Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Hhqa Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .hhqa files)

Hhqa – General Info

Hhqa is a destructive software working as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular malware researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Hhqa was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as soon as the encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Hhqa ransomware includes its own “.hhqa” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as crypted by Hhqa, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.hhqa”. As soon as the file encryption is achieved, Hhqa puts its own special text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.

The alert mentioned by document requesting the random os very similar to the notices given by other ransomware risks coming from the DJVU family. The caution generally shows that the files have been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.

The method to secure the files used by Hhqa is not entirely looked into. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be issued a special decryption key, which is definitely special. It is very tough to recover the information without the appropriate key in place.

“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:

message from Hhqa virus

One more peculiarity of the Hhqa virus is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the complete control by the crooks who have actually released the Hhqa virus into the web. In order to obtain the key and bring back the important data, the users are told to get in touch with 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 call the Hhqa authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data file encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so individuals will get a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom amount drops down to $490.

No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly recommend that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online crooks will keep their guarantees, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom often does not lead to an effective recovery. So, the users might simply lose their money for absolutely 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 might crack the Hhqa virus or restore the data at no charge. Therefore, the only right decision is to bring back the information from possible backups (if available).

Virus Summary

NameHhqa Ransomware
File Extensionhhqa
TypeRansomware
FamilyDJVU
Short DescriptionThe 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.
SymptomsFile 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 .hhqa extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution MethodAdware bundles and software cracks
Similar InfectionsLokas, Besub, Nusar
Hhqa Removal Tool   GridinSoft Anti-Malware
Hhqa Decryption Tool   Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor

Do not forget that the Web is now filled with infections comparable to the Hhqa virus. For instance, this particular risk is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful utilities have been established in order to secure the crucial data and express the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to produce the specific key for effective data decryption.

Unless the Hhqa ransomware is still under the development procedure or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the data by hand. Thus, the only working solution to prevent the loss of your crucial information is to routinely maintain up-to-date backups of all your essential documents.

Another important piece of suggestions is to save the backups on unique storage not linked to your main device. For example, 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 system drive is extremely dangerous, considering that the backup might likewise be encrypted by the Hhqa infection.

Leaks for the Hhqa ransomware attack.

Hhqa uses numerous courses to infiltrate the susceptible computers. It is not certain what specific technique was used in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might occur via the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, mainly free software;
  • spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
  • websites supplying free hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.

There are times when the Hhqa virus might disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the misleading notifies requiring installation of some software application upgrade. This is the most typical technique utilized by the scams to inject the Hhqa ransomware files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without plainly understanding the risk.

Furthermore, the frauds may send unsolicited spam email with difficult signals motivating individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for example, those motivating individuals to open particular images, text files, tax documents and other info.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking the malicious links may basically damage the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update notifications may lead to the Hhqa ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the broken software might furthermore contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Hhqa may take place through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent or perhaps authorization.

Avoiding the Hhqa ransomware injection.

Naturally, there is no outright guarantee that your computer system will be constantly free of any malware attacks, however, we want to share some useful tips with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay really attention while searching the web and particularly while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail accessories, especially if the sender is not known to you.

Do not forget that specific freeware installer may also include some other extra apps in the package. These additional applications may be extremely destructive. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in basic to be always appropriately updated.

It is rather logical that downloading pirated software is illegal, nevertheless, additionally, such unapproved apps use might likewise bring severe damage to your PC. Thus, do not download any split programs. Plus, the fact that your present anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Hhqa ransomware is an excellent factor for you to reevaluate your options and change to another program that can render the securing functions on a much better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Hhqa 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 “.hhqa” extension added by the virus:”

Hhqa Ransomware - encrypt files with .hhqa extension

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Hhqa ransomware from your computer

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can get GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the button below:

  GridinSoft Anti-Malware

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware
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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Setup

3. Press Install button for run GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware Install

3.Once installed, GridinSoft Anti-Malware will automatically run.

GridinSoft Anti-Malware  Start

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan

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.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware Scan Result

Use Emsisoft Decryptor for restore hhqa files

You can download Emsisoft Decryptor by clicking the button below:

  Emsisoft Decryptor

  1. Run the decryptor as an administrator. The license terms will show up, which you have to agree to by clicking the “Yes” button.
  2. Once the license terms are accepted, the primary decryptor user interface opens.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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
  6. 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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Daniel Zimmermann

Daniel Zimmermann has been writing on security and malware subjects for many years and has been working in the security industry for over 10 years. Daniel was educated at the Saarland University in Saarbrücken, Germany and currently lives in New York.

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