Djvu VirusRansomwareRemoval Guide

Pqgs Virus Removal Guide (+Decrypt .pqgs files)

Pqgs – General Info

Pqgs is a malicious software functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.

Pqgs was created for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as soon as the file encryption is successfully achieved, the users are unable to get access to them. Pqgs ransomware includes its own “.pqgs” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as modified by Pqgs, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.pqgs”. As soon as the file encryption is achieved, Pqgs puts its own unique text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.

The message specified by text file requesting for the random os really similar to the alerts offered by other ransomware dangers belonging to the DJVU family. The warning generally indicates that the information has been encrypted and the only option to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is definitely real.

The approach to secure the files used by Pqgs is not completely investigated. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be released an unique decryption key, which is definitely unique. It is exceptionally tough to recuperate the information without the appropriate type in place.

“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:

message from Pqgs virus

One more peculiarity of the Pqgs 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 complete control by the criminals who have introduced the Pqgs ransomware into the web. In order to get the key and restore the crucial information, the users are told to contact the scams through email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the quantity of $980.

The message likewise says that the people must call the Pqgs authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the data encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so individuals will acquire a 50% discount, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.

No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we strongly advise that you do not pay the ransom. There is no assurance that these online criminals will keep their pledges, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is received into their accounts. Hence, paying ransom frequently does not result in an effective recovery. So, the users may merely lose their money for nothing.

Similarly, we advise you not to call the scams as they advise. Do not move loan into their wallets. There are no applications that might break the Pqgs ransomware or restore the data for free. For that reason, the only appropriate choice is to bring back the data from possible backups (if offered).

Virus Summary

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

Do not forget that the Internet is now full of infections comparable to the Pqgs ransomware. For instance, this particular threat is essentially identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful utilities have been established in order to secure the essential information and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections use the similar algorithm to generate the specific key for successful information decryption.

Unless the Pqgs ransomware is still under the advancement procedure or has actually got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the information manually. Therefore, the only working solution to prevent the loss of your important information is to regularly preserve current backups of all your important data.

Another important piece of recommendations is to store the backups on special storage not connected to your primary device. For example, you might keep it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk drive, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is extremely dangerous, given that the backup might likewise be secured by the Pqgs .

Leakages for the Pqgs ransomware attack.

Pqgs utilizes lots of courses to penetrate the vulnerable computers. It is not particular what specific approach was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might happen by means of the following channels:

  • bundling with third-party programs, generally freeware;
  • spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
  • websites supplying complimentary hosting;
  • P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent downloads.

There are times when the Pqgs ransomware might disguise itself as some genuine application, for example, through the deceptive signals demanding installation of some software upgrade. This is the most common technique utilized by the frauds to inject the Pqgs virus files into the system. By doing this users partially take part in its setup, without plainly 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 motivating individuals to open particular pictures, text files, tax documents and other info.

No doubt, opening these files or clicking the harmful links might basically harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player upgrade notices may lead to the Pqgs ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the split software application may in addition contain the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, installation of Pqgs may take place through some Trojan horses that may be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission or even authorization.

Preventing the Pqgs ransomware attack.

Obviously, there is no absolute warranty that your computer will be always free of any malware attacks, nevertheless, we would like to share some useful ideas with you to make it more secure. Make sure to pay very attention while searching the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email attachments, specifically if the sender is not understood to you.

Do not forget that specific freeware installer might also include some other extra apps in the bundle. These extra applications might be extremely destructive. It is of utmost importance to keep your anti-virus software and your operating system in basic to be always effectively updated.

It is quite rational that downloading pirated apps is prohibited, however, additionally, such unapproved programs usage might also bring severe damage to your computer. Hence, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the fact that your present anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Pqgs ransomware is an excellent reason for you to reconsider your options and change to another program that can render the securing functions on a far better level.

Below please find the quotation from the Pqgs 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 “.pqgs” extension added by the ransomware:”

Pqgs Ransomware - encrypt files with .pqgs extension

Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Pqgs ransomware from your computer

1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.

You can get 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 pqgs 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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