Ptqw – Ransomware
Ptqw is a destructive software application working as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known malware researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Ptqw was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as soon as the encryption is successfully achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Ptqw ransomware adds its own “.ptqw” to all the encrypted files. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Ptqw, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.ptqw”. Once the file encryption is accomplished, Ptqw puts its own distinct text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that keep the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by text file asking for the random os really comparable to the alerts offered by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The warning essentially indicates that the information has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely real.
The approach to secure the files utilized by Ptqw is not completely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer owner may be issued a special decryption key, which is absolutely unique. It is extremely tough to recover the data without the suitable key in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Ptqw ransomware is that the users are unable to get access to the key. The decrypting key is hosted on an unique server under the total control by the crooks who have introduced the Ptqw infection into the web. In order to acquire the key and bring back the important data, the users are informed to contact the frauds by means of email or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise says that individuals must get in touch with the Ptqw authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will get a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom amount drops down to $490.
Ptqw crypted your information, however, it may not be the only hazard on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be hidden deep in the system. To discover and delete the danger totally, we recommend you to refer to the assistance of GridinSoft Anti-Malware app.
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we highly recommend that you do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that these online crooks will keep their guarantees, so they might not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. Thus, paying ransom often does not result in a successful healing. So, the users may merely lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we advise you not to get in touch with the frauds as they instruct. Do not transfer cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might split the Ptqw virus or bring back the information at no cost. Therefore, the only proper decision is to restore the information from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Ptqw Ransomware |
| File Extension | ptqw |
| 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 .ptqw extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Ptqw Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Ptqw Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now loaded with infections similar to the Ptqw ransomware. For instance, this particular risk is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful utilities have actually been developed in order to encrypt the essential data and reveal the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to create the specific key for effective files decryption.
Unless the Ptqw ransomware is still under the development procedure or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to bring back the data by hand. Therefore, the only working service to prevent the loss of your important data is to routinely keep updated backups of all your essential data.
Another important piece of suggestions is to keep the backups on unique storage not connected to your main device. For instance, you might store it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your routine drive is really dangerous, given that the backup may likewise be encrypted by the Ptqw .
Leaks for the Ptqw ransomware attack.
Ptqw uses numerous paths to penetrate the susceptible computers. It is not particular what particular method was utilized in your case, nevertheless, the invasion might occur by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly free apps;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- sites supplying complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Ptqw might camouflage itself as some genuine application, for instance, through the misleading informs demanding setup of some software application update. This is the most common trick used by the scams to inject the Ptqw ransomware files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without clearly understanding the risk.
Furthermore, the frauds might send unsolicited spam email with difficult alerts motivating the people to open dubious attachments or click on some download links, for instance, those motivating the people to open specific photos, text files, tax files and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the malicious links may essentially harm the system. Fake Media Player upgrade notices may result in the Ptqw ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the broken software may furthermore include the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Ptqw may occur through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct authorization or perhaps consent.
Avoiding the Ptqw ransom virus injection.
Obviously, there is no outright assurance that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, nevertheless, we want to share some beneficial ideas with you to make it safer. Make sure to pay extremely very close attention while searching the web and specifically while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious email accessories, particularly if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer may likewise consist of some other additional apps in the package. These additional applications might be really damaging. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your os in general to be constantly effectively upgraded.
It is quite sensible that downloading pirated apps is unlawful, nevertheless, additionally, such unauthorized software use might likewise bring severe damage to your system. Thus, do not download any cracked programs. Plus, the fact that your present anti-virus did not safeguard the system from the Ptqw ransomware is a good reason for you to reevaluate your choices and switch to another program that can render the securing functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Ptqw 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 “.ptqw” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Ptqw ransomware from your computer
1.Download GridinSoft Anti-Malware.
You can download 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 ptqw 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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