Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Maql Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .maql files)

Maql – General Info

Maql is a destructive software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular malware researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Maql was created for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as quickly as the file encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are unable to get access to them. Maql virus adds its own “.maql” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Maql, will be titled as “price_list.xls.maql”. When the file encryption is accomplished, Maql puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.

The alert specified by document asking for the random os very comparable to the notices given by other ransomware risks coming from the DJVU family. The warning essentially indicates that the information has been secured and the only service to get access to it is to use an unique standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely true.

The approach to secure the files used by Maql is not completely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner might be issued an unique decryption key, which is definitely special. It is very tough to recover the information without the appropriate type in location.

“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:

message from Maql virus

One more peculiarity of the Maql ransomware is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the total control by the scoundrels who have released the Maql ransomware into the world wide web. In order to acquire the key and bring back the important data, the users are told to connect with the scams by means of email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.

The message likewise says that the people must contact the Maql authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the data encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.

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

Likewise, we urge you not to contact the scams as they instruct. Do not move money into their wallets. There are no applications that might split the Maql virus or restore the information at no charge. Therefore, the only proper decision is to restore the information from possible backups (if readily available).

Virus Summary

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

Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections comparable to the Maql ransomware. For example, this particular danger is essentially similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful utilities have been established in order to encrypt the essential information and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to produce the specific key for successful files decryption.

Unless the Maql ransomware is still under the advancement process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Therefore, the only working service to prevent the loss of your important information is to frequently preserve updated backups of all your vital documents.

Another important piece of recommendations is to store the backups on unique storage not linked to your primary device. 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 routine drive is extremely risky, given that the backup might also be secured by the Maql virus.

Leakages for the Maql ransomware attack.

Maql uses numerous paths to infiltrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not specific what specific technique was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the intrusion might take place via the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, generally free software;
  • spam emails from the unidentified senders;
  • websites providing complimentary hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.

There are times when the Maql ransomware might disguise itself as some real application, for example, through the deceptive alerts requiring setup of some software upgrade. This is the most typical trick utilized by the scams to inject the Maql infection files into the system. In this manner users partially participate in its setup, without clearly understanding the threat.

Moreover, the scams may send unsolicited spam e-mail with tricky notifies encouraging the people to open suspicious attachments or click some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open particular pictures, text files, tax documents and other info.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the destructive links may essentially harm the system. Fake Acrobat Reader upgrade notifications may result in the Maql ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the broken software may furthermore consist of the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, setup of Maql might take place through some Trojan horses that might be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization or perhaps consent.

Preventing the Maql ransomware attack.

Naturally, there is no absolute assurance that your computer will be constantly devoid of any malware attacks, however, we want to share some useful ideas with you to make it safer. Make sure to pay extremely attention while browsing the web and especially while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email accessories, especially if the sender is not known to you.

Do not forget that certain freeware installer may also consist of some other additional apps in the bundle. These extra applications may be very harmful. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your os in basic to be always correctly upgraded.

It is rather logical that downloading cracked programs is illegal, nevertheless, additionally, such unauthorized software use may also bring serious damage to your system. Thus, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the reality that your present anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Maql ransomware is a good factor for you to reassess your choices and switch to another program that can render the securing functions on a better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Maql 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 “.maql” extension added by the ransomware:”

Maql Ransomware - encrypt files with .maql extension

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Maql 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 maql 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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