Remove GGWQ Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .ggew FILES)

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

GGWQ ransomware locks files on computers using encryption

Contents

GGWQ ransomware locks files on computers using encryption
Ransomware distribution and prevention
Remove GGWQ Ransomware Virus and Decrypt or Repair Your Files
Decrypt GGWQ files
Frequently Asked Questions

GGWQ is a ransomware-type computer virus that is designed to encrypt all files on the target system. It is a recognized variant of the STOP/DJVU ransomware family which uses .ggwq extension to mark encrypted files. To illustrate how this works, let’s look at this example – files originally named 1.jpg and 2.txt will appear as 1.jpg.ggwq and 2.txt.ggwq following the computer attack. The reason why this virus encrypts data is solely financial gain, as the cybercriminals explain in the _readme.txt ransom note dropped in each computer folder. According to it, the attackers expect the victim to pay $490-$980 for GGWQ file decryption software.

This computer threat mainly spreads via illegal online downloads, namely “cracked” software versions. The cybercriminals upload them to rogue websites claiming these are fully working copies of premium paid computer programs. Victims who fall for these claims download a malicious executable that launches the ransomware on the system.

Contents of the ransom note

The ransom note dropped by the virus contains a short message from the criminals who are responsible for these malware attacks. They demand for victim’s attention and explain that all files were locked using the strongest encryption and unique key, which makes it impossible to recover files without the attackers’ help. They explain that the only way to get files back is to pay a ransom and receive special decryption tools.

Next, the note clarifies that the victim should contact the ransomware operators via one of provided emails – support@bestyourmail.ch or supportsys@airmail.cc. In addition, they advise that if the computer user writes to them within 72 hours, they will provide a 50% discount on the decryption software, meaning that the ransom amount will be set to $490. Otherwise, they suggest the victim has to pay the full amount, which is $980. One way or another, they will ask to pay the ransom in cryptocurrency so that their identities couldn’t be tracked down.

In addition to that, the ransom note asks the computer user to attach one sample encrypted file to the email and also include the Personal ID string (provided at the end of the ransom note). The crooks promise to demonstrate their capability to restore victim’s data by sending an original file version back to the victim.

However, ransomware victims should stick to the official FBI recommendations that emphasize paying the ransom is not a recommended option. On top of that, cybercriminals have a tendency to continue blackmailing victims who have already paid up. Most importantly, paying money to cybercriminals only encourages them to continue their activities.

Additional details about this ransomware

GGWQ extension virus was specifically created to attack computers worldwide except those situated in specific countries: Russia, Ukraine, Syria, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Armenia, Tajikistan, Kazachstan, or Uzbekistan. To perform a check of a computer’s location, the virus requests a response from https[:]//api.2ip.ua/geo.json and saves it into the geo.json file. This file contains computer’s IP address, country, city, zip code and more details. Then it compares the information received with its exception list and decides whether to encrypt data on the computer or not.

Aside from data encryption, this ransomware also drags additional malware into the computer. Research shows that STOP/DJVU variants mostly spread two popular Trojans – VIDAR and AZORULT Stealers. Both are known for their capabilities to extract certain information from compromised computer and transfer it to the cybercriminals’ servers. Types of data they can steal include cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history, browser-saved cookies and passwords and more. Such information can allow the attacker to blackmail the computer user or even cause financial damage.

Due to the danger that these computer threats cause to user’s privacy and personal files, we recommend you to remove GGWQ ransomware virus as soon as possible. For this task, it is better if you boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking first – it allows safe removal of the threat. Then run a trusted antivirus solution (make sure it is a genuine copy!) to completely erase all malware traces. Then, you may want to download RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

Name	GGWQ Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	JJWW, HHEW, HHWQ, HHEO, GGEW (find full list here)
Version	525th
Extension	.ggwq
Cybercriminal emails	support@bestyourmail.ch and supportsys@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 .ggwq 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.PAL!MTB (Microsoft), Trojan.Crypt (A) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.47850419 (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. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link).

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The screenshot provided below shows a data folder affected by this ransomware.

Ransomware distribution and prevention

Ransomware-type threats are mainly distributed through phishing emails that contain malware-injected attachments and also via illegal online downloads. In fact, the latter is considered to be the main STOP/DJVU attack vector.

Computer users should be very careful when checking their email. The cybercriminals use email spoofing techniques and try to mimic the style of emails that are usually sent by legitimate companies. For this matter, they might impersonate someone from online store, parcel delivery service, or even your work.

Our advice is to avoid interacting with emails or their attachments if the message reaches you by surprise and you can feel that the sender urges you to click on the attached file or inserted URL. Another thing to inspect is the greeting line – cybercriminals often use generic greetings, such as “Dear valued customer/Dear Sir or Madam” etc.

Sometimes, scammers use scare tactics and try to convince the recipient of problems such as that one’s email account will be deactivated or that the user has been charged for a large amount of money for a renewal of unknown subscription.

We also advise computer users to avoid suspicious websites that hardly have any reputation at all. This includes sites that distribute copyright-protected content illegally, or at least try to lure computer users into visiting them. Many malware variants hide in fake software cracks and setup files promoted via warez and crack sites that claim to provide fully functional premium software versions without the need to pay for a legitimate license key. The only confirmed way to access such programs safely is by visiting their developer’s or vendor’s website and purchasing a genuine copy.

Remove GGWQ Ransomware Virus and Decrypt or Repair Your Files

Now that you’ve learned how this computer virus works and how it spreads, we recommend that you take action to protect your computer – the sooner, the better. So if you have fallen victim to the described malware attack, we recommend you to follow the guidelines provided below to remove GGWQ ransomware virus. Do not forget to use RESTORO to repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.

Once GGWQ virus removal is finished, ensure that your system is protected by the antivirus’ software with real-time protection. Additionally, we advise that you report the incident to local police or an entity responsible for handling cybercrime cases; on top of that, you may want to change all passwords used on the compromised computer.

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RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

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GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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

Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.

Decrypt GGWQ files

Fix and open large GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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. GGWQ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like JJWW, HHEW, HHWQ, HHEO, GGEW (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 GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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 .GGWQ files?

You can only open GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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.