Muuq – General Info
Muuq is a malicious software working as typical ransomware. Gridinsoft, first discovered this new name of the DJVU ransomware family.
Muuq was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as quickly as the encryption is successfully achieved, the users are unable to get access to them. The Muuq virus adds its own “.muuq” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Muuq, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.muuq”. Once the encryption is accomplished, Muuq puts its own special text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert stated by _readme.txt requesting for the random os extremely similar to the notifications given by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The warning essentially indicates that the data has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is absolutely real.
The approach to secure the files used by Muuq is not completely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be released a unique decryption key, which is absolutely unique. It is extremely hard to recuperate the information without a suitable type in the location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Muuq ransomware is that the users are not able to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a unique server under complete control by the criminals who have released the Muuq virus into the world wide web. In order to get the key and restore the essential information, the users are informed to contact the scams via e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message likewise says that individuals should get in touch with the Muuq authors within 72 hours of the moment of the data encryption. The alert shows that by doing so individuals will acquire a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom quantity falls to $490.
Muuq modified your information, nevertheless, it may not be the only threat on your computer. Plus, the ransomware may be concealed deep in the system. To spot and erase the hazard completely, we advise you to describe the aid of GridinSoft Anti-Malware tool.
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we strongly encourage that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online crooks 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 gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom typically does not result in successful healing. So, the users may just lose their money for nothing.
Similarly, we urge you not to call the frauds as they instruct. Do not transfer cash into their wallets. There are no applications that could split the Muuq virus or restore the data for free. For that reason, the only right choice is to bring back the information from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Muuq Ransomware |
| File Extension | muuq |
| 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 .muuq extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Muuq Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Muuq Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections comparable to the Muuq ransomware. For instance, this specific risk is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive utilities have been established in order to secure the important information and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to create the specific key for successful information decryption.
Unless the Muuq ransomware is still under the development process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Hence, the only working option to prevent the loss of your essential data is to routinely maintain current backups of all your essential data.
Another essential piece of advice is to keep the backups on unique storage not linked to your main device. 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 system drive is very risky, because the backup may likewise be encrypted by the Muuq .
Leaks for the Muuq ransomware attack.
Muuq uses many paths to penetrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not particular what particular approach was utilized in your case, however, the invasion may take place via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, generally free apps;
- spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
- sites providing complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Muuq virus might camouflage itself as some real application, for instance, through the deceptive notifies demanding installation of some software application update. This is the most typical trick used by the scams to inject the Muuq virus files into the system. This way users partially participate in its setup, without clearly understanding the threat.
Moreover, the scams might send unsolicited spam e-mail with difficult informs motivating individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for instance, those encouraging individuals to open particular pictures, text files, tax files and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the harmful links may basically damage the system. Fake Media Player upgrade notices may lead to the Muuq ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the split software application might additionally contain the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Muuq may happen through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission or perhaps authorization.
Avoiding the Muuq ransomware injection.
Obviously, there is no outright warranty that your computer will be always free of any malware attacks, however, we want to share some helpful pointers with you to make it safer. Ensure to pay very very close attention while searching the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail attachments, especially if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer may also contain some other extra apps in the package. These additional applications might be really harmful. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software and your operating system in general to be always effectively updated.
It is quite logical that downloading cracked apps is unlawful, nevertheless, in addition, such unauthorized apps usage may likewise bring serious damage to your system. Thus, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the truth that your current anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Muuq ransomware is a great factor for you to reassess your choices and switch to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Muuq 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 “.muuq” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Muuq 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 muuq 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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