Remove COAQ Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .coaq FILES)

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

COAQ ransomware takes personal files hostage on a computer

Contents

COAQ ransomware takes personal files hostage on a computer
Distribution of ransomware-type threats
Remove COAQ ransomware virus and recover your files
Decrypt COAQ files
Frequently Asked Questions

COAQ ransomware is a file-encrypting computer virus that targets Windows-running systems. This ransomware is a variant of STOP/DJVU, one of the most widespread ransomware families. Its main aim is to encrypt data on vulnerable computers and convince the victim to purchase a decryption tool from cybercriminals. During the attack, this virus marks each locked file with an additional .coaq extension, making it distinguishable. To see how encrypted file names are changed, see the following example: 1.jpg becomes 1.jpg.coaq, 2.docx turns into 2.docx.coaq and so on. No program will be capable of opening encrypted files. To explain what has been done to all data and introduce the cybercriminals ‘solution,’ the malware drops _readme.txt ransom notes in multiple data folders.

The ransomware may also delete Volume Shadow Copies from the computer to prevent easy data recovery for the victim. It aims to make the victim believe that purchasing COAQ file decryption solution is the only way to restore encrypted data. This threat was developed with intention to extort the computer user by taking all files as hostages.

The ransom note asks to pay money

The _readme.txt ransom note created by the ransomware can be found in various folders containing at least some files encrypted during the attack. The note states what types of data have been encrypted, and warns there is no other way to decrypt those files except if the victim pays the ransom to the cybercriminals.

The note suggests contacting the ransomware operators via email, and includes two email addresses that belong to the perpetrators: support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. According to the criminals, victims who write to the attackers within 3 days will be eligible for a special 50% discount on the decryption tool price. In such case, they will provide the tool for $490. If the victim delays writing to them any longer, they will demand paying the initial amount – $980.

Later on, they will explain how to pay the ransom. Regular transactions are not accepted; the crooks want to receive the payment via cryptocurrency, as this guarantees their identity protection. Simply put, they are taking precautionary measures to avoid getting tracked by law enforcement.

To persuade the computer user to pay a ransom, they offer testing the decryption service on one small file that doesn’t contain important information. They ask to send one encrypted file and also the Personal ID provided in the ransom note to them, and promise to send a decrypted file version back.

However, no matter how hard the cybercriminals may try to convince you to pay the ransom, you shouldn’t do so. Despite their promises, they may never provide working decryption tools. Trusting them would be naive; besides, paying money to them encourages cybercrime. In addition, after receiving your payment, they might start demanding more money. For more information about ransomware and ransoms, please read guidelines published by FBI and NCSC.

The ransomware is accompanied by information stealers

Samples submitted to online malware analysis platforms show that malicious files that deliver STOP/DJVU ransomware often carry additional malware, such as VIDAR, AZORult, and RedLine. Here is a brief overview of what each of these threats is capable of doing:

Vidar is a information-stealing Trojan that can grab sensitive data, including passwords, browsing history and credit card details.
Azorult is a sophisticated threat that is designed to steal private information, such as login credentials, offline cryptocurrency wallets, cookies, browsing history, and more. It can also be used to download and run more malware on the compromised systems.
Redline Stealer is highly complex malware that is used to exfiltrate private data, including usernames, passwords, credit card information, cryptocurrency wallets, and can also steal information from applications like FileZilla, Steam, Telegram, Discord and various VPN clients.

In order to protect your privacy, we recommend you to remove COAQ ransomware virus along these stealers using guidelines provided below the article. It is essential to take additional steps to secure your accounts afterward, so do not forget to change your passwords wherever needed. To remove all traces of malware, consider using a trustworthy antivirus such as INTEGO Antivirus. Afterward, download RESTORO to repair any damage the malware has inflicted on Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

Name	COAQ Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (find full list here)
Version	659th
Extension	.coaq
Cybercriminal emails	support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult, RedLine or Vidar
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .coaq 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, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends.
Detection names	Trojan:Win32/Azorult.FW!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. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link).

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Distribution of ransomware-type threats

There are many ways through which the cybercriminals deliver ransomware to user’s computers. The most common methods are briefly overviewed below. Keep in mind that STOP/DJVU variants like COAQ virus are most often discovered in rogue websites promoting fake software cracks.

Deceptive websites. Cybercriminals often prey for potential victims by setting up a list of almost identical malicious websites. The majority of these websites promote illegal downloads, most often copyright-protected software or movies. Victims who stumble upon these online resources in hopes to save money and download desired software for free typically end up getting their computers infected with severe malware. Our advice is, avoid downloading cracked software as it mostly contains malware.

Malicious email spam. Attackers often target computer users by sending phishing emails, pretending to be from a well-known company or even government agency. Such emails are composed to convince the recipient to open attached files or links. If the user does so, the malicious code in the attachment unleashes the hidden payload and compromises the system.

Vulnerability exploits. Cybercriminals often target specific vulnerabilities in software users have installed on their computers. Exploiting these vulnerabilities can allow the attackers to access victim’s computer and install harmful software. That said, we would like to remind computer users to keep their operating software and installed programs up to date by installing the latest security patches and updates.

RDP attacks. Cybercriminals often target weak RDP credentials when attempting to access computer systems. That is why it is important to use additional security measures to protect RDP connections. Use strong passwords and alter the firewall’s settings to only allow connections from specific IPs.

In addition, protecting the computer system with a reputable antivirus is simply a must. Furthermore, computer users should backup their important data regularly and store these backups in a secure location.

Remove COAQ ransomware virus and recover your files

Our team has prepared detailed instructions on how computer users can remove COAQ ransomware virus and related malware from their computers. Follow these steps attentively. Make sure you use a robust AV solution in order to detect all traces of the malware that has invaded your computer system. Our team strongly recommends using software like INTEGO Antivirus for this task.

Once COAQ virus removal is done, you may also want to take an extra step and scan your computer for virus damage. For this task, download RESTORO and see its scan report.

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COAQ 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 COAQ 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 COAQ 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. 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.

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Decrypt COAQ files

Fix and open large COAQ 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 COAQ 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. COAQ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like KAAA, BGJS, BGZQ (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 COAQ 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 COAQ 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 COAQ 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 COAQ 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 COAQ 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 .COAQ files?

You can only open COAQ 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 COAQ 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 COAQ 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.