Zoqw – General Info
Zoqw is a destructive software functioning as typical ransomware. Michael Gillespie, the popular malware researcher, very first found this new name in the DJVU ransomware family.
Zoqw was developed for the sole purpose to encrypt all popular file types. Rationally, as soon as the file encryption is effectively accomplished, the users are not able to get access to them. Zoqw ransomware adds its own “.zoqw” to all the encrypted data. For instance, the file “price_list.xls”, as soon as crypted by Zoqw, will be titled as “price_list.xls.zoqw”. Once the encryption is achieved, Zoqw puts its own special text document (_readme.txt) into all the folders that store the encrypted files.
The message specified by document asking for the random os extremely similar to the notifications provided by other ransomware threats belonging to the DJVU family. The caution essentially indicates that the information has been encrypted and the only service to get access to it is to use a special standalone key. Regretfully, this declaration is absolutely real.
The method to secure the files used by Zoqw is not entirely investigated. However, there is no doubt that each computer system owner may be issued a special decryption key, which is absolutely unique. It is extremely tough to recuperate the information without the suitable type in location.
“Don’t worry, you can return all your files!”, from text file message:
One more peculiarity of the Zoqw 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 criminals who have actually introduced the Zoqw ransomware into the internet. In order to get the key and restore the important information, the users are told to get in touch with the scams by means of e-mail or by telegram and to pay the ransom in the amount of $980.
The message also states that the people must call the Zoqw authors within 72 hours upon the minute of the information encryption. The alert shows that by doing so the people will acquire a 50% discount rate, therefore, the ransom quantity falls to $490.
Zoqw crypted your data, however, it might not be the only risk on your PC. Plus, the ransomware may be concealed deep in the system. To detect and erase the danger entirely, we suggest you to refer to the assistance 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 warranty that these online crooks will keep their promises, so they may not care at all what the victims feel about the file encryption, even when the amount of the ransom is gotten into their accounts. For this reason, paying ransom frequently does not result in an effective healing. So, the users may simply lose their money for nothing.
Similarly, we prompt you not to call the scams as they instruct. Do not transfer loan into their wallets. There are no applications that could break the Zoqw virus or restore the information at no cost. Therefore, the only right decision is to bring back the data from possible backups (if readily available).
Virus Summary
| Name | Zoqw Ransomware |
| File Extension | zoqw |
| 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 .zoqw extension to all the files modified by it. |
| Distribution Method | Adware bundles and software cracks |
| Similar Infections | Lokas, Besub, Nusar |
| Zoqw Removal Tool | GridinSoft Anti-Malware |
| Zoqw Decryption Tool | Emsisoft Djvu Decryptor |
Do not forget that the Internet is now full of infections comparable to the Zoqw virus. For instance, this specific hazard is generally similar to Brusaf and other ransomware-type infections. These harmful utilities have actually been established in order to encrypt the important information and reveal the demand for the users to pay the ransom. All these infections utilize the similar algorithm to generate the particular key for effective information decryption.
Unless the Zoqw ransomware is still under the development process or has got some hidden bugs, it is not possible to bring back the information by hand. Hence, the only working option to prevent the loss of your essential information is to frequently preserve current backups of all your vital files.
Another crucial piece of recommendations is to keep the backups on special storage not connected to your main PC. For instance, you might keep 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 encrypted by the Zoqw infection.
Leakages for the Zoqw ransomware attack.
Zoqw uses lots of courses to penetrate the vulnerable computer systems. It is not particular what particular method was used in your case, however, the intrusion may happen via the following channels:
- bundling with third-party programs, primarily freeware;
- spam e-mails from the unknown senders;
- websites offering free hosting;
- P2P (peer-to-peer) torrent software.
There are times when the Zoqw ransomware might camouflage itself as some authentic application, for instance, through the deceptive informs demanding installation of some software application update. This is the most common trick utilized by the frauds to inject the Zoqw virus files into the system. By doing this users partially participate in its setup, without plainly understanding the risk.
Moreover, the scams might send unsolicited spam email with tricky alerts motivating the people to open dubious accessories or click some download links, for example, those motivating individuals to open specific images, text files, tax documents and other info.
No doubt, opening these files or clicking the malicious links may essentially harm the system. Fake Adobe Flash Player update alerts may result in the Zoqw ransomware seepage. Similarly, downloading the broken software application may furthermore consist of the ransomware installer. The last however not the least, installation of Zoqw may occur through some Trojan horses that might be installed stealthily into the system and without the user’s direct approval or even authorization.
Preventing the Zoqw virus attack.
Of course, there is no outright guarantee that your computer system will be always devoid of any malware attacks, however, we want to share some useful tips with you to make it much safer. Ensure to pay very attention while searching the web and particularly while getting cost-free programs. Do not open any suspicious e-mail attachments, especially if the sender is not understood to you.
Do not forget that certain freeware installer might likewise include some other extra apps in the package. These extra applications might be very harmful. It is of utmost significance to keep your anti-virus software and your operating system in basic to be always effectively upgraded.
It is rather logical that downloading cracked software is unlawful, however, furthermore, such unapproved software usage might also bring serious damage to your PC. For this reason, do not download any split programs. Plus, the fact that your existing anti-virus did not secure the system from the Zoqw ransomware is a good reason for you to reevaluate your choices and change to another program that can render the safeguarding functions on a much better level.
Below please find the quotation from the Zoqw 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 “.zoqw” extension added by the ransomware:”
Use GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Zoqw 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 zoqw files
You can download 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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