Remove BOZQ Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .bozq FILES)

remove BOZQ ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .bozq extension (free guide)

BOZQ Ransomware Virus Scare: The Need to Secure Your PC

Contents

BOZQ Ransomware Virus Scare: The Need to Secure Your PC
- The ransomware leaves a money-demanding note behind
- Ransomware Summary
Distribution methods used by cybercriminals
- Use of emails/attachments
- Online torrent platforms and P2P
Why you should remove BOZQ ransomware virus immediately
Decrypt BOZQ files
Frequently Asked Questions

BOZQ ransomware virus is a piece of malware that targets unprotected computers. The changes that will occur following its attack can be fast and quite dramatic. Since it is a new version of STOP/DJVU ransomware, it will immediately begin scanning the system and targeting all files contained in every folder, including documents, pictures, videos etc. The files will be encrypted one after another (encryption is a potentially irreversible process that reduces stored data to unreadable junk). As each file becomes encrypted, .bozq extension will be appended to them as a mark of identification. In other words, existing files with names like 1.jpeg, 2.jpg and 3.png, depending on what is stored by the owner, now transform to 1.bozq, 2.jpg.bozq and 3.png.bozq.

When PC owners fail in their duty to protect their computers from being infected, the next crucial action they should take is to remove the ransomware virus as quickly as possible. Removing the ransomware virus quickly will stop further damage and enable the PC owner to seek ways of recovering/replacing damaged files.

The ransomware leaves a money-demanding note behind

Following a ransomware infection and data encryption, the malware also forwards text notes known as _readme.txt to every folder. Those behind the attack use it as a medium to pass their message across to the victim. They will claim that the cyber-attack was successful, and as a result, the entire database has become encrypted.

However, they will also promise to decrypt the files provided the victim is ready to comply with their demands. To make way for more discussions, two emails are also forwarded to the victim i.e., support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.

No matter the pressure, victims of ransomware virus attack, are advised never to negotiate with cybercriminals. Trying to seek their assistance or requesting their so-called decryption tools are efforts in futility. From our studies, such attempts do not end well for the victim.

Be that as it may, when victims write to them via any of the two email addresses provided, they will receive an automated response detailing the amount they’re expected to pay as well as the conditions of payment. Usually, they will first state that $980 is the ransom fee to be paid to forward the decryption tools. But in order to make the victim pay without further delay, they often add a caveat that 50% could be slashed off for victims that can pay within 3 days of being notified to do so.

This brings the ransom fee to $490. However, once 72 hours elapses and they don’t receive it, only the maximum ransom fee becomes acceptable. It should also be noted that only payment made via cryptocurrency transfer is acceptable to them. In their effort to remain anonymous, cybercriminals typically avoid bank payments or any form of money transfer that could possibly expose their real identity.

These online rogues have continued to be a menace because some victims continue to pay ransom to them. There are other factors victims of ransomware viruses should consider before making any decision; please check below:

It encourages cybercriminals to continue attacking others.
It is considered unlawful to pay a ransom.
It makes the victim vulnerable to further attacks from now on.
It helps them to expand their illegal operations.

If you’ve been attacked by this malware, we recommend that you do not pay the ransom. Instead, focus on securing your computer. Therefore, you should remove BOZQ ransomware virus first using a reliable antivirus. If you’re hesitant on which brand to choose, you may want to read a review and try INTEGO Antivirus, a reliable Windows security solution.

Ransomware Summary

Name	BOZQ Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	POWD, TOHJ, TUIS, TURY, POHJ, POWZ (find full list here)
Version	597th
Extension	.bozq
Cybercriminal emails	support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult or Vidar Trojan
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .bozq extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online.
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom demand	$490-$980 in Bitcoin
Distribution	Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico.
Known software cracks to contain this malware	Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, League of Legends.
Detection names	Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.MK!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal
Removal	Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus.

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What the cybercriminals behind this ransomware do is use deceptive methods to take their victims unawares. However, being informed i.e. knowing the dos and don’ts that could trigger a ransomware virus infection, can help PC owners to stay out of malware problem. A very important first step is to have genuine antivirus software installed and kept active whenever your computer runs. Another important thing is to get to know typical malware distribution channels to avoid getting infected.

Distribution methods used by cybercriminals

Cybercriminals usually hide behind certain smokescreens in their desperate attempts to infect computers. The major ones are chronicled in this section.

Use of emails/attachments

Cybercriminals sometimes impersonate individuals or popular brands like Amazon, Yahoo, or FedEx etc. To be more convincing, they also use business terms like Order Summary, Tracking Number or Invoice for the accompanying attachment. When their target audience falls for it and opens the attachment, they unwittingly infect their computer with BOZQ ransomware virus. What to do? Delete such deceptive emails once you find them.

Online torrent platforms and P2P

Some individuals in need of software often try to cut corners by seeking their pirated versions. This is a dangerous thing to do because cybercriminals now clone popular software content (or simply rename the malware file as a setup) and embed them with malware before uploading to online torrent platforms. In an attempt to save money, some PC owners not only end up downloading fake software contents but also compromise their computer and sensitive personal information. What to do? Only subscribe for software contents via the official platforms endorsed by the copyright owners.

The use of P2P software sharing is another method used by some PC owners who prefer to get them as freebies than to pay the subscription cost. It is not only morally wrong to distribute copyright protected contents without permission or paying the necessary fee but also quite risky. P2P sharing of software exposes computers to malware infection and possible ransomware attack. What to do? Only source for your software content needs through the officially recognized channels and also pay the requisite fees.

While ransomware virus are basically used for encryption and subsequent extortion, RATs on the other hand are used in stealing vital personal details including software login information, banking details, cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history, etc.

Many software contents are available in the market, but cybercriminals mostly target the popular ones. Since their motive is to distribute malware to as many computers as possible, they pirate software content in high demand, embed them with malware, and wait for their target audience to fall victim. Here is a list of software content we compiled from the reports made by previous victims. You will agree that most of them are highly sought after:

Adobe Photoshop;
Corel Draw;
Microsoft Office;
Cubase;
VMware Workstation;
Internet Download Manager;
League of Legends;
HP Printer Drivers;
FIFA 22;
Adobe Illustrator;
Tenorshare 4ukey.

It is important for computer owners to be aware that ransomware virus is not the only risk involved when they engage in any of the above unwholesome acts. Cybercriminals also use the opportunity to distribute Remote Access Trojans otherwise known as RATs.

Why you should remove BOZQ ransomware virus immediately

We generally advise victims to immediately get rid of BOZQ ransomware virus once it is detected in their computer. The reason is to curtail further spread of the ransomware virus and also to begin the recovery. Nevertheless, the best protective measure is to install genuine antivirus software in your computer and keep it active. For this purpose, we recommend INTEGO Antivirus because it is recognized as reliable and performs excellent in independent AV lab tests.

Here are other important things you should do after a ransomware attack:

Replace lost data using your backup.
Immediately change all passwords.
Inform relevant local authorities.

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Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:

STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS

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BOZQ Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove BOZQ Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube.

Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users

First of all, turn off your PC. Then press the Power button to start it again and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. This launches the Advanced Boot Options menu.
Use arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate down to Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter.

Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users

Open Windows Start menu, then press down the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then select Restart option.
This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. In this case, it is the F5 key.

Step 2. Remove files associated with the virus

Now, you can search for and remove BOZQ Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus, which also includes data recovery software. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.

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Method 2. Use System Restore

In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically.

Step 1. Boot Windows in Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users

Shut down your PC. Start it again by pressing the Power button and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. You will see Advanced Boot Options menu.
Using arrow keys on the keyboard, navigate down to Safe Mode with Command Prompt option and press Enter.

Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users

Launch Windows Start menu, then click the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then choose Restart option with the mouse cursor.
This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt. In this case, press F6 key.

Step 2. Start System Restore process

Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter. Or you can just type %systemroot%system32restorerstrui.exe in command prompt and hit Enter.
This launches System Restore window. Click Next and then choose a System Restore point created in the past. Choose one that was created before ransomware infection.
Click Yes to begin the system restoration process.

After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won't be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

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Decrypt BOZQ files

Fix and open large BOZQ files easily:

It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.

Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the BOZQ extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
Try opening the file.

STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide

STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. BOZQ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like POWD, TOHJ, TUIS, TURY, POHJ, POWZ (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie.

Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible.

In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt BOZQ files, follow the given tutorial.

Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
In UAC window, click Yes.
Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
The tool will automatically include C:// disk as a location to decrypt. The file recovery tool will prepopulate the locations to scan, including connected data storage drives or network drives. Click Add folder if you wish to add additional locations.
In Options tab, you can choose to keep encrypted file copies. We recommend leaving this option selected, especially if you do not know if the decryption tool will work.
Click Decrypt to start restoring BOZQ files. You will see the progress in the Results tab. Here, you can see messages from the tool, such as whether the decryption procedure is successful, or you need to wait for an update.
You might also be informed that online key was used to encrypt your files. In such case, the decryption tool won't work for you, and the only way to recover your files is to use a data backup.

Meanings of decryptor's messages

The BOZQ decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages:

Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID]

This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor's database.

No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]
Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible

This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible.

Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]
This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.

If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn't available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your BOZQ extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.

Report Internet crime to legal departments

Victims of BOZQ Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:

In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.
In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.
In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.
In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.
In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.
In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.
In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.

If you can't find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up "[your country name] report cyber crime". This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities.

Another recommendation is to contact your country's or region’s federal police or communications authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

✓ How can I open .BOZQ files?

You can only open BOZQ files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

To figure out whether you were affected by offline encryption, please go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and see if the string inside of it ends in t1. You can also try using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP/DJVU.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official BOZQ decryption tools and believe what they say. If they say it is impossible to decrypt, it really is so. There is no magic tool or human capable of decrypting your files hiding somewhere. Encryption is a technique created to be nearly impossible to decrypt without a special private key (held by the criminals).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

We advise scanning with anti-virus, anti-malware, malware removal tools or software like RESTORO to eliminate virus damage on the system. If you do not trust using a single tool, try running one after another. However, we do not recommend keeping several security programs on a computer at once as they can interfere with each other's work.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake BOZQ decryption tools circulating around the web. Cyber criminals are uploading them to various shady websites, also might be promoting them via suspicious Youtube videos. These programs can infect your computer even more heavily (Trojans, miners, etc.). We suggest being extremely cautious around the web. If there will be an official STOP/DJVU decryption tool available, it will be widely discussed in public media.

Norbert Webb

Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.