Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Ioqa Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .ioqa files)

Ioqa – General Info

Ioqa is a destructive software application functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular virus researcher, very first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Ioqa 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. Ioqa virus adds its own “.ioqa” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as crypted by Ioqa, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.ioqa”. As soon as the file encryption is accomplished, Ioqa puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.

The message mentioned by text file asking for the random os really comparable to the alerts given by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The caution basically indicates that the information has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is definitely true.

The approach to encrypt the files used by Ioqa is not totally looked into. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be provided an unique decryption key, which is definitely unique. It is very hard to recover the data without the suitable key in place.

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

Don't worry, you can return all your files! virus

One more peculiarity of the Ioqa virus is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the total control by the scoundrels who have actually released the Ioqa infection into the internet. In order to get the key and bring back the important information, the users are told to get in touch with the frauds through e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.

The message likewise says that individuals should call the Ioqa authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the data file encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom amount falls to $490.

No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty that these online scoundrels will keep their guarantees, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. For this reason, paying ransom typically does not lead to an effective recovery. So, the users might just lose their money for absolutely nothing.

Likewise, we prompt you not to contact the scams as they instruct. Do not move money into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Ioqa virus or bring back the data for free. Therefore, the only right choice is to bring back the information from possible backups (if offered).

Virus Summary

NameIoqa Ransomware
File Extensionioqa
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 .ioqa extension to all the files modified by it.
Distribution MethodAdware bundles and software cracks
Similar InfectionsLokas, Besub, Nusar
Ioqa Removal Tool   GridinSoft Anti-Malware
Ioqa Decryption Tool   Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor

Do not forget that the Web is now loaded with infections similar to the Ioqa virus. For example, this specific threat is generally identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive utilities have been developed in order to encrypt the crucial data and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to create the specific key for successful files decryption.

Unless the Ioqa ransomware is still under the development process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data by hand. Hence, the only working solution to prevent the loss of your crucial data is to regularly maintain up-to-date backups of all your essential data.

Another essential piece of suggestions is to save the backups on unique storage not linked to your main PC. For example, you might 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 really dangerous, since the backup may likewise be encrypted by the Ioqa virus.

Leaks for the Ioqa ransomware attack.

Ioqa uses numerous paths to infiltrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not certain what particular technique was used in your case, however, the intrusion may occur through the following channels:

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

There are times when the Ioqa virus might disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the deceptive alerts demanding setup of some software update. This is the most typical technique utilized by the frauds to inject the Ioqa virus files into the system. By doing this users partly participate in its setup, without clearly understanding the danger.

Furthermore, the scams might send out unsolicited spam e-mail with challenging signals motivating individuals to open dubious accessories or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open certain images, text files, tax documents and other information.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links may essentially harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player upgrade notifications may cause the Ioqa ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the split software may furthermore contain the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, installation of Ioqa may occur through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission or perhaps approval.

Avoiding the Ioqa attack.

Naturally, there is no outright warranty that your computer system will be always devoid of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we wish to share some helpful tips with you to make it safer. Make certain to pay extremely close attention while searching the web and especially while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail accessories, specifically if the sender is not understood to you.

Do not forget that specific freeware installer may likewise include some other extra apps in the package. These extra applications might be really damaging. It is of utmost importance to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in basic to be constantly correctly updated.

It is rather logical that downloading pirated apps is illegal, however, furthermore, such unauthorized software use might also bring severe damage to your system. Hence, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the reality that your current anti-virus did not protect the system from the Ioqa ransomware is a great factor for you to reconsider your choices and switch to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Ioqa 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 “.ioqa” extension added by the ransomware:”

Ioqa Ransomware - encrypt files with .ioqa extension

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

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can download 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 ioqa files

You can get 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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One Comment

  1. Dear, Help me to decrypt my data and file. I was infected with .ioqa ransomware, and all my data was changed to .ioqa extensions. I can’t open all of my file. I work in goverment, so i need the file for work.
    I really need your help to decrypt my file and make the file save.

    regard,

    Riza.

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