Qaqa – Ransomware
Qaqa is a destructive software functioning as common ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the widely known virus researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Qaqa was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Realistically, as quickly as the encryption is effectively achieved, the users are not able to get access to them. Qaqa virus adds its own “.qaqa” to all the encrypted files. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as modified by Qaqa, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.qaqa”. Once the encryption is accomplished, Qaqa puts its own unique text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The message specified by text file asking for the random os very similar to the alerts offered by other ransomware threats coming from the DJVU family. The caution essentially shows that the files have been secured and the only solution to get access to it is to use a distinct standalone key. Regretfully, this statement is absolutely real.
The technique to encrypt the files utilized by Qaqa is not completely investigated. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that each computer system owner might be released a special decryption key, which is definitely distinct. It is extremely difficult to recuperate the information without the suitable type in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from _readme.txt message:
One more peculiarity of the Qaqa infection 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 scoundrels who have introduced the Qaqa ransomware into the web. In order to get the key and restore the important data, the users are told to get in touch with the frauds by means of e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message likewise states that the people must get in touch with the Qaqa authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information file encryption. The alert suggests that by doing so the people will obtain a 50% discount, therefore, the ransom amount falls to $490.
Qaqa crypted your files, however, it may not be the only danger on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be concealed deep in the system. To identify and delete the danger completely, we advise you to describe the assistance 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 guarantee that these online scoundrels will keep their pledges, 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. For this reason, paying ransom frequently does not result in an effective healing. So, the users might merely lose their money for nothing.
Similarly, we prompt you not to get in touch with the scams as they instruct. Do not transfer cash into their wallets. There are no applications that might break the Qaqa virus or bring back the data at no cost. Therefore, the only correct decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if offered).
Virus Summary
| Name | Qaqa Ransomware |
| File Extension | qaqa |
| 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 .qaqa extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Qaqa Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Qaqa Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now full of infections similar to the Qaqa ransomware. For example, this particular threat is basically similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These damaging utilities have been established in order to secure the essential data and express the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to generate the particular key for successful data decryption.
Unless the Qaqa 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 solution to avoid the loss of your essential information is to routinely keep current backups of all your crucial files.
Another essential piece of advice is to keep the backups on unique storage not connected to your main PC. For instance, you might save it on the USB Flash Drive, or some external hard disk, or by using the cloud data storage services. Keeping the backups on your system drive is extremely dangerous, since the backup might likewise be secured by the Qaqa ransomware.
Leaks for the Qaqa ransomware attack.
Qaqa utilizes numerous courses to infiltrate the susceptible computer systems. It is not specific what particular method was used in your case, nevertheless, the intrusion may take place by means of the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, mainly free apps;
- spam emails from the unknown senders;
- websites offering complimentary hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Qaqa might disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the misleading alerts requiring setup of some software application update. This is the most common trick utilized by the scams to inject the Qaqa infection files into the system. In this manner users partly participate in its installation, without plainly understanding the threat.
In addition, the scams might send out unsolicited spam e-mail with challenging alerts encouraging individuals to open dubious accessories or click on some download links, for instance, those encouraging the people to open certain images, text files, tax documents and other information.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the destructive links might basically damage the system. Fake Acrobat Reader upgrade notices may result in the Qaqa ransomware infiltration. Likewise, downloading the cracked software may in addition include the ransomware installer. The last but not the least, setup of Qaqa might take place through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct approval or even authorization.
Avoiding the Qaqa ransom virus injection.
Obviously, there is no outright warranty that your computer will be always without any malware attacks, nevertheless, we would like to share some useful suggestions with you to make it much safer. Make certain to pay very very close attention while searching the web and particularly while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any dubious e-mail accessories, specifically if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer might likewise include some other additional apps in the bundle. These additional applications may be extremely damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in basic to be always properly upgraded.
It is quite rational that downloading cracked programs is prohibited, however, additionally, such unapproved software use may likewise bring serious damage to your computer. For this reason, do not download any split programs. Plus, the reality that your present anti-virus did not protect the system from the Qaqa ransomware is a great reason for you to reevaluate your choices and switch to another program that can render the protecting functions on a better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Qaqa 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 “.qaqa” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Qaqa 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 qaqa 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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