Poqw Virus – Details
Poqw is a malicious software functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known malware researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Poqw was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as quickly as the file encryption is successfully accomplished, the users are not able to get access to them. Poqw virus includes its own “.poqw” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when modified by Poqw, will be titled as “price_list.xls.poqw”. Once the file encryption is achieved, Poqw puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by text file asking for the random os very similar to the alerts provided by other ransomware dangers belonging to the DJVU family. The caution essentially shows that the files have been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely true.
The method to secure the files used by Poqw is not entirely researched. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer owner may be released a special decryption key, which is absolutely unique. It is extremely difficult to recuperate the information without the suitable type in place.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Poqw infection is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on a special server under the total control by the crooks who have actually introduced the Poqw infection into the internet. In order to get the key and restore the crucial information, the users are informed to contact the frauds via email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.
The message also says that the people must call the Poqw authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so the people will acquire a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Poqw crypted your information, however, it may not be the only hazard on your computer. Plus, the ransomware might be concealed deep in the system. To spot and delete the threat completely, we advise you to describe the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the amount of the ransom is, we highly recommend that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online criminals will keep their pledges, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is received into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom often does not lead to a successful healing. So, the users might merely lose their money for nothing.
Likewise, we advise you not to contact the scams as they advise. Do not move cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might break the Poqw virus or restore the information at no charge. For that reason, the only right decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Poqw Ransomware |
| File Extension | poqw |
| 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 .poqw extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Poqw Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Poqw Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Web is now loaded with infections comparable to the Poqw virus. For instance, this particular risk is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These destructive utilities have been developed in order to secure the essential information and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to generate the specific key for effective information decryption.
Unless the Poqw ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has actually got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Therefore, the only working service to prevent the loss of your crucial information is to routinely preserve updated backups of all your vital files.
Another essential piece of suggestions is to store the backups on special storage not linked to your main computer. For example, you may keep it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your routine drive is really risky, because the backup might also be encrypted by the Poqw virus.
Leakages for the Poqw ransomware attack.
Poqw utilizes lots of courses to penetrate the vulnerable computers. It is not particular what particular method was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might happen via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly free software;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites supplying free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Poqw may disguise itself as some genuine application, for example, through the misleading signals demanding installation of some software update. This is the most common trick utilized by the scams to inject the Poqw infection files into the system. In this manner users partially participate in its setup, without clearly comprehending the threat.
In addition, the scams might send out unsolicited spam email with challenging alerts encouraging individuals to open dubious accessories or click on some download links, for example, those encouraging individuals to open certain pictures, text files, tax documents and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the malicious links may essentially harm the system. Fake Acrobat Reader update notices may lead to the Poqw ransomware seepage. Likewise, downloading the broken software application might furthermore include the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Poqw may take place through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct consent or perhaps permission.
Preventing the Poqw virus attack.
Obviously, there is no absolute warranty that your computer will be constantly without any malware attacks, however, we wish to share some beneficial ideas with you to make it safer. Make certain to pay really very close attention while searching the web and especially while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious email accessories, especially if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise include some other additional apps in the package. These extra applications may 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 cracked software is unlawful, nevertheless, additionally, such unapproved software application use may likewise bring serious damage to your system. Hence, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the truth that your current anti-virus did not secure the system from the Poqw ransomware is a great reason for you to reevaluate your options and switch to another program that can render the securing functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Poqw 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 “.poqw” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Poqw 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 poqw 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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