Hhwq Virus Ransomware
Hhwq is a malicious software working as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known malware researcher, very first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Hhwq was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as soon as the file encryption is effectively achieved, the users are unable to get access to them. Hhwq virus adds its own “.hhwq” to all the encrypted files. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Hhwq, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.hhwq”. As soon as the encryption is achieved, Hhwq puts its own distinct text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by text file requesting for the random os very similar to the notifications provided by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The caution generally shows that the data has been secured and the only service to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is absolutely real.
The technique to encrypt the files utilized by Hhwq is not completely looked into. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be provided a special decryption key, which is absolutely distinct. It is very hard to recuperate the data without the suitable key in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Hhwq infection 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 criminals who have actually launched the Hhwq infection into the web. In order to acquire the key and restore the important information, the users are informed to get in touch with the frauds 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 Hhwq authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data file encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so the people will acquire a 50% discount rate, therefore, the ransom amount drops down to $490.
Hhwq crypted your data, nevertheless, it might not be the only threat on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To spot and delete the risk totally, we suggest you to refer to the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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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 assurance that these online criminals will keep their promises, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is received into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom often does not lead to a successful recovery. So, the users might merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we urge you not to call the scams as they advise. Do not transfer loan into their wallets. There are no applications that might crack the Hhwq virus or restore the data at no cost. For that reason, the only correct choice is to restore the data from possible backups (if available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Hhwq Ransomware |
| File Extension | hhwq |
| 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 .hhwq extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Hhwq Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Hhwq Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now filled with infections similar to the Hhwq ransomware. For instance, this particular danger is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful energies have actually been established in order to encrypt the essential data and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the identical algorithm to produce the particular key for successful data decryption.
Unless the Hhwq ransomware is still under the advancement process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Thus, the only working service to avoid the loss of your crucial information is to frequently preserve up-to-date backups of all your essential files.
Another crucial piece of guidance is to store the backups on special storage not linked to your primary PC. For example, you may keep it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your regular drive is really dangerous, given that the backup might likewise be secured by the Hhwq infection.
Leakages for the Hhwq ransomware attack.
Hhwq utilizes lots of courses to infiltrate the vulnerable computers. It is not certain what specific method was used in your case, however, the invasion may take place by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily free apps;
- spam emails from the unknown senders;
- sites providing complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Hhwq virus may disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the deceptive informs demanding installation of some software update. This is the most common trick used by the frauds to inject the Hhwq ransomware files into the system. In this manner users partially take part in its setup, without plainly understanding the risk.
Furthermore, the frauds might send out unsolicited spam e-mail with difficult informs motivating the people to open dubious attachments or click on some download links, for example, those motivating individuals to open certain pictures, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links may basically damage the system. Fake Acrobat Reader upgrade alerts may lead to the Hhwq ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the split software may additionally include the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, installation of Hhwq might happen through some Trojan horses that may be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct approval or perhaps permission.
Preventing the Hhwq ransomware injection.
Obviously, there is no outright warranty that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, nevertheless, we want to share some useful ideas with you to make it more secure. Make certain to pay really attention while browsing the web and specifically while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail accessories, particularly 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 damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software and your os in basic to be always appropriately upgraded.
It is quite logical that downloading pirated programs is unlawful, nevertheless, in addition, such unapproved programs usage might also bring major damage to your PC. Hence, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the fact that your present anti-virus did not protect the system from the Hhwq ransomware is a great factor for you to reassess your options and change to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Hhwq 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 “.hhwq” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Hhwq 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 hhwq 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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