve updated backups of all your essential files.
Another essential piece of guidance is to keep the backups on unique storage not connected to your main device. For instance, you may save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your routine drive is extremely risky, since the backup may likewise be secured by the Gatq virus.
Leaks for the Gatq ransomware attack.
Gatq uses numerous courses to penetrate the susceptible computers. It is not certain what particular technique was utilized in your case, however, the invasion may occur through the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly freeware;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- sites providing complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Gatq virus might camouflage itself as some real application, for example, through the misleading signals demanding setup of some software application upgrade. This is the most common technique used by the scams to inject the Gatq virus files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without clearly understanding the risk.
In addition, the frauds may send unsolicited spam e-mail with challenging informs motivating the people to open dubious attachments or click some download links, for instance, those encouraging individuals to open particular pictures, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the harmful links might basically harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player upgrade notifications may result in the Gatq ransomware seepage. Similarly, downloading the split software may furthermore include the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Gatq might occur through some Trojan horses that might be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission and even permission.
Avoiding the Gatq attack.
Of course, there is no absolute guarantee that your computer system will be constantly free of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we would like to share some helpful ideas with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay really close attention while browsing the web and especially while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious email attachments, especially if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise consist of some other additional apps in the bundle. These additional applications may be very destructive. It is of utmost importance to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in general to be constantly properly upgraded.
It is rather rational that downloading cracked apps is illegal, nevertheless, furthermore, such unauthorized software use might also bring major damage to your computer. For this reason, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the fact that your current anti-virus did not protect the system from the Gatq ransomware is a good 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 Gatq 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 “.gatq” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Gatq 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 gatq 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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