Goaq Virus – Details
Goaq is a harmful software application working as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known malware researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Goaq was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Logically, as soon as the file encryption is successfully accomplished, the users are not able to get access to them. Goaq virus includes its own “.goaq” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Goaq, will be titled as “price_list.xls.goaq”. When the encryption is accomplished, Goaq puts its own unique text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The message stated by _readme.txt requesting the random os really similar to the alerts offered by other ransomware dangers coming from the DJVU family. The warning generally indicates that the information has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.
The method to encrypt the files used by Goaq is not totally investigated. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner may be released an unique decryption key, which is definitely special. It is very difficult to recover the data without the appropriate type in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Goaq 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 crooks who have launched the Goaq infection into the world wide web. In order to obtain the key and bring back the crucial information, the users are told to contact the frauds via e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise says that the people need to call the Goaq authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information encryption. The alert shows that by doing so individuals will get a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom amount drops down to $490.
Goaq crypted your data, however, it might not be the only threat on your computer. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To identify and erase the hazard totally, we advise you to refer to the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware app.
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online criminals will keep their promises, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is received into their accounts. For this reason, paying ransom frequently does not result in an effective healing. So, the users may simply lose their money for nothing.
Likewise, we advise you not to contact the frauds as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Goaq virus or restore the data at no charge. For that reason, the only right choice is to bring back the data from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Goaq Ransomware |
| File Extension | goaq |
| 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 .goaq extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Goaq Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Goaq Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now loaded with infections similar to the Goaq ransomware. For instance, this particular risk is generally similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive energies have actually been established in order to encrypt the essential data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to generate the particular key for successful data decryption.
Unless the Goaq ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the data by hand. Hence, the only working solution to prevent the loss of your crucial data is to routinely keep current backups of all your essential data.
Another important piece of advice is to store the backups on unique storage not connected to your main computer. For example, you may save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is very dangerous, because the backup may likewise be secured by the Goaq .
Leakages for the Goaq ransomware attack.
Goaq utilizes numerous courses to penetrate the vulnerable computers. It is not particular what particular approach was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the invasion may take place through the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly free apps;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites providing complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Goaq may camouflage itself as some real application, for example, through the misleading notifies demanding installation of some software upgrade. This is the most common technique used by the frauds to inject the Goaq virus files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without plainly understanding the danger.
Moreover, the scams might send unsolicited spam e-mail with tricky alerts motivating individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for instance, those encouraging individuals to open particular pictures, text files, tax files and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the malicious links might basically harm the system. Fake Acrobat Reader upgrade alerts may result in the Goaq ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the cracked software might additionally include the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Goaq might occur through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization or even permission.
Preventing the Goaq ransom virus attack.
Obviously, there is no outright guarantee that your computer system will be always free of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we wish to share some useful suggestions with you to make it safer. Make certain to pay extremely very close attention while browsing the web and specifically while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail accessories, especially if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer might also consist of some other extra apps in the package. These additional applications might be extremely harmful. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software and your os in general to be always correctly upgraded.
It is quite rational that downloading pirated software is illegal, however, additionally, such unapproved apps usage may also bring severe damage to your PC. Hence, do not download any split programs. Plus, the reality that your existing anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Goaq ransomware is an excellent reason for you to reassess your choices and change to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Goaq 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 “.goaq” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Goaq 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 goaq 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.
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