Loqw – Ransomware
Loqw is a harmful software application working as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known malware researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Loqw was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as soon as the encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Loqw virus includes its own “.loqw” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Loqw, will be titled as “price_list.xls.loqw”. As soon as the encryption is achieved, Loqw puts its own unique text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by text file asking for the random os very comparable to the notices provided by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The warning generally indicates that the files have been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely real.
The technique to secure the files used by Loqw is not totally researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be released an unique decryption key, which is definitely distinct. It is extremely difficult to recover the information without the suitable key in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Loqw infection is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the complete control by the crooks who have introduced the Loqw ransomware into the web. In order to get the key and bring back the crucial information, the users are told to connect with the scams through email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message likewise states that individuals should contact the Loqw authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data file encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so individuals will get a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Loqw modified your data, however, it might not be the only risk on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be concealed deep in the system. To detect and erase the threat entirely, we advise 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 warranty that these online criminals will keep their guarantees, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom typically does not result in an effective recovery. So, the users may just lose their money for nothing.
Similarly, we advise you not to call the frauds as they advise. Do not transfer loan into their wallets. There are no applications that could break the Loqw ransomware or bring back the information 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 | Loqw Ransomware |
| File Extension | loqw |
| 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 .loqw extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Loqw Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Loqw Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now full of infections comparable to the Loqw ransomware. For instance, this particular danger is basically similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging energies have been developed in order to secure the crucial data and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to create the particular key for successful files decryption.
Unless the Loqw ransomware is still under the development procedure or has actually got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Thus, the only working solution to avoid the loss of your important data is to routinely keep up-to-date backups of all your important files.
Another essential piece of recommendations is to save the backups on special storage not connected to your main PC. For instance, you may save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is really risky, because the backup may also be secured by the Loqw infection.
Leaks for the Loqw ransomware attack.
Loqw uses numerous paths to infiltrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not specific what specific approach was utilized in your case, however, the intrusion may occur through the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily freeware;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites offering complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.
There are times when the Loqw ransomware may camouflage itself as some genuine application, for example, through the deceptive signals demanding installation of some software application update. This is the most common technique used by the scams to inject the Loqw ransomware files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without clearly understanding the threat.
Furthermore, the scams may send out unsolicited spam email with tricky signals motivating individuals to open suspicious attachments or click some download links, for instance, those motivating individuals to open certain images, text files, tax files and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the harmful links might essentially damage the system. Fake Media Player update alerts may lead to the Loqw ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the cracked software may furthermore consist of the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Loqw may occur through some Trojan horses that may be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent or even approval.
Preventing the Loqw virus attack.
Of course, there is no absolute warranty that your computer will be constantly free of any malware attacks, however, we would like to share some useful tips with you to make it much safer. Ensure to pay very attention while browsing the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious email accessories, particularly if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might also contain some other extra apps in the bundle. These extra applications may be really destructive. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in basic to be constantly appropriately updated.
It is quite logical that downloading pirated software is prohibited, nevertheless, furthermore, such unauthorized software use may also bring serious damage to your system. Thus, do not download any split programs. Plus, the fact that your existing anti-virus did not protect the system from the Loqw ransomware is a good factor for you to reevaluate your options and change to another program that can render the protecting functions on a better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Loqw 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 “.loqw” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Loqw 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 loqw 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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