Peek – Ransomware
Peek is a malicious software working as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Peek was created for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as quickly as the file encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Peek ransomware adds its own “.peek” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Peek, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.peek”. When the file encryption is accomplished, Peek puts its own distinct text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The alert stated by _readme.txt requesting the random os very comparable to the notifications offered by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The caution basically shows that the files have been encrypted and the only option to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is absolutely true.
The approach to encrypt the files utilized by Peek is not entirely investigated. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be released an unique decryption key, which is definitely distinct. It is exceptionally tough 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 Peek ransomware 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 crooks who have released the Peek virus into the web. In order to acquire the key and restore the crucial data, the users are informed to connect with the scams by means of e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message likewise states that individuals must get in touch with the Peek authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the data file encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so individuals will obtain a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom amount drops down to $490.
Peek crypted your information, however, it might not be the only risk on your computer. Plus, the ransomware might be concealed deep in the system. To detect and erase the danger entirely, we recommend you to describe the assistance of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we strongly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no warranty 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 quantity of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom typically does not result in a successful recovery. So, the users may simply 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 could split the Peek virus or bring back the data for free. For that reason, the only appropriate decision is to bring back the data from possible backups (if available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Peek Ransomware |
| File Extension | peek |
| 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 .peek extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Mkos, Nbes, Merl |
| Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
Do not forget that the Web is now full of infections similar to the Peek virus. For example, this particular hazard is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging energies have been established in order to encrypt the essential data and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to create the particular key for effective files decryption.
Unless the Peek ransomware is still under the development process or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information by hand. Thus, the only working service to avoid the loss of your crucial data is to routinely keep up-to-date backups of all your crucial data.
Another crucial piece of recommendations is to store the backups on unique storage not connected to your main device. For instance, 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 risky, considering that the backup may likewise be encrypted by the Peek .
Leaks for the Peek ransomware attack.
Peek uses lots of paths to penetrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not certain what specific technique was used in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might take place through the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, generally free software;
- spam emails from the unidentified senders;
- websites offering free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Peek virus may camouflage itself as some genuine application, for example, through the deceptive alerts demanding installation of some software application update. This is the most common trick utilized by the frauds to inject the Peek infection files into the system. This way users partly take part in its setup, without clearly understanding the danger.
In addition, the frauds might send unsolicited spam email with challenging signals encouraging individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for example, those encouraging the people to open certain images, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the malicious links may basically damage the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player upgrade notices may result in the Peek ransomware seepage. Likewise, downloading the broken software may in addition consist of the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Peek may take place through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent and even permission.
Avoiding the Peek ransom virus injection.
Obviously, there is no absolute assurance that your computer system will be always devoid of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we want to share some helpful pointers with you to make it safer. Make sure to pay really close attention while searching the web and especially while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email attachments, especially if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer may likewise include some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications may be extremely destructive. It is of utmost importance to keep your anti-virus software application and your operating system in basic to be constantly appropriately upgraded.
It is quite logical that downloading cracked programs is prohibited, however, additionally, such unapproved apps use might likewise bring serious damage to your computer. Thus, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the reality that your present anti-virus did not secure the system from the Peek ransomware is a great factor for you to reconsider your options and switch to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Peek 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 “.peek” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Peek 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.
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