Taqw – Ransomware
Taqw is a harmful software application functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the well-known virus researcher, first discovered this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Taqw was developed for the sole function to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as soon as the encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are unable to get access to them. Taqw ransomware includes its own “.taqw” to all the encrypted data. For example, the file “price_list.xls”, when crypted by Taqw, will be entitled as “price_list.xls.taqw”. As soon as the file encryption is achieved, Taqw puts its own special text file (_readme.txt) into all the folders that save the encrypted files.
The alert mentioned by _readme.txt requesting for the random os extremely similar to the notices given by other ransomware dangers belonging to the DJVU family. The warning essentially indicates that the data has been secured and the only option to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is definitely true.
The technique to encrypt the files used by Taqw is not entirely researched. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be provided an unique decryption key, which is absolutely special. It is exceptionally hard to recuperate the data without the appropriate type in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Taqw virus 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 actually introduced the Taqw virus into the web. In order to obtain the key and restore the essential information, the users are informed to contact the frauds via 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 Taqw authors within 72 hours upon the moment of the information encryption. The alert indicates that by doing so the people will acquire a 50% discount rate, for that reason, the ransom quantity drops down to $490.
Taqw crypted your files, however, it might not be the only danger on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be concealed deep in the system. To spot and delete the risk entirely, we advise you to describe the help of GridinSoft Anti-Malware .
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No matter what the quantity of the ransom is, we highly encourage 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 encryption, even when the quantity of the ransom is received into their accounts. For this reason, paying ransom frequently does not lead to a successful healing. So, the users may just lose their money for absolutely nothing.
Likewise, we advise you not to call the frauds as they instruct. Do not transfer money into their wallets. There are no applications that could crack the Taqw ransomware or restore the information for free. For that reason, the only correct decision is to restore the data from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Taqw Ransomware |
| File Extension | taqw |
| 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 .taqw extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Taqw Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Taqw Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now filled with infections similar to the Taqw virus. For instance, this particular hazard is basically identical to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful energies have actually been established in order to secure the important data and express the need for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the identical algorithm to generate the particular key for successful files decryption.
Unless the Taqw ransomware is still under the development procedure or has got some concealed bugs, it is not possible to restore the data manually. Therefore, the only working service to prevent the loss of your essential information is to routinely keep up-to-date backups of all your vital files.
Another essential piece of advice is to store the backups on special storage not connected to your main computer. For example, you may 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 routine drive is extremely risky, given that the backup may likewise be secured by the Taqw infection.
Leaks for the Taqw ransomware attack.
Taqw utilizes lots of paths to penetrate the susceptible computers. It is not particular what specific method was used in your case, however, the intrusion may occur via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, generally free apps;
- spam e-mails from the unidentified senders;
- websites providing free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Taqw virus might disguise itself as some authentic application, for example, through the misleading informs requiring setup of some software application update. This is the most typical technique utilized by the scams to inject the Taqw ransomware files into the system. By doing this users partly take part in its installation, without plainly understanding the danger.
Furthermore, the frauds may send unsolicited spam email with challenging notifies encouraging individuals to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for example, those encouraging the people to open particular pictures, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking on the destructive links may essentially harm the system. Fake Acrobat Reader update notifications may lead to the Taqw ransomware infiltration. Similarly, downloading the cracked software may in addition include the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Taqw might take place through some Trojan horses that may be set up stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct permission or perhaps approval.
Preventing the Taqw ransom virus attack.
Naturally, there is no outright guarantee that your computer system will be constantly without any malware attacks, nevertheless, we would like to share some helpful pointers with you to make it more secure. Ensure to pay really very close attention while browsing the web and especially while downloading cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail accessories, specifically if the sender is not known to you.
Do not forget that specific freeware installer might likewise include some other extra apps in the bundle. These extra applications may be extremely damaging. It is of utmost value to keep your anti-virus software application and your os in general to be always properly updated.
It is rather rational that downloading pirated apps is unlawful, nevertheless, additionally, such unapproved apps usage may likewise bring major damage to your computer. Thus, do not download any broken programs. Plus, the reality that your current anti-virus did not secure the system from the Taqw ransomware is an excellent factor for you to reassess your choices and switch to another program that can render the protecting functions on a far better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Taqw 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 “.taqw” extension added by the virus:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Taqw 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 taqw 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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